Ford Performance is stepping up its game in off-road racing, announcing its entry into the 2024 Rallye du Maroc with a brand-new Ford Ranger T1+ rally truck. This event is not just a test run, but a crucial step in Ford’s preparations for the 2025 Dakar Rally, one of the world’s most demanding motorsport challenges. The team will be led by an impressive lineup of experienced drivers, including rally veterans Mattias Ekström and Carlos Sainz Sr., who are ready to take on the grueling Moroccan desert in this cutting-edge off-road machine.
The Ranger T1+ represents Ford’s latest in off-road technology and engineering. Built specifically for endurance rally racing, the T1+ boasts advanced suspension systems, a high-performance V8 engine, and a design that’s tailored to endure the punishing environments of rally raids. This will be Ford’s chance to fine-tune the vehicle under real-world conditions ahead of the 2025 Dakar Rally, often dubbed the world’s toughest off-road race.
“The Rallye du Maroc is a vital proving ground for the Ranger T1+,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports. “We’ve invested heavily in this program to ensure the Ranger can take on the brutal conditions of the Dakar. Having drivers like Mattias and Carlos at the helm puts us in a strong position.”
A Star-Studded Lineup –
The Ford Performance team for the Rallye du Maroc features some of the biggest names in off-road racing. Mattias Ekström, a World Rallycross champion, and Carlos Sainz Sr., a four-time Dakar Rally champion, bring a wealth of experience and skill to the team. They will be joined by Mitch Guthrie Jr., an American off-road star, and Nani Roma, a two-time Dakar winner. Each driver has a deep understanding of rally raid racing, making this Ford’s most formidable lineup to date.
“Joining Ford Performance is an incredible opportunity, especially with a truck as capable as the Ranger T1+,” said Ekström. “I’m excited to test it in Morocco and push it to the limit. Racing alongside Carlos is a huge honor, and I believe together we can really make an impact.”
Sainz echoed Ekström’s enthusiasm: “The Ranger T1+ is a serious contender. I’ve competed in many vehicles, but this one feels special. The Rallye du Maroc will give us the opportunity to push it in real race conditions.”
Testing in Morocco’s Extreme Conditions –
Rallye du Maroc, scheduled to run from October 4-11, 2024, is known for its diverse and challenging terrain, which makes it a perfect setting for vehicle development. The event covers hundreds of miles of rocky trails, sand dunes, and rough desert landscapes — the kind of environment where the Ranger T1+ is designed to thrive.
“Rallye du Maroc will be a critical test for both the vehicle and the team,” said Matthew Wilson, M-Sport Program Director. “We’ve been working on refining every detail of the Ranger T1+ in collaboration with Ford Performance, and this race will allow us to see how it holds up against some of the harshest conditions imaginable.”
M-Sport, Ford’s longtime rally partner, played a pivotal role in the development of the Ranger T1+. The partnership leverages M-Sport’s motorsport expertise to build a rally truck that can withstand the extreme rigors of competition, particularly in the unforgiving terrains of the Dakar Rally.
Eyes on Dakar 2025 –
Ford’s entry into the 2025 Dakar Rally is a significant step for the brand as it looks to leave its mark in the rally raid world. With the Ranger T1+ at the heart of their campaign, Ford Performance is aiming for nothing less than success. The Rallye du Maroc is a crucial part of this journey, allowing the team to iron out any kinks before facing the even greater challenge of Dakar.
“We’re focused on constant improvement,” Rushbrook said. “The Rallye du Maroc will give us the data and experience we need to make sure the Ranger T1+ is ready for Dakar 2025. The competition is tough, but we’re confident in our team and our truck.”
As Ford Performance gears up for its first full Dakar campaign, fans and competitors alike will be watching to see how the Ranger T1+ fares in Morocco. With a combination of advanced engineering, skilled drivers, and a relentless focus on performance, Ford aims to prove that it can take on — and conquer — the toughest races in the world.
