According to website DirtFish, the two-time World Rally Champion is close to signing a deal to take the helm of a Ford Ranger. Sainz, 61, clinched his fourth Dakar Rally victory earlier this year.
In January, Sainz was still representing Audi, but the brand decided to withdraw from desert rallies, leaving “El Matador” on the market. This week, Sainz has been competing in Portugal with the X-raid team, driving a Mini, but the plan is to switch to Ford.
“There was a chance to do Portugal. So, why not? It will give me fresh input from a T1+ and, finally, if I am going to join Ford it will bring good info to know another car before jumping in the Ford,” Sainz told DirtFish.
“I think we are getting closer with Ford and we have deep discussions now. I think, I hope, we can close the deal soon.”
Sainz also raced for Ford during his rallying career from 2000 to 2002. A three-year stint with M-Sport brought Sainz two World Championship bronzes. Now, a return to the “blue oval” seems likely.
“More than 50-50, for sure. Much. First we need to finalize the deal, which I hope is in the next month, then as soon as the car is ready, we would start testing,” Sainz summarized.
Sainz is expected to drive the Ford Ranger for the first time at the Morocco Rally in October. The race traditionally serves as a dress rehearsal for January’s Dakar adventure. Although Sainz leads the World Rally-Raid Championship before the season’s third round in Portugal, he does not plan to contest the title to the end.
“I won’t do Argentina, so it would be difficult. Basically, I think I would have to win here in Portugal and win, if we go, in Morocco and then see,” Sainz said.
