Ford Performance Assembles Strong Team For Rallye Du Maroc Ahead Of Dakar Rally

Mattias Ekström and Carlos Sainz Sr. are set to lead Ford's charge at the Rallye du Maroc, driving the new Ford Raptor T1+. This event is a precursor to the Dakar Rally, where Ford Performance aims to excel. The Raptor T1+ showcases Ford's top off-road engineering with its advanced suspension and powerful V8 engine, built for extreme conditions.

Ford Performance has assembled a strong team for the 2025 Dakar Rally, including WRX champion Ekström and four-time Dakar winner Sainz. They join Mitch Guthrie Jr., an American off-road expert, and Nani Roma, a two-time Dakar champion. All drivers have prior experience in Dakar competitions.

Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc
Ford Gears Up for Dakar with Rallye du Maroc

The Rallye du Maroc will be vital for refining the Ford Raptor T1+ before the 2025 Dakar Rally. This event provides a real-world testing ground to enhance the vehicle's performance under rally conditions. Ekström and Sainz will tackle Morocco's challenging terrain in specially designed Ford Raptor T1+ vehicles.

Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, stated, "Our goal has always been to build a diverse and powerful team, and with the additions of Mattias and Mitch, we’ve achieved that." He emphasized their blend of champions and emerging talents ready to maximize the Raptor T1+'s potential.

The Raptor name is synonymous with off-road prowess, embodying durability and power in tough races. In August, Nani Roma showcased the Raptor T1+'s capabilities at the Hungarian Baja by achieving the fastest overall time among competitors. This performance underscores Ford's commitment to off-road excellence.

Matthew Wilson from M-Sport highlighted the importance of Rallye du Maroc for ongoing development: "The experience we gain from Rallye du Maroc will be critical as we continue to refine the truck for Dakar 2025." With experienced drivers like Ekström and Sainz, they are well-positioned for high-level competition.

A New Era for Ford Performance

Ford's participation in Dakar 2025 marks a new chapter as they aim for success in one of motorsport's toughest challenges. Their team combines seasoned champions with promising newcomers, focusing on vehicle development and strategic planning through events like Rallye du Maroc.

Ekström expressed his enthusiasm about joining forces with Sainz: "Joining Ford Performance for both the 2024 Rallye du Maroc and the 2025 Dakar is an amazing opportunity." He looks forward to competing alongside Sainz in the Raptor T1+, viewing Rallye du Maroc as an ideal preparation for Dakar.

Ford Motor Company is headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. It aims to create a better world where everyone can move freely and pursue their dreams. The company offers innovative vehicles across various segments while providing financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company.

Article Published On: Thursday, October 3, 2024, 21:02 [IST]
Read more on: #global #ford
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