1 minute read
Ultimate test for man and machine
Le Dakar versus Dakar Classic
The 2022 edition distinguishes itself from previous editions. This year it seems that there are two Dakar rallies, each with their own charm. One the one hand, there is the modern Dakar rally (let’s continue to call this “Le Dakar”). Le Dakar started back in 1978 and has evolved to be the fastest, toughest and most dangerous rally in the world.
Advertisement
Not as fast, but certainly still a big challenge, we have the Dakar Classic, which pays respect to the heritage of the Dakar rally. Although last year about 21 participants started the adventure in this new form of rally in their classic cars, this year can be seen as the birth year of the Classic Dakar rally. No less than 142 vehicles will participate in the Dakar Classic, comprising a caravan of 301 competitors. Will the Dakar Classic become more popular than Le Dakar?
The statistics of Le Dakar are still very strong. The official list of starters for “Le Dakar 2022” during the administrative checks and technical scrutineering consisted of 409 racing vehicles: including 144 bikes (of which 33 will race in the Original by Motul category); 20 quads; 87 (T1) cars; 2 (T2s), as well as 48 (T3) lightweight prototypes; 47 (T4) SSVs; 56 trucks (T5), and lastly 5 vehicles in the Open category. Two-hundred-and-six Competitors will be participating for the first time on the Dakar, whilst 121 riders, drivers and co-pilots with “Legend” status will be taking part for the 10th time or more. The contingent of ladies has also significantly increased, totaling 28, including three 100% female crews. As for the nationalities represented, France is predominant with 170 participants, ahead of Spain (74) and the Netherlands (64).
