Sainz senior escapes punishment after 'help' from his son

Carlos Sainz senior has escaped a penalty. His son was in fact near his car during the race, but was not allowed to help. The Spaniard did, but the stewards turned a blind eye this time.

Three-time Dakar winner (including '08 CE Rally) Carlos Sainz paused briefly in the desert for repairs. He did the repairs to his car with his co-driver, but from a distance, his son and Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz was watching. Indeed, the rally legend's son wanted to be present at the 2023 Dakar Rally for once and flew along in a helicopter.

After the repairs, however, footage showed Carlos Sainz closing the door of his father's car. This is officially against the rules, as participants in the Dakar Rally have to do everything themselves. However, the F1 driver's father got away with it.

Indeed, the stewards ruled that Sainz junior's action was not requested or initiated by the participant. Therefore, it is not considered a penalty. Nevertheless, the stewards do point out the responsibility of father and son, as they are seen as prominent figures and should set an example to the rest.