Carlos Sainz Withdraws from Dakar: FIA Forces His Retirement, Here’s Why

The Federation has forced Carlos Sainz Sr., rally legend and father of the F1 driver, to withdraw: no repeat of his 2024 victory

There’s disappointment in the Sainz household, though this time it has nothing to do with the younger Sainz, whose move to Williams awaits judgment in the coming weeks. The disappointment stems from Carlos Sainz Sr.’s retirement from the 2025 Dakar Rally following a severe accident on the first day of the event.

The reason? After the accident on the opening day, Sainz admitted, “Winning the Dakar with this car is impossible, and the goal now becomes trying to win a few stages.” That goal proved unachievable, and after another challenging day, the decision to head home was made.

Ford, the manufacturer Sainz races for, announced late yesterday evening that they would withdraw from the competition due to the extensive damage sustained: “After the damage sustained by car number 225 in the early stages of the 2025 Dakar Rally, we have decided, in accordance with FIA regulations, to withdraw the vehicle.”

The Words of the Protagonist

A visibly disappointed Sainz Sr. shared on his social media: “With great sadness, we have to announce our departure from this year’s Dakar. This is racing, and sometimes it brings the toughest moments. Soon, we’ll head back home to recover both physically and mentally. Thank you so much for all your support” , the statement concludes.

Photo: Carlos Sainz