Ford has set its sights on the 2025 Dakar Rally with a key move: the incorporation of renowned pilot Carlos Sainz. With Audi's recent withdrawal, Sainz, the current Dakar champion, becomes the focus of attention for the Ford team. Known for his outstanding performances in rallying, including two WRC championships and four Dakar victories, Sainz is a valuable addition to Ford in their quest for success in one of the world's most challenging races.
Ford's approach is not only to recruit Sainz but also to strengthen its technical arsenal. The Ranger Raptor T1+ is in development, benefiting from the lessons learned in the current edition of the Dakar. Sainz's experience, who has triumphed with Volkswagen, Peugeot, Mini, and Audi, is crucial in adapting this vehicle to the demanding conditions of the Dakar.
This effort is the result of collaboration between Ford, M-Sport, and Neil Woolridge Motorsport. This year, with the help of experienced Nani Roma, they have gained valuable knowledge to fine-tune the Ranger Raptor, aiming to compete for victory in the next edition.
The outlook for Dakar 2025 is promising, with Dacia already announcing Sébastien Loeb and Nasser Al-Attiyah as the pilots of their Duster T1+. The addition of Sainz to Ford adds more excitement to this already intense competition, promising to be a battle among giants like Toyota and Prodrive.
Toby Price and Sam Sunderland will make the leap to cars on the Dakar 2025
The drivers will be looking for a new challenge in the car category after their success in motorcycles.
Mattias Ekström to compete with Ford in the Dakar 2025
Swedish driver joins Ford after leaving Audi
Audi and Mattias Ekström end partnership after 23 years
The Swedish driver bids farewell to Audi after a successful career in DTM, rallycross and Dakar.
Mitch Guthrie Jr. joins Ford for the 2025 Dakar
The Californian driver will make the leap to the Ultimate category, driving the Ford Raptor T1+ in the world's toughest rally.
