Ford Performance is gearing up for the world’s toughest endurance off-road race, the Dakar Rally, with an elite team set to compete in the Rallye du Maroc, a key precursor to the Dakar.
Leading the charge for Ford are legendary racers Matthias Ekström, WRX champion, and four-time Dakar winner Carlos Sainz Sr. Joining them are American off-road star Mitch Guthrie Jr. and two-time Dakar champion Nani Roma, creating a diverse and powerful lineup for the 2025 Dakar Rally.
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The Rallye du Maroc (Oct. 4-11, 2024) will be a crucial testing ground for the team, allowing them to fine-tune the Ford Raptor T1+ utility vehicle under real-world racing conditions.
Engineered in partnership with M-Sport, the Raptor T1+ is a high-performance rally raid vehicle designed to withstand the extreme desert environment, featuring advanced suspension and a powerful V8 engine.
Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, highlighted the team’s blend of seasoned Dakar champions and rising stars as a key strength. He emphasized that Rallye du Maroc is the final opportunity to push the Raptor T1+ to its limits before Dakar.
Ekström and Sainz will be a formidable pair, combining rally raid expertise and Dakar-winning experience. “I’m excited to join forces with Ford Performance and compete alongside a legend like Carlos,” said Ekström, looking forward to the challenge of the Rallye du Maroc and Dakar 2025.
The Raptor T1+ has already shown its potential, with Nani Roma achieving a strong performance at the Hungarian Baja in August. The team will continue refining their strategy and vehicle to prepare for Dakar 2025, where Ford aims to make a lasting impact in one of motorsport’s most demanding events.
Ford Performance’s foray into the Dakar Rally marks a new era for the brand, with a focus on vehicle development, driver preparation, and strategy refinement. The Rallye du Maroc serves as a critical step toward success in the Dakar dunes.
For more information on Ford’s motorsport efforts, visit Ford’s official website.
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