Short Description
Mattias Ekström is determined to conquer the Dakar Rally over the next 15 years, shifting from circuit racing to rally-raid with ambitions of victory in Ford’s new Raptor T1.
Read Time
4 minutes and 30 seconds
Main Article
Mattias Ekström, a two-time DTM champion, has declared his unwavering commitment to winning the Dakar Rally, one of the most grueling and prestigious motorsport events worldwide. In an interview, the Swedish driver shared his intent to keep competing in the Dakar for as long as it takes, saying, “I will keep fighting until I win it. Whether that takes one, two, 10, or 15 years, it doesn’t matter.” This powerful sentiment comes as Ekström transitions from Audi’s hybrid challenger to Ford’s new rally-raid project, the Raptor T1, after several challenging years with the RS Q e-tron program.
Ekström made his debut in the Dakar Rally in 2021, taking on the complex terrains and formidable competition that define this extreme rally-raid. In the last three years with Audi, he faced numerous technical challenges but still managed to secure four stage wins, showcasing his talent and tenacity against legends like Stéphane Peterhansel and Carlos Sainz Sr. The switch to Ford signifies a new chapter for Ekström, who hopes to leverage the Raptor T1’s performance as he strives for an elusive Dakar victory.
Citing the recent success of team-mate Sainz, who won the Dakar at the age of 61, Ekström humorously noted that he theoretically has 15 more years ahead to chase his Dakar dreams. “I have to see if I’m still as good,” he quipped, clearly relishing the challenge and motivation to improve further. Despite facing difficulties during his last rally, including a challenging mid-rally rest day, Ekström expressed optimism about the future, focusing on strategy and performance improvements for the upcoming events.
Moving away from Audi was a significant decision for Ekström, but his excitement about the prospects with Ford’s well-supported team only heightens expectations for the coming season. His experiences in other racing formats, including a strong showing in Extreme E, have given him valuable insights and experience that he aims to translate into success in the rally-raid world. Ford’s diverse roster, featuring accomplished drivers like Sainz and two-time champion Nani Roma, also bodes well for their collective pursuit of excellence in the rallying competition.
Short Summary
Mattias Ekström is ready to tackle the Dakar Rally for up to 15 years, recently joining Ford’s Raptor T1 project. His dedication reflects a determination to achieve not only personal victory but also to contribute to a strong team dynamic alongside renowned rally legends, underscoring the competitive spirit of the Dakar Rally.
