Carlos Sainz’s father, four-time Dakar winner Carlos Sainz Sr, has revealed that he talks with his son about Audi, with him knowing the German manufacturer so well.
Sainz Sr is an Audi driver and won them their first ever Dakar rally last week, whilst he also became the oldest driver to win what is regarded as the toughest competition in the world
At 61 years old, Sainz Sr is showing no signs of slowing down, although it’s currently unknown if Audi will be entering the Dakar in 2025 due to their preparations for Formula 1.
Audi are, of course, joining F1 in 2026, by merging with Sauber to create a works team.
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The German manufacturer are currently working on their power units, with Sainz Sr having no doubts that Audi will be a success in F1.
He points out “how seriously they take every project” and that failure isn’t an option.
“Audi is always a certainty [in terms of being successful],” said Sainz Sr, as reported by F1i.com. “After all, I know how seriously they take every project.
“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.”
Sainz Sr’s son has been linked with a move to Audi more than arguably any other driver on the grid.
His current Ferrari deal is set to expire this year and he’s expressed his intent on knowing his future for 2025 before the new campaign gets underway.
Reportedly, the 29-year-old wants a two-year extension but the Italians only want to give him a one-year deal for 2025.
The latter would open up the doors to move to Audi in 2026, with Sainz’s father admitting that the German manufacturer are discussed when in his home.
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“We all know that Formula 1 is a special world, and I have a lot of respect for Audi,” Sainz Sr added. “In my eyes, it’s just a matter of time before they succeed in F1.
“I don’t have a crystal ball, but the moment Audi decides to enter F1, they already command a lot of respect from me with that.
“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.”