Sainz Sr. powers to early lead in Dakar rally

The 2024 Dakar Rally is underway in Saudi Arabia, and Carlos Sainz Sr. is off to a strong start.

After Saturday’s shock stage 1 win by Belgian Guillaume de Mevius, Sainz and co-driver Lucas Cruz took control of proceedings on Sunday onboard their works Audi.

The pair finished the second test P8, over 17 minutes behind Sainz’s Audi teammate Stephane Peterhansel, but de Mevius’ low-key performance on the day allowed the 61-year-old Spaniard to power ahead in the overall classification.

Ahead of Monday’s 733 km adventures, Sainz leads local hero Yazeed Al-Rajhi by 1m51s while Prodrive’s Sebastien Loeb is third over 4 minutes adrift.

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.