Carlos Sainz, a two-time World Rally Champion and four-time Dakar winner, has recently signed with Ford for the 2025 Dakar Challenge. This marks his return to Ford, where he will be driving Ford Performance’s Ranger Raptor in his pursuit of a fifth Dakar title. Sainz has a long history with Ford, having won back-to-back Spanish Rally Championships with the team in 1987 and 1988. This will be the fourth time he will be driving for Ford.
Joining Sainz in Ford’s 2025 Dakar team is two-time Dakar champion Nani Roma. The team will also include two additional drivers, whose identities will be revealed later. The Ford Ranger Raptor Dakar machine is currently undergoing testing, led by Matthew Wilson, the son of M-Sport founder Malcolm Wilson. Matthew has been instrumental in the design and development of the 2025 Ranger Raptor.
M-Sport director and Dakar team manager, Malcolm Wilson, expressed his excitement about having Sainz and Roma on board. He highlighted the immense experience and success that Sainz brings to the team, emphasizing the significance of Sainz’s decision to return to Ford and M-Sport after many years.
Sainz, a legendary figure in off-road racing, is no stranger to the Dakar and rally raid events. He has competed in the Dakar since 2006 and has secured victories in four different cars. Sainz expressed his enthusiasm for the new Dakar Rally project with Ford, highlighting his long-standing history with the team and M-Sport.
The return of Sainz to Ford and M-Sport has generated a lot of buzz in the motorsport community. Fans are eagerly anticipating his performance in the upcoming Dakar Challenge, as he aims to add another title to his illustrious career. With a strong team backing him, including the likes of Nani Roma, Sainz is poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 Dakar event.
Overall, Sainz’s partnership with Ford for the 2025 Dakar Challenge signifies a reunion of two iconic names in the world of motorsport. The collaboration between Sainz, Ford, and M-Sport promises an exciting and competitive campaign in the upcoming Dakar event. Stay tuned for more updates on Sainz’s journey towards his fifth Dakar title with Ford.