Carlos Sainz

Sainz’s impact was felt beyond titles—he established Spain as a rallying powerhouse and brought precision to an often-chaotic sport.

• Toyota Celica GT-Four ST165/ST185: Brought him both WRC titles; reliable, balanced, and built for championship contention.
• Lancia Delta HF Integrale: Brief stint in 1993 with the iconic Italian marque during a period of intense manufacturer rivalry.
• Subaru Impreza 555: Rejoined the title fight in the mid-1990s with this nimble, turbocharged AWD platform, scoring major points for Subaru.

Sainz's adaptability across varied platforms underlined his ability to extract pace from both raw power and finely tuned balance.

Carlos Sainz was a master tactician, often avoiding unnecessary risks while maintaining top speeds. His methodical pacenote system and commitment to physical preparation made him a role model for aspiring drivers. Throughout the 1990s, he brought a professional and structured approach that influenced how teams and competitors approached rallying. He left the decade as one of the sport’s most respected figures, setting the standard for the modern WRC driver.

Sainz spent most of the 1990s partnered with co-driver Luis Moya. Their partnership was among the most enduring and successful of the decade. Known for flawless communication and mutual respect, the duo became a blueprint for modern rally teams. Moya’s sharp calls and Sainz’s composure under pressure were key to their continued success across multiple teams and championship campaigns.