Ford Eyes Dakar Challenge with a Pair of Entries in the Rallye du Maroc

Mattias Ekström and Carlos Sainz Sr. will lead Ford's ambitions in the new Ford Raptor T1+

The world of off-road racing is abuzz with excitement as Ford Performance gears up to tackle the grueling Rallye du Maroc, a crucial precursor to the prestigious Dakar Rally. The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as some of the best drivers in the business prepare to push the limits in the unforgiving desert terrains of Morocco.

Leading the charge for Ford Performance’s team are two illustrious names in the off-road racing realm – Matthias Ekström and Carlos Sainz Sr., revered for their extraordinary skill and unmatched determination. Joining them are the formidable Mitch Guthrie Jr. and the seasoned Nani Roma, forming a powerhouse quartet of drivers with an impressive track record in Dakar competitions.

“Our goal has always been to build a diverse and powerful team, and with the additions of Mattias and Mitch, we’ve achieved that,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “We have a blend of Dakar champions and rising stars, all equipped with the capability to push the Ford Raptor T1+ to its full potential. The Rallye du Maroc is our last chance before Dakar to push man and machine to the limit and we intend to do just that.”

Rallye du Maroc is not just another race; it serves as a crucial testing ground for the Ford Raptor T1+, the pinnacle of Ford’s off-road engineering prowess. Engineered in collaboration with M-Sport, the Ford Raptor T1+ is a purpose-built rally raid racer armed with cutting-edge technology to navigate the harshest of environments with finesse and precision.

In a strategic move, Ekström and Sainz will team up to conquer the challenging Moroccan terrain in their Ford Raptor T1+ utility vehicles, a sight that promises to be a spectacle of skills, strategy, and sheer determination. Ekström’s proficiency in rally raid and circuit racing, combined with Sainz’s legendary victories in Dakar, sets the stage for an epic partnership that promises to leave spectators in awe.

“Joining Ford Performance for both the 2024 Rallye du Maroc and the 2025 Dakar is an amazing opportunity,” Ekström said. “I’m looking forward to competing alongside a legend like Carlos in the Raptor T1+. Rallye du Maroc will be the perfect test for Dakar, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together.”

The Ford Raptor T1+ is a marvel of engineering, featuring top-of-the-line suspension, a potent V8 engine, and unparalleled performance tailored for the extreme demands of desert racing. The recent performance at the Hungarian Baja by Nani Roma showcased the Raptor T1+’s prowess, setting the benchmark with the fastest overall time amongst competitors, underscoring Ford’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

As the Rallye du Maroc unfolds, off-road racing enthusiasts around the globe are in for a treat, witnessing firsthand the relentless spirit of the Ford Performance team as they test their mettle against some of the most treacherous terrains in the world. Stay tuned as Ekström, Sainz, Guthrie Jr., and Roma embark on this extraordinary journey, showcasing the heart, soul, and relentless drive that define the world of off-road racing.

The Raptor nameplate, a symbol of off-road excellence, lies at the heart of Ford’s ambitions in this arena, carrying a rich legacy of strength and resilience into the most challenging races on the planet.

Matthew Wilson, the program director at M-Sport, highlighted the importance of their approach: “The insights we gather from Rallye du Maroc will be vital as we enhance the truck for Dakar 2025. With talented drivers like Mattias and Carlos at the helm, we are confident in our ability to compete at the highest level.”

Ford Performance’s participation in Dakar 2025 marks a transformative chapter for the brand, as it aims for triumph in one of the toughest motorsport events worldwide. By combining experienced Dakar veterans with emerging off-road talents, Ford is gearing up for a formidable rally raid campaign. The team will maintain its focus on vehicle innovation, strategic improvements, and driver training throughout the 2024 Rallye du Maroc, taking crucial steps toward their ultimate ambition: making a lasting impact in the sands of the Dakar Rally.