Ford Performance celebrated an unforgettable debut at the 2025 Dakar Rally, clinching a third-place podium finish in the Ultimate category with the Ford Raptor T1+. Mattias Ekström and Emil Bergkvist led the charge, claiming third place overall after an impressive performance through the brutal Saudi Arabian desert.
Ekström’s team also secured a decisive Stage 11 victory in the Empty Quarter, with multiple stage podiums, including a P2 finish in the Prologue and a P3 in Stage 5. The team’s standout moments included Nani Roma’s commanding comeback win in Stage 10 and a gritty performance from Carlos Sainz Sr., who fought back after an early roll with help from teammate Mitch Guthrie Jr.
Guthrie, competing in his first Dakar Rally, finished a strong 5th overall, further showcasing the Ford Raptor T1+’s speed and durability. “We have proven that the Raptor has the speed and durability to compete in the toughest environments on the planet,” said Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance.
With cutting-edge engineering and advanced FOX shocks, the Raptor T1+ demonstrated its ability to withstand the extremes of the Dakar, setting the stage for the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship season.
