For Sainz, the Dakar will be between Mini and Toyota

Winner of the 2020 edition of the Dakar, Carlos Sainz puts his title on the line in Saudi Arabia in January. For the third time in a row, the three-time winner of the greatest rally-raid a fort à faire face aux quatre Toyota dont celle de son rival Nasser Al-Attiyah. Les 4×4 nippones débarquent en terres saoudiennes avec plusieurs améliorations notamment au niveau de la puissance.

« I think the race will be between Toyota and Mini. There are several Toyotas (four, editor’s note.) against only two Minis. Toyota talks about power and suspension improvements. We have seen in recent outings that they have improved. The battle against Nasser (Al-Attiyah) will be rough », predicts the Iberian.

For his third participation with Mini, Carlos Sainz expects an increase in power from his car after two first editions in constant progress. “ This is my third year with Mini. The first served as a focus. The second was excellent (key title, editor’s note.) and for the third the car is even better even if we were not able to try it much ».

If he thinks of a two-way battle between Mini and Toyota, the Spaniard is still wary of the Prodrive BRX cars. Although this Dakar is only the first for the British team, Carlos Sainz believes that Sébastien Loeb and Nani Roma can join the fight for final victory.

« The presence of Prodrive with Nani Roma and Sébastien Loeb will add competitiveness. They are two great drivers. The return of Loeb improves the quality of the field. In addition, Prodrive is capable of making a winning and reliable car. It's difficult to win for your first participation, although I'm not saying it's impossible. It is clear that despite all the tests carried out, surprises appear during the race. The rhythm is different ».