Ford to enter 2014 Dakar

Ford will be represented in the 2014 running of the Dakar Rally after Team Ford Racing confirmed it would field two South African-build Ford Rangers in the event next year.

The new machines are being prepared by Pietermaritzburg-based Neil Woolridge Motorsport, with assistance from Ford Motor Company's Global Product Development group. Logistics will be handled by German-based South Racing.

The driver line-up is made up of both international and local contenders including South American native Lucio Alvarez and South African Chris Visser.

"We are extremely proud to be sending these South African-built Rangers to the 2014 Dakar," Jeff Nemeth President and CEO of Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa, said. "Dakar is the ultimate test of man and machine and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to participate with a phenomenal team comprised of local and global expertise."