An Intriguing Detail at M-Sport’s Evaluation Center Showcase, Toby Price and Sam Sunderland are teaming up for Dakar 2025, and a strong lineup of American competitors

Dakar 2025: A New Era of Competition

Two New Factory Teams and U.S. Racers Set to Shake Up the Race

The upcoming Dakar 2025 promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Two new factory teams—Ford and Dacia—enter the battle, determined to make their mark. On top of that, an impressive lineup of talented U.S. racers will compete for top positions, adding to the anticipation. The race will also feature an intriguing partnership: two legendary bikers, Toby Price and Sam Sunderland, will compete in the same car—a move sure to catch Dakar fans’ attention worldwide.

Ford and M-Sport: Navigating Challenges in the Desert

Behind the Scenes of Technical Setbacks During the Morocco Test

In my recent coverage of the Morocco race, I highlighted the performance of the Ford Raptor and the Dacia Sandrider. I noticed something interesting this week: M-Sport and Ford Performance have been quiet about their technical challenges during the event. Carlos Sainz had to skip a day, and Mattias Ekström dealt with a door. These setbacks weren’t widely reported, but they may give us a glimpse into the team’s struggle to fine-tune their machines before Dakar.

The Ford Raptor Mystery: What’s Beneath the Surface?

An Intriguing Detail at M-Sport’s Evaluation Center Showcase

M-Sport recently showcased its technology at its Evaluation Center, displaying four Ford engines and a Ford Raptor straight from Morocco. While the Raptor itself was impressive, I noticed an odd detail—a mat placed under the vehicle. I asked about it in the comments on LinkedIn, but unsurprisingly, there’s been no response. Could this small, overlooked detail be a clue to something more extensive behind the scenes? As we edge closer to Dakar, every piece of information becomes more critical.

Two Dakar Legends Swap Bikes for the Toyota Hilux T1+

Toby Price and Sam Sunderland, two legends of the Dakar bike category, are transitioning to cars for Dakar 2025. Price will drive, and Sunderland will navigate as they take on the race in a Toyota Hilux T1+ for Overdrive Racing. This shift recalls Stéphane Peterhansel’s legendary transition from bike to car. This move is even more notable because Price and Sunderland—who have dominated on two wheels—will now race as a united team. Sunderland is preparing for the race back home, while Price will participate in the Baja 1000 this November, a bold move to sharpen his skills before Dakar.

American Racers to Watch: A Showdown in the UTV Class

Familiar Faces and New Talent Represent the U.S.

Dakar 2025 will also feature a mighty American presence in the UTV class, which is bound to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Racers like Hunter Miller, Sarah Price, Brock Heger, and Pablo Copetti are ready to battle it, representing factory teams like Can-Am and Polaris and private efforts. These athletes boast a long list of wins and achievements. With Seth Quintero and Mitch Guthrie Jr. competing in cars and Carter Klein making his mark in the bike category, there will be no shortage of exciting moments for American fans. This year’s race will be a valid showcase of U.S. talent.

Conclusion: A Race Like No Other

As the countdown to Dakar 2025 begins, the anticipation continues to build. With two new factory teams, legendary bikers entering the car category, and fierce competition among American racers, this year’s rally promises to deliver unforgettable moments. Whether you’re rooting for the seasoned veterans or the fresh faces, Dakar 2025 is set to be a race like no other. Get ready for a thrilling ride across the desert—because this one will make history.