Conquering the Tough Terrains of Dakar Saudi Arabia, Ford Captivates Motorsport Fans Across the Region
Building on its strong motorsport heritage in the region, Ford Performance proudly welcomes world-renowned rally and off-road driver Mattias Ekström to its team for the 2025 Dakar Rally, completing its driver lineup. Ekström, a two-time DTM champion and World Rallycross champion with extensive rally raid experience, will join Mitch Guthrie Jr., Nani Roma, and Carlos Sainz Sr. in driving the Ford Raptor T1+ in this grueling motorsport event.
Ford Performance is dedicated to showcasing its off-road capabilities in rally raid racing and global competitions, with notable entries and victories in events like the Baja 1000 and Tatts-Finke Desert Race. With the addition of Ekström, Ford is well-positioned for a competitive challenge at Dakar 2025 with the Raptor T1+.
Ekström’s diverse background, which includes success in rally, circuit racing, and off-road competitions, makes him an ideal fit for the Ford Performance Dakar team. Having participated in multiple Dakar Rallies, he is eager to lead the charge alongside his teammates in the T1 category.
Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance, stated, “Bringing Mattias Ekström into the Ford Performance family is a significant advancement for our Dakar program. His extensive experience in rally and off-road racing strengthens our already formidable team driving the Ford Raptor T1+. The Dakar Rally presents a unique challenge, but we have confidence in our lineup.”
Matthew Wilson from M-Sport remarked, “We’ve been following Mattias’ career for a long time, from his DTM days to the FIA World Rallycross and now the Dakar Rally. He has demonstrated exceptional speed and skill across all motorsport disciplines, and his performances in off-road racing have been equally impressive. We’re excited to work with him and his co-driver Emil, who both bring a wealth of experience.”
Mattias Ekström expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Joining the Ford Dakar program is incredibly exciting for me. Ford and M-Sport have developed a vehicle that looks, sounds, and drives remarkably well, and we share a common goal to win the Dakar Rally. I have attempted Dakar four times and feel prepared to aim for the top this time. The team has a deep well of knowledge and experience, supported by Ford’s long motorsport legacy, M-Sport’s proven track record, and an impressive driver lineup. I look forward to our first competitive outing with the Ford Raptor T1+ at the Rally du Maroc and later at the Dakar Rally. I’m determined to win, and I believe we have a successful future ahead.”
As excitement builds for the 2025 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia, Mattias Ekström’s addition to the Ford team has intensified anticipation. With a strong driver lineup and the powerful Ford Raptor T1+, motorsport enthusiasts across the Kingdom and beyond eagerly await this thrilling race.
