Ford and M-Sport Gear Up for Dakar Rally 2025 with the Raptor T1+

Every year, the Dakar Rally stands as one of the ultimate tests of off-road racing. From January 3-17, 2025, Ford Performance, in collaboration with M-Sport, will face the challenge of Saudi Arabia’s grueling desert terrain with the Raptor T1+, competing in the rally’s prestigious T1+ category. Over 5,000 miles of unforgiving terrain await, spread across 12 stages that span from Bisha to Shubaytah. With unpredictable weather and landscapes, the Dakar Rally demands both precision and resilience, and this year, the Ford team is ready to deliver, showcasing its commitment to durability, strength, and cutting-edge technology.

“The Dakar Rally is the pinnacle of off-road racing, and it’s where legends are made,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance. “With the Raptor T1+ and our exceptional team of drivers, we’re not just here to compete—we’re here to showcase the strength, durability, and technical innovation that Ford stands for. This is a milestone moment for Ford Performance and our partners at M-Sport, and we’re ready to take on the challenge.”

The Raptor T1+ is purpose-built for the toughest challenges of Dakar’s prestigious T1+ category. Equipped with a Ford Coyote-based V8 engine, advanced FOX suspension, and a lightweight yet durable chassis, the Raptor is engineered for maximum performance in extreme conditions. After extensive testing, it’s primed to take on the brutal heat and rugged terrain that defines Dakar.

Ford’s 2025 Dakar team features an exceptional lineup of drivers, each bringing unique expertise to the table:

– Carlos Sainz Sr.: A four-time reigning Dakar champion and motorsport legend known for his precision and experience.

– Mattias Ekström: A versatile driver with success in rallycross, DTM, and Dakar, known for his adaptability and technical skills.

– Mitch Guthrie Jr.: A rising star in American off-road racing, with victories at events like King of the Hammers.

– Nani Roma: A two-time Dakar champion in both motorcycle and car categories with invaluable strategic depth.

At the heart of Ford’s Dakar effort is its partnership with M-Sport, a leader in rally racing engineering. Together, Ford and M-Sport have developed the Raptor T1+, combining decades of racing experience with state-of-the-art technology.

“There has been a huge amount of effort gone into the project and we can’t wait to finally start the event,” said Matthew Wilson, M-Sport program director. “We have a fantastic driver lineup and our learnings from the testing and Rallye Du Maroc in October should mean we are as prepared as we can be for the huge challenge coming our way. There are some very exciting elements to Dakar 2025 with the 48 Hour Chrono and finishing in the empty quarter so it will certainly be a true test of endurance.”

Only time will tell if the Ford team and the Raptor T1+ are truly up to the challenge of this year’s Dakar Rally. For all of the latest news updates about Ford racing and motorsports, make sure you continue to read our blog here at Haldeman Ford!