Ford unveils new rally Raptor T1+ for 2025 Dakar campaign
Ford Performance and M-Sport have developed a new version of the rally Raptor T1+ for this season in preparation for the 2025 Dakar Rally, which will mark the start of Ford's campaign in this iconic event.
Ford had already participated in the 2024 Dakar, primarily a test run. Although the drivers achieved decent results, the main goal was to gain experience and observe the competition. The cars used were not the latest models; they featured bodies from the previous generation Ranger. The real sporting debut will take place in 2025.
Ford has unveiled the current version of the rally car, which does not resemble a factory model but at least references the look of the Ranger. It's uncertain whether it looks more like the Ranger or the F-150, but the vehicle has been named the Ford Raptor T1+. The Ford brand will join manufacturers like Toyota and Dacia in next year's Dakar, competing in the world's longest rally.
The vehicle will be powered by a V8 engine, a 5-litre unit based on the Coyote design. The suspension is an independent system supported by a tubular structure. Behind the new Ford Raptor T1+ wheel will be four teams of drivers and co-drivers, including rally veterans Carlos Sainz Sr. with co-driver Lucas Cruz and Nani Roma with co-driver Alex Haro. Additional teams are still in preparation.
The hired drivers are very experienced Dakar competitors. In addition to his performances in the WRC, Carlos Sainz excels even more in desert rallies. He is the winner this year (driving Audi) and also won the Dakar in 2020 (driving Mini), 2018 (driving Peugeot), and 2010 (driving Volkswagen).
Nani Roma has not achieved as many victories, but his experience is undeniable. He won the Dakar for the first time on a KTM motorcycle in 2004. Ten years later, he claimed victory for the Mini team in a car.
One of the significant elements of the rally effort is Red Bull's support. For years, Red Bull has been the largest sponsor of the best teams in the Dakar Rally.
Plan for 2024
Ford has outlined its program for this year after its recent debut at the Goodwood Festival. Participation in selected rallies will prepare the car for Dakar.
The new car's first performance will take place on August 8-10 in Baja, Hungary. This rally differs significantly from Dakar, as it mainly takes place on winding, narrow tracks. In October, the Ford Raptor T1+ will compete in the Rally of Morocco, which closely resembles the Arab routes of Dakar. The Dacia Sandrider will debut with Sebastien Loeb and Nasser Al-Attiyah at the wheel in this rally.
