#Canada #Dakar Rally #Valcourt #Can-Am #Maverick R

Can-Am's Brave Return to the Dakar Rally

Can-Am, a prominent name in off-road racing and a subsidiary of BRP Inc., is gearing up for the 2025 Dakar Rally. This will mark the brand's first race using the innovative Maverick R platform, designed specifically to tackle the challenges of this legendary rally. Known for its grueling terrain and unpredictable conditions, Dakar Rally is considered one of the most difficult races in the world.

The New Challenger: Maverick R

The Maverick R is not just another side-by-side vehicle; it's a product of intense engineering and modification, aiming to redefine Can-Am's performance on the rally stage. With enhancements like an advanced tall-knuckle suspension, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a turbocharged three-cylinder Rotax engine, the Maverick R is well-suited to the rigorous demands of the Dakar environment.

For the 2025 Rally, Can-Am has partnered with South Racing to assemble a competitive team of four factory drivers, showcasing a blend of experience and raw talent. Among the notable competitors are:

• - Francisco 'Chaleco' Lopez: A seasoned driver from Chile, Lopez is a three-time Dakar UTV champion and brings a wealth of experience and success.
• - Sara Price: This talented American racer achieved a remarkable feat as a stage winner in the 2023 Dakar Rally, showing her potential against tough competition.
• - Hunter Miller: Recognized for his triumph in the 2020 King of the Hammers, Miller adds further robustness to the lineup.
• - Jeremias Gonzalez Ferioli: With three stage wins in his Dakar career, Gonzalez from Argentina completes this formidable team.

Expectations and Preparations

As the team gears up for a 12-day, 8000-kilometer odyssey starting January 3, 2025, every member is focused on optimizing the Maverick R’s performance to conquer this challenging race. According to Jean-Francois Leclerc, the Race Manager at BRP, the Dakar Rally is the highlight of their racing calendar. The team has worked tirelessly to ensure compliance with the FIA regulations while maximizing the vehicle's capabilities.

The 2025 Dakar Rally will be a historic moment for the Maverick R, being the first FIA-sanctioned appearance for this newly developed vehicle. The anticipation surrounding the Maverick R is palpable, especially after its success in earlier desert races, such as the Vegas to Reno and Baja 1000.

A Bright Future

Can-Am's previous successes in the Dakar Rally, with six consecutive wins since 2018 using the Maverick X3 platform, set a high benchmark. However, with the Maverick R bringing significant improvements and operational advancements, there’s a renewed hope for even greater achievements. The introduction of this advanced platform points towards a bright future in Can-Am’s quest for continued glory in off-road racing.

As the countdown to the Dakar Rally begins, fans and enthusiasts can stay updated on the team's progress through the Can-Am Off-Road social media channels, keeping their fingers crossed for this thrilling competition.

About BRP Inc.

BRP Inc. holds a prominent position in the powersports industry, focusing on creating innovative vehicles, propulsion systems, and boats. Their extensive product line includes Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft, and Can-Am vehicles. With operations spanning over 130 countries and a commitment to sustainability, BRP is continuously developing electric models for a diverse range of outdoor adventures. For more information, visit www.brp.com.

As 2025 approaches, the world eagerly awaits Can-Am’s next chapter at the Dakar Rally. Will the Maverick R rise to the occasion? Only time will tell.