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

Can-Am Maverick R Triumphs at Dakar Rally 2025

In a remarkable performance during the 2025 Dakar Rally, Can-Am, the esteemed brand from BRP Inc., achieved an impressive second-place finish along with an extraordinary ten stage victories. The event highlighted the capabilities and durability of the Maverick R in the harshest of competitive environments.

Stage Victories and Key Performances

South Racing's Francisco "Chaleco" López led the Can-Am Factory team's charge, securing five stage wins, a record in the T4 Side-by-Side Vehicle (SSV) Class. His teammate, Sara Price, alongside co-pilot Sean Berriman, also demonstrated commendable skill, winning three stages despite their withdrawal from overall contention due to early-stage issues.

Other notable performances included Jeremías González Ferioli, who faced setbacks but managed to claim victories in stages seven and eight, and rookie Hunter Miller, who concluded the grueling rally with a noteworthy tenth-place finish.

Overcoming Challenges

The rally, spanning 8,000 kilometers over twelve days in the unforgiving Saudi Arabian landscape, is renowned as a supreme test for both drivers and machines. Throughout the competition, the Can-Am team adapted to a series of unpredictable challenges.

Jean-Francois Leclerc, BRP's Race Manager, expressed pride in the team's achievements, remarking on their ten-stage wins and overall performance. He emphasized the resilience displayed throughout the race, stating, "This race always presents unique and unpredictable challenges, and I’m proud of how our drivers, team, and partners at South Racing adapted and persevered throughout the rally."

Chaleco López's Journey

Chaleco López started the rally strong, finishing second in the prologue. However, he encountered issues during the challenging 48-hour Chrono stage, temporarily compromising his position in the overall standings. Displaying remarkable determination, he regrouped to collect stage victories consecutively, finishing with a total time of 61 hours, 19 minutes, and 15 seconds, securing his place as runner-up in the T4 SSV Class.

Reflecting on his experience, López said, "This was our first time racing the Maverick R at Dakar. The first week was tough, but the vehicle felt solid, which gave us confidence to continue performing excellently throughout the stages. This achievement marks a fantastic start with a solid foundation to build on for future races."

Highlights from Other Team Members

Sara Price, driven by her performance in the previous year, aimed for an overall win but faced obstacles early in the race. "I’m grateful to have such a great team supporting me. Even though we encountered bad luck this year, we never gave up, and it’s been an unforgettable experience," she shared.

On the other hand, González Ferioli noted, "Despite setbacks, we learned a lot as a team. Winning two stages was bittersweet because we aimed for the podium, but we returned stronger overall."

Hunter Miller's Tenacity

First-time Dakar competitor Hunter Miller showcased incredible grit throughout, finishing tenth overall. Miller stated, "I’m relieved to have completed every kilometer. Dakar has been the most challenging race I’ve ever participated in, but I’m excited to refine my skills for next year’s rally."

The Maverick R's Performance

The Maverick R, featuring advanced suspension design and powered by a turbocharged three-cylinder Rotax engine, demonstrated remarkable performance across the sandy and rocky terrain. Its debut at the Dakar Rally has set the stage for future competitions, with the team leaving Saudi Arabia with valuable insights and a drive for further excellence in the upcoming year.

To summarize, the 2025 Dakar Rally has not only highlighted the competitive spirit of the Can-Am team but also showcased the Maverick R's capability to withstand one of the world's toughest tests. The team’s accomplishments lay a promising groundwork for their future endeavors in this iconic race.