Raptor T1+ Ready to Dominate the Dakar Rally
Ford’s Raptor T1+ is engineered to conquer the challenging landscapes of Dakar, exemplifying state-of-the-art design and unmatched durability
In the rugged landscapes of Saudi Arabia, the Dakar Rally stands as the ultimate test of off-road motorsport each year. In 2025, Ford Performance and M-Sport will make their mark in the T1+ category with the specially designed Raptor T1+ and a talented lineup of drivers.
For more than forty years, the Dakar Rally has been a symbol of resilience for both man and machine. From January 3-17, participants will face nearly 5,000 miles of grueling terrain. Divided into 12 stages stretching from Bisha to Shubaytah, each segment pushes the limits of what’s possible, with drivers and co-drivers receiving their route just moments before they embark, all while navigating extreme weather and challenging landscapes.
“The Dakar Rally represents the zenith of off-road racing, a place where legends are forged,” remarked Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance. “With the Raptor T1+ and our outstanding team of drivers, we’re not merely participants—we aim to demonstrate the strength, durability, and cutting-edge innovation that Ford embodies. This is a significant milestone for Ford Performance and our collaborators at M-Sport, and we are fully prepared to embrace the challenge.”
Ford's 2025 Dakar initiative is driven by a team of motorsport champions, each bringing their own exceptional skills to the table:
Carlos Sainz Sr.: The four-time reigning champion of the Dakar Rally and a legendary figure in motorsport, he blends years of expertise with an unwavering commitment to precision
Mattias Ekström: Celebrated for his remarkable versatility in rallycross, DTM, and Dakar, Ekström's ability to adapt and his technical expertise stand unparalleled
Mitch Guthrie Jr.: An emerging American powerhouse, Guthrie Jr. showcases the future of off-road brilliance with triumphs in competitions such as King of the Hammers
Nani Roma: A two-time champion of the Dakar Rally, excelling in both motorcycle and car divisions, Roma's wealth of experience and strategic acumen add significant value to the team as he makes his comeback with the 2024 Ford Ranger T1
The T1+ category represents the pinnacle of FIA rally raid competition, featuring vehicles specifically engineered with production-based engines. The Raptor T1+ is designed to excel in this arena. Equipped with a high-performance Ford Coyote V8 engine, state-of-the-art FOX suspension, and a lightweight yet sturdy chassis, this vehicle is primed to withstand the searing heat, harsh terrain, and relentless challenges of the Dakar. Extensive testing, both in and out of competition, has transformed the Raptor T1+ into a formidable racing machine.
At the heart of Ford's Dakar initiative lies a powerful alliance with the rally racing specialists at M-Sport. This collaboration blends years of expertise with an unwavering quest for excellence, resulting in a vehicle designed to conquer the grueling challenges of Dakar. Together, Ford and M-Sport have crafted a machine that truly embodies the spirit of rally-raid.
Matthew Wilson, M-Sport's program director, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “A tremendous amount of work has gone into this project, and we are eager to kick off the event. With an incredible lineup of drivers and the insights we've gained from our testing and the Rallye Du Maroc in October, we feel well-prepared for the monumental challenge ahead. Dakar 2025 promises thrilling features like the 48 Hour Chrono and a finish in the empty quarter, making it a genuine test of endurance.”
Nick Cavanaugh | @Car_Sick_Nick | All Roads Lead to The Motor City
