Spanish iconic driver Carlos Sainz claimed his fourth Dakar Rally victory on Friday. He won the final stage of the 46th edition of the Dakar, the fifth to be held in Saudi Arabia. By winning the event at the age of 61, he further cemented his legend and surpassed his record for longevity. 

His victory was all the more significant as it was achieved driving a hybrid car for the first time, thanks to the Audi project that placed its trust in the hands and knowledge of the Spanish driver. Carlos Sainz secured third place on the Dakar Rally's all-time wins list, drawing level with Finland's Ari Vatanen.

The most crowned figure in the Dakar's car competitions is the mythical France's Stephan Peterhansel, with eight victories to his name after winning the motorcycle competition six times. The Madrid-born driver is much closer to second place, held by Qatar's Nasser Al-Attiyah, with five wins. Will Sainz join him in 2025 at the age of 62?

Carlos crossed the finish line at the Red Sea in first place. He had no problems during the last 175 kilometres of the final stage. He was no longer under pressure from Frenchman Sebastian Loeb, who had been his main rival throughout the rally, but who ran into difficulties on Thursday and almost retired from the race after being in a favourable position. 

Sainz decided not to take any risks on the final day. He knew that crossing the finish line would secure his championship. It looked like Sébastien Loeb and Belgian Guillaume de Mevius would share the remaining podium places. But there was a clear winner at the top and the most emotional moment was when he celebrated it with his son, the Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr.