Dakar: Sainz senior completes preparations for the rally raid

      Carlos Sainz, a four-time Dakar Rally winner, is finishing preparations for another supermarathon that is expected to be the last of his illustrious career.

      Today the father of the Williams driver told fans that he had undergone the final medical examination, which confirmed that he is in excellent physical condition. It should be recalled that Sainz Sr. turned 63 this past year.

      Carlos Sainz: "Hello everyone! As usual, at this time of year before heading out on the Dakar route I undergo a comprehensive check of my physical condition. You have to make sure the 'engine' is working normally, that everything is set up as it should be.

      The last days before the start drag on incredibly slowly; it feels like there are twice as many hours in the day. Mostly that's because I want to get to the start of the rally-raid as soon as possible. In any case, all the load tests are behind me, and I'm glad that all the indicators are at the same level as a year ago. So I'm satisfied, and now we'll see what we can do this time. It's time to give it everything!"

      The Dakar will start on January 3, and Sainz Sr., together with Lucas Cruz, his long-time co-driver, will take the start behind the wheel of a factory Ford Racing race off‑roader carrying number 225.

      In 2026 the Ford Raptor prepared in the T1+ category became 50 kg lighter; it has improved performance and even the aerodynamics were refined, although you might think aerodynamics aren't that important for an off‑roader. The car is equipped with a 5‑liter V8 engine based on the Coyote Darkhorse, it has a steel tubular frame and carbon body panels.

      The drivetrain is full‑time all‑wheel drive, with a 6‑speed sequential gearbox. Front and rear suspension are double wishbones; each wheel has two shock absorbers and springs with adjustable stiffness. It is also worth noting that the fuel tank holds 520 liters.

      Factory Ford Racing is entering four crews; besides Carlos Sainz, the cars will be driven by his compatriot Nani Roma, Swedish driver Mattias Ekström and American driver Mitch Gatri.

      But the same machinery is also used by other teams; among them this year Russian drivers Denis Krotov and Konstantin Zhiltsov are competing in a Ford Raptor, representing the British M‑Sport Rally Raid Team.