Dakar win fuels Audi's F1 ambition: Carlos Sainz Sr drops hint on son's future

The four-time Dakar champion not only etched his name in off-road history but also shed light on intriguing Formula 1 conversations within the Sainz household.

Audi, renowned for their meticulous approach to motorsport, not only dominated the treacherous terrains of the Dakar but also signalled their intent to storm the pinnacle of racing - Formula 1. 

The German marque are poised to enter the fray in 2026, absorbing the Stake team amid the anticipated introduction of new power unit regulations.

Amidst the Dakar celebrations, Sainz Sr, a pivotal figure in Audi's Dakar venture, unveiled a behind-the-scenes narrative involving his son, Carlos Sainz Jr, a prominent name in Ferrari's F1 stable. 

Sainz Sr confirmed, "Audi is always a certainty [to be successful]. I also know well what the famous German mentality means in practice, both the good sides and not-so-good sides, but we just have to have a lot of respect for the Volkswagen Group with Audi as part of it."

While acknowledging the distinct intricacies of Formula 1, Sainz Sr expressed profound respect for Audi's capabilities, foreseeing their inevitable triumph in the elite racing series. "Of course, it makes sense at Carlos' house to talk about what Audi can get done, all the more so because I am a member of that Audi family," he remarked.

As the motorsport fraternity eagerly anticipates the onset of the 2024 Formula 1 season, the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir stands ready to host the pre-season testing from February 23-25. Teams and drivers, rejuvenated after a hiatus, will unveil their machinery, offering fans a glimpse of the season's potential. 

Against this backdrop, whispers of a potential shift for Carlos Sainz Jr to Audi's F1 endeavour add an extra layer of intrigue to see what lies ahead in the future.

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