Alpine Supports Loeb’s Dakar History Bid Against Unexpected Rival
The Dakar Rally, known for its grueling challenges for both man and machine, is set to return to Saudi Arabia in January. While the event has shifted from its African roots to a new location, the essence of ultimate performance and robustness remains unchanged. Manufacturers like Toyota, Ford, Mini, and privateer Volkswagens are all gearing up to compete in the World Rally-Raid Championship’s Cars class.
Dacia, a small Romanian manufacturer known for its affordable and sustainable cars, has set its sights on making history at the 2025 Dakar Rally. With a mission to win and innovate, Dacia sees the Dakar project as a crucial outdoor technical laboratory. The brand aims to implement the learnings from the rally in its road cars, focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly practices.
Partnering with Prodrive and Aramco, Dacia is exploring sustainable fuel options and cutting-edge materials for its Dakar project. The team, led by technical director Philip Dunabin and team principal Tiphanie Isnard, is pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance to compete with established manufacturers.
A Strong Three-Pronged Line-Up
Dacia’s three-car entry boasts an impressive line-up, including five-time Dakar winner Nasser Al-Attiyah, rally legend Sebastien Loeb, and rising star Cristina Gutierrez. The drivers have been actively involved in the project’s development, providing valuable feedback and insights to enhance performance.
While Loeb and Al-Attiyah take the spotlight, Gutierrez’s performance during testing has earned her respect within the team. The squad’s diverse line-up aims to challenge traditional notions of Dakar success and showcase the brand’s commitment to excellence.
Alpine’s Assistance to Realize Dacia Dreams
With support from Alpine Racing, Dacia has access to a wealth of motorsport expertise and resources to bolster its Dakar efforts. Dunabin and Isnard, both Alpine Racing team members, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the project, ensuring that Dacia’s ambitions are backed by a strong technical foundation.
Can Dacia Conquer the Challenge of Dakar?
As Dacia prepares to tackle the harsh terrains of Saudi Arabia, the team remains focused on reliability and performance. While the recent 1-2 finish in Morocco showcased the car’s speed, the team is working tirelessly to address any potential issues and ensure a seamless Dakar experience.
Despite the success in Morocco, the team remains vigilant and humble, recognizing that the Dakar Rally is a formidable challenge that demands precision, endurance, and unwavering focus. With the ultimate goal of making history at the Dakar Rally, Dacia’s journey is one of determination, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.
