Dacia Sandriders Gear Up for Dakar 2025 with Successful Initial Testing Phase
The Dacia Sandriders team has completed its initial testing phase, gearing up for the ultimate motorsport challenge, the Dakar, set for January 2025.
After a systems check at Millbrook Proving Ground in the UK, the team spent four days from 6 to 9 May at the Sweet Lamb testing complex in Wales. They then moved to Château de Lastours, France, for another four days of rigorous testing from 27 to 31 May. The three crews tested the Sandrider, equipped with BF Goodrich tyres, on rocky and demanding terrain.
Cristina Gutiérrez drove the Sandrider for two days in Wales before handing over to nine-time world rally champion Sébastien Loeb for further testing and development.
Multiple Dakar winner Nasser Al-Attiyah experienced the car for the first time at Château de Lastours over two days. Sébastien returned to the cockpit for one and a half days, with Cristina finishing the final testing in the afternoon.
Team principal Tiphanie Isnard confirmed that the initial testing phase exceeded expectations with minimal issues.
The team now prepares for a comprehensive test in Morocco from 28 June to 5 July. This test will simulate the terrain of Dakar, the opening round of the 2025 FIA World Rally-Raid Championship in Saudi Arabia from 3 to 17 January 2025.
Nasser Al-Attiyah (Qatar), driver of Dacia Sandriders, said, “Testing at Château de Lastours marked my first drive in the Dacia Sandrider. The car was easy to drive, fast, and strong. We covered 270 kilometres each day without issues and enjoyed it a lot. We are on track for the next tests, and I can’t wait for Morocco.”
Cristina Gutiérrez (Spain), driver of Dacia Sandriders, added, “Driving the Dacia Sandrider for the first time was incredible. I feel comfortable and am adapting well to the new car and category. Many important test days are ahead, but we are thrilled with the team’s work. We couldn’t ask for more and are proud of the car’s performance.”
Sébastien Loeb (France), driver, Dacia Sandriders, commented, “Testing has gone very well. I spent one day in the UK and two in France. We worked on the suspension and diff to find a balance, and I’m happy with the results. The engine performed well from the start without any problems. The new car looks promising, and I look forward to continuing testing in Morocco.”
Philip Dunabin, Technical Director, stated, “We completed a series of initial tests and are preparing for our first rally-raid environment test in Morocco. Everything has gone smoothly with no serious issues. We finalised the engine, worked extensively on the suspension setup, and reviewed transmission settings. We addressed minor problems with the crew’s installation and made necessary improvements. We are working hard to prepare for Morocco, and we are optimistic about continuing our Dakar preparations.”
This testing phase has set a solid foundation for the Dacia Sandriders, positioning them firmly for the upcoming challenges in Dakar 2025.
