Carlos Sainz Sr crashed during Stage 2 at Dakar Rally 2025 which is currently taking place in Saudi Arabia, hampering the defending champion’s hopes of clinching another win this year.
The incident happened during the crucial 48-hour Chrono marathon stage of the event known for its grueling conditions and challenging terrain.
Carlos Sainz Sr crashed at the 327-kilometer mark as he was navigating a sand dune when his Ford Raptor experienced a dramatic rollover resulting to substantial damage.
Fortunately, both the four-time Dakar champion and his co-driver Lucas Cruz emerged unscathed from the incident, but the damage to their vehicle has raised concerns about their competitive edge in the remainder of the rally.
Dakar Rally 2025 commenced on January 3 and is set to run until January 17, covering a total distance of approximately 7,737 kilometers. This year marks the sixth consecutive year that Saudi Arabia has hosted this iconic event.
The rally features a total of 12 stages with the 48-hour Chrono marathon stage being particularly demanding as it prohibits teams from making repairs at designated camps overnight.
Instead, competitors must rely on their skills and resourcefulness to navigate through challenging terrains without mechanical assistance.
Sainz had entered the second stage of the rally in promising form, having finished eighth in the opening stage. However, as he approached midday during the marathon stage, things took a turn for the worse.
Carlos Sainz Sr crashed while navigating through a sandy area at the exit of a dune when his Ford Raptor flipped over, leaving him stranded in the desert. The rollover was captured on video by the rally organizers, revealing significant damage to the rear of the vehicle.
Despite this setback, Sainz’s determination shone through. After initially stalling post-crash and with assistance from his teammate Mitch Guthrie Jr., Sainz managed to restart his vehicle and continue racing.
However, he lost approximately 23 minutes due to the incident, which severely impacted his position in the overall standings. As competitors are not allowed to work on their vehicles during this stage, Sainz’s hopes for a strong finish were significantly hampered.
READ ALSO: The Ultimate Endurance Test :Dakar’s 48-hour Chrono Stage explained
The Carlos Sainz Sr crash not only poses a challenge for his immediate performance but also raises questions about his ability to contend for a fifth title at Dakar Rally 2025.
The damage sustained by his Ford Raptor is substantial, and while he has resumed racing, it remains uncertain how much longer he can maintain competitive speeds given the extent of repairs needed.
Reports indicate that Sainz currently sits around 20th in the overall standings, a stark contrast to his aspirations of reclaiming the championship title he won last year at age 61—making him the oldest winner in Dakar history.
The Dakar Rally is renowned for its unpredictable nature and extreme conditions that test both drivers and vehicles alike. This year’s route traverses diverse terrains including sand dunes, rocky paths, and gravel roads, making navigation critical for success.
Despite the scary Carlos Sainz Sr crash, his experience as a seasoned competitor will be vital as he attempts to recover from the incident. His resilience and experience could play a crucial role in overcoming this early hurdle in what is expected to be a highly competitive event.
