Sainz reacts to historic Dakar Rally victory with Audi

Carlos Sainz Senior has reacted to his historic Dakar Rally victory with Audi.

The Spaniard clinched the win on Friday as the curtain fell on the Saudi Arabian-based event to become the oldest-ever winner at 61 years of age.

Sainz's win was famous in more ways than one as Audi took the victory in an electric-powered car - the first time it has been done in Dakar's history.

The win marked Sainz's fourth at the Dakar Rally, with his previous triumph coming at the 2020 edition.

Sainz Snr is the father of Ferrari Formula 1 driver Carlos and has enjoyed a long and successful history in off-track competition.

Having added his latest achievement to his resume, Sainz said: “I am very happy for Audi, the many fans of the brand and my fellow countrymen.

“This victory means a lot to me. It’s my fourth victory with the fourth different brand. The team has developed a very special concept with which we are the first in the Dakar Rally. Only Audi was brave enough to take this risk.

“I’m happy that we’ve made history with it. And in one of the toughest editions of this rally that I have experienced.

“My family is here, as is the whole Audi family. Thanks to the brand, to Rolf Michl and Sven Quandt, who believed in us and made this possible. And thanks to Mattias, Emil, Stéphane and Edouard, who helped us so much. This is a great victory.”