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FORD CONFIRMS NEGOTIATIONS WITH CARLOS SAINZ FOR DAKAR: "WE HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO CONVINCE HIM"

Malcolm Wilson, head of the oval brand's Dakar project, openly discusses his interest in having the Spanish driver.

The signing of Nani Roma in mid-2023 was a clear indication of their direction, as the Catalan driver is one of the most experienced in Dakar - both on two and four wheels - and a guarantee when it comes to developing new rally raid prototypes. However, M-Sport NWM Ford wants more, and in an interview with Relevo, Wilson confirms they are in negotiations with several drivers who will be available when Audi concludes the third and final year of its daring electrified project after this 46th edition of the world's toughest rally. But their priority has a Spanish name and surname: Carlos Sainz Cenamor. Nevertheless, he is not the only interested party, as Relevo reported a few days ago.

Audi will depart after this Dakar, freeing up three top-level drivers. Have you considered them?
I think it's quite obvious. To be honest, nothing is finalized. But yes, of course. Obviously, I know Carlos very well from when he drove for us 20 years ago. We have had negotiations, but nothing is confirmed yet.
I want... it's quite simple. The goal is to have the best lineup of drivers we can have. So, as I mentioned, there's no doubt. We've been talking, but nothing is set in stone yet.

https://www.relevo.com/rallies/dakar/malcolm-wilson-carlos-sainz-ford-20240112055949-nt.html

📸 Red Bull Media Pool