With a rich history in motorsport, Ford is now setting its sights on one of the toughest challenges in the world—Dakar 2025. Could this be the dawn of a new ‘Ford era’ in rally raid racing?

Ford is unmistakably associated with the United States. The manufacturer is the pride of the country. Undoubtedly, one way it can demonstrate the capabilities of its cars is through sport.

Ford has a dedicated division, Ford Performance, focused on motorsport events. Ford Performance, in partnering with M-Sport, took part in WRC and NASCAR, and now it is conquering the Dakar rally raid.

The team prepared a Ford Raptor T1+ truck and called up legendary racers: Carlos Sainz, Nani Roma, Mattias Ekström, and Mitch Guthrie Jr.

When it comes to Dakar success, no driver has been more valuable to factory teams in the last decade than Carlos Sainz. El Matador won in 2018 for Peugeot, in 2020 for X-Raid Mini, and in 2024 – for Audi. No doubt, he will do everything to continue the streak.

Mitch Guthrie Jr. is another strong choice for Ford, especially considering the pride of having an American driver behind the wheel of an American truck. Guthrie Jr. already has a list of astonishing victories inside the United States (Baja 1000, Mint 400, etc.). He also scored stage victories during the Dakars 2020 and 2021.

If the Ford Raptor proves successful, it could deliver significant financial benefits to Ford. Today’s Dakar rally raid mainly runs on Toyota Hilux cars. A fast, reliable Raptor could lure new customers to Ford and convince racers to shift from the dominant Toyota Hilux. It could usher in a new era in the race.

Before the October 4thy du MOctober 11thlace in Morocco from October 4th till October 11th. After that, we can make some prognoses for the main off-road event in January. The team will also have a chance to make final adjustments. 

For Ford, Dakar 2025 is more than just a race—it’s a chance to showcase the relentless drive and innovation that has defined the company for decades. As they take on one of the world’s toughest challenges, they’re aiming to prove that American engineering can rise to any occasion.