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Carlos Sainz Jr. Tries Father’s Ford Dakar Raptor in Zaragoza Test

Ford Racing released video of the outing during Sainz Sr.’s build-up to a 2026 Dakar return.

BAKU, AZERBAIJAN - SEPTEMBER 21: Third placed Carlos Sainz of Spain and Williams gives a thumbs up on the podium during the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September 21, 2025 in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by Peter Fox/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The Williams F1 driver joined four-time Dakar winner Carlos Sainz Sr. at Zaragoza’s San Gregorio base, first riding shotgun before taking the wheel of Ford’s Raptor T1+.
  • Footage published by Ford Racing shows Sainz Jr. experiencing rally-raid pace as a co-driver and then driving on a rough gravel course.
  • He called the passenger role claustrophobic and extremely intense, described the ride as very physical, and said he could not endure more than about 20 minutes as a co-driver.
  • After swapping seats, he praised the Raptor T1+ as one of the best race cars he has driven and said the car inspired confidence, especially over bumps.
  • Sainz Jr. said he could see himself attempting the Dakar in the future, while Sainz Sr. continues preparations with Ford after retiring from the 2025 event and targeting 2026.