Sainz's Dakar 2026 Ride REVEALED! Can Ford's Raptor Win?!

Carlos Sainz, the legendary Dakar Rally driver, isn't slowing down anytime soon. He and co-driver Lucas Cruz have officially set their sights on Dakar 2026, and they're bringing some serious firepower to the Saudi Arabian desert: the Ford Raptor T1+ Evo. This isn't just a cosmetic upgrade; it's a thoroughly revamped machine designed to conquer the grueling Dakar course.

Sainz's Dakar 2026 Ride REVEALED! Can Ford's Rapto...

The announcement, made in Madrid, underscores Ford's commitment to off-road racing and specifically, their Dakar ambitions. Ford M-Sport is pulling out all the stops, fielding a formidable team of four Raptor T1+ Evos. Joining Sainz and Cruz (car #225) are returning veterans Matthias Ekström and Emil Bergkvist (#226), Nani Roma and Alex Haro (#227), and the rising stars Mitch Guthrie Jr and Kellon Walch (#228). With a roster like that, Ford is clearly in it to win it.

Let's be honest, a lot can happen between now and January 2026. But Sainz, a four-time Dakar champion, isn't one to back down from a challenge. This will be his 18th Dakar start, a testament to his dedication and skill. And Nani Roma? This will be his *29th* Dakar appearance! Talk about seasoned veterans. These guys have seen it all, and that experience is invaluable.

So, what's new with the Raptor T1+ Evo? The team has clearly learned a lot since the 2025 race. While the original Raptor T1+ showed promise, securing two stage wins and solid overall finishes, continuous testing in the World Rally-Raid Championship has informed a significant evolution. The biggest change? Weight reduction. They've managed to shave off a whopping 50 kilograms, a move that improves both performance and overall durability – crucial in a race as demanding as the Dakar. But it's not just about weight. New-generation FOX shock absorbers, a lighter and more impact-resistant Lexan windshield, and even the removal of side mirrors in favor of a camera system all contribute to a more refined and competitive package. Oh, and those new gull-wing doors? Pretty slick, and they offer better visibility and dust insulation – a huge plus in the desert.

According to Sainz, the year-long development process has been rigorous, with a relentless focus on improving every detail. "We are entering Dakar 2026 with more confidence," he stated. He emphasized the importance of reliability and performance across diverse terrains, suggesting that the team is confident they have a vehicle capable of winning. Sainz also pointed out that the increasingly level playing field in Dakar – where everyone essentially has similar power and tires – makes those subtle improvements in weight, suspension, and robustness even more critical. With so many strong contenders vying for the top spot in 2026, expect a nail-biting race to the finish.