19 January 2024 , 11:54
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Carlos Sainz Sr has become the oldest ever winner of the Dakar Rally at the age of 61.
It is the fourth time Sainz, who is the father of Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr, has won the gruelling race and he claimed a historic victory just one year after breaking his back in a horrific crash at the same event.
He was initially airlifted to hospital after suffering chest pains following the crash, but asked the helicopter to turn around and returned to race while his crew attempted to repair his car. Ultimately, though, he was unable to continue competing and flew back home to Spain where it was revealed he had broken his back in two places.
"On my return to Madrid from the Dakar Rally, the back pain I suffered after the incident of this year’s event persisted longer than usual," he wrote on social media at the time. "Following medical advice, I underwent further checks to assess in detail the extent of the injury.
"Unfortunately, the results haven’t brought good news because I fractured the T5 and T6 vertebrae. The good thing is that both vertebrae are stable and from this day on my priority will be to recover as soon as possible.
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"Thank you all for the love and support I have received over the last days. I will keep you updated." And Sainz has enjoyed a remarkable comeback at this year's Dakar Rally, finishing the final stage with a lead of one hour and 20 minutes.
Sebastien Loeb, a nine-time World Rally champion, was Sainz's closest rival until he suffered a major breakdown on Thursday which meant he ultimately finished third. Guillaume de Mevius clinched the runner-up spot.
Following his victory, Sainz paid tribute to his co-driver Lucas Cruz on social media. He wrote: "WE ARE CHAMPIONS!! I am lucky to have the best by my side! You have made a fantastic @dakar @LucasCruz74! This is all thanks to you!"
Sainz Jr has also been supporting his father from afar while he prepares for the new F1 season with Ferrari, having posted a touching message of support ahead of the final stage. "Although this year we aren't there physically, we are supporting you in every stage from home," he wrote.
"We are very proud of you, of seeing how you keep breaking barriers and outdoing yourself, defending the lead in the toughest rally in the world. Just a few more days to go!"