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Dakar 2025: American Racers Dominate the Spotlight in Historic Rally Push

Redação by Redação
January 9, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
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Dakar 2025: American Racers Dominate the Spotlight in Historic Rally Push

Mitchell Guthrie (USA) and Kellon Walch (USA) for Ford M-Sport are seen at the stage 1 of Rally Dakar 2025 in Bisha, Saudi Arabia on January 04, 2025. // Kin Marcin / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202501040279 // Usage for editorial use only //

The Dakar Rally, a global spectacle and the first major motorsport event of the year, has long been a proving ground for the world’s best off-road racers. Yet, for much of its storied history, American competitors remained a rarity. That narrative is rapidly changing, and the 2025 Dakar Rally marks a turning point with unprecedented American representation and success stories rewriting the script.

With 335 vehicles, 580 participants, and a record-breaking American contingent, this year’s Dakar showcases the depth of talent, innovation, and ambition coming out of the United States. From seasoned legends to rising stars, the American presence has evolved from an afterthought to a dominant force in the world’s toughest rally race.


A Slow Start for U.S. Competitors

Historically, American participation in Dakar was minimal, with the technology and expertise of the Southwest desert racing scene only sporadically crossing over. The late Rod Hall and his son Chad broke ground in 1996 as the first all-American team to finish Dakar, piloting red, white, and blue Hummers to a remarkable fourth and fifth in class.

Their success laid the foundation, but it was trailblazers like Robby Gordon and Darren Skilton who brought global attention to American capabilities. Gordon’s larger-than-life persona and technical innovations earned him stage wins in 2005 and a lasting legacy, while Skilton’s efforts introduced North American racers to Dakar’s grueling demands through events like the Sonora Rally, a key training ground for future competitors.


The Turning Point: American Victories

The game-changing moment came in 2020, when Ricky Brabec and Casey Currie became the first Americans to claim Dakar titles. Brabec’s triumph in the motorcycle category with HRD Honda and Currie’s UTV victory with Monster Energy-backed Can-Am shattered the status quo, proving that Americans could excel on Dakar’s unforgiving terrain.

Brabec’s journey continues in 2025, even as he battles back from a leg injury sustained at the Rallye du Maroc. Joining him in the motorcycle division are fellow Americans Skylar Howes, Mason Klein, and Jason Argubright, highlighting the country’s growing dominance on two wheels.


America’s Rise Across Categories

This year, the U.S. influence extends far beyond bikes. The Car category boasts an impressive lineup, including young phenom Mitch Guthrie Jr., piloting a Ford Raptor T1 developed with World Rally powerhouse M-Sport. Guthrie is joined by Seth Quintero, who rose through Red Bull’s youth program and continues to impress with his versatility and talent.

In the SSV division, the U.S. presence is equally formidable. Brock Heger, fresh off a SCORE Baja 1000 victory, makes his Dakar debut with Sebastien Loeb Racing, while trailblazer Sara Price returns with a Monster Energy-backed Can-Am after making history as the first American woman to win a Dakar stage.

Other notable American entries include Corbin Leaverton, Zachary Lumsden, and Craig Lumsden, who add depth to an already stacked roster.


Ford’s Radical Raptor and American Innovation

The 2025 Dakar Rally also marks the debut of Ford’s Raptor T1, a technological marvel wrapped in Red Bull-clad carbon fiber. Designed to dominate Dakar’s grueling stages, the Raptor’s cutting-edge features—double-wishbone suspension, Fox dampers, and 14 inches of wheel travel—have positioned it as a contender for the overall title. Ford’s commitment underscores the growing influence of American engineering in rally racing.


Why 2025 is Different

The U.S. surge at Dakar is no coincidence. Years of grassroots development, strategic partnerships, and trailblazing performances have culminated in this historic showing. Events like the Sonora Rally have provided invaluable experience, while iconic races like the Baja 1000 have honed the skills of many Dakar-bound drivers.

The American contingent’s diversity—ranging from seasoned veterans to young talents—reflects a country finally realizing its potential on the international rally stage.


A Global Audience, A National Impact

With more than 4,000 hours of television coverage reaching 190 countries, including the U.S. via Peacock and MAVTV, the 2025 Dakar Rally offers a unique platform to showcase America’s off-road prowess. For the next two weeks, the world will witness not just the grit and determination of its competitors but the depth and breadth of American talent reshaping this legendary event.


A New Era for Americans at Dakar

From Rod Hall’s pioneering efforts to Ricky Brabec’s trailblazing victories and the rise of young stars like Mitch Guthrie Jr. and Sara Price, the 2025 Dakar Rally cements America’s status as a force to be reckoned with. As the race unfolds, one thing is clear: the U.S. has arrived at Dakar, and it’s here to stay.

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