Sainz Sr. down again… but not yet out!

©Twitter

Carlos Sainz stumbled again on Tuesday's Stage 9 at the Dakar, the works Audi driver tumbling head over heels after just 6km after underestimating the steep opposite side of a dune.

With his electric RS Q e-tron looking pretty much the worse for wear, waiting for Audi's assistance to try and resume the stage seemed like a waste of time for the Spaniard who threw in the towel.

Furthermore, suffering from chest pain in the wake of the commotion, Sainz was airlifted to hospital in Riyadh to undergo a routine medical check-up.

But while in the air, the rally legend had second thoughts and ordered the helicopter pilot to turn around and take him back to his car!

The latest was that he had re-joined teammate Lucas Cruz and the pair were awaiting their assistance vehicle. Unless Sainz changes his mind again…

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.