The exciting 2024 edition of the Dakar Rally kicks off, an event that annually brings together the boldest adventurers in motorsport. This year, the Ultimate category stands out, where competitors face not only nature but also the advanced technology of their vehicles. It's a spectacle of mechanical precision and human endurance, where each participant challenges their own limits.
At 21 years old, Seth Quintero represents TOYOTA GAZOO Racing. After conquering the T3 title in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship, he now debuts in the elite category with the Toyota GR DKR Hilux T1+. This vehicle, known for its robustness and adaptability, is ideal for the demanding rally terrains. Quintero, an expert in technical routes, promises to make the most of it.
Lucas Moraes and Giniel de Villiers, also from TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, are prominent figures. Moraes, third in his debut in the last Dakar, shines for his adaptation and navigation skills. De Villiers, winner in 2009 and the first African to achieve it, brings experience and a refined strategy for sandy terrains.
Guillaume de Mévius, from Overdrive's Hilux, enters the car class after a third place in T3 in the previous Dakar. His ability to adapt to more demanding categories will be crucial in this new challenge.
Nasser Al-Attiyah, Dakar veteran, competes with the Prodrive Hunter, aiming to make history. Known for his aggressive and tactical driving, Al-Attiyah excels in challenging terrains. His Prodrive Hunter, innovative in design and performance, could be his ace in the hole.
Sébastien Loeb, with Bahrain Raid Xtreme, is another standout competitor, seeking his first Dakar victory. Loeb, known for his success in the World Rally Championship (WRC), brings exceptional driving skills and great adaptability to different terrains. His vehicle, the BRX Hunter, is a testament to modern engineering with advanced capabilities across all terrains.
The Audi Sport team, with Carlos Sainz, Stéphane Peterhansel, and Mattias Ekström, competes with the Audi RS Q E-Trons. These cars, known for their sustainable technology and hybrid systems, offer performance and lower environmental impact. The combination of experience and cutting-edge technology positions them as strong contenders.
Nani Roma, a Dakar veteran, along with his co-driver Alex Haro, embodies the perseverance and passion of the event. With a track record of ups and downs, Roma brings a unique perspective and exceptional skills to face the challenges of the desert. On the other hand, Gareth Woolridge and his navigator Boyd Dreyer, from the M-Sport Ford team, represent the new generation. Known for their synergy and understanding, they aim to lead the team to new successes. Woolridge's audacity and Dreyer's precision form a promising combination for the demanding stages of the Dakar.
