Hero eyes 2017 Dakar entry, Santosh makes shock switch
Indian manufacturer Hero MotoCorp announced its foray into motorsport with Hero MotoSports Team Rally, hiring cross-country rider CS Santosh, who has made a surprise switch, for 2017 Dakar Rally.
Photo by: Hero MotoSports Team Rally
Santosh has competed in two editions of Dakar, with his most recent outing coming astride a Suzuki RMZ 450Z.
The Bangalore-based rider failed to finish the rally due to mechanical germlins, has switched camps, moving to Hero.
The announcement marks Hero’s entry into the cross-country rally scene in a strategic partnership with German off-road racing specialist Speedbrain GmbH.
The Indo-German team will be using an upgraded version of Speedbrain 450 rally bike in a variety of international events, before heading to Dakar in January, 2017.
The team will be spearheaded by Mr. Wolfgang Fischer, MD, Speedbrain, under the supervision of Markus Braunsperger, CTO, Hero MotoCorp.
Apart from Santosh, Hero will also field Portugese rider Joaquim Rodrigues, who has past experience in Supercross and Motorcross.
Upon the reveal, Santosh commented on the switch on his Facebook page. "I knew that one day it would finally happen, that day is here," he said.
"So grateful to all the people who have been part of my journey and supported my aspirations. I am so grateful to be part of this world class factory team with Hero MotoCorp.
"And having Mr Wolfgang Fischer as my mentor who I consider one of the best managers in the world! It's time to go to work and show up ready for Dakar Rally 2017," he added.
Speaking at the announcement, Pawan Munjal, MD, Hero MotoCorp Ltd., said: “In the recent past, we have rapidly expanded our global footprint and also made significant investments in enhancing our R&D capabilities.”
“Motorsport is a natural progression for us, as it will allow us to bring value-added products with top-of-the-line technology for our millions of customers.
"This initiative is also reflective of our consistent support to sports and sportspersons. I welcome Santosh and Joaquim on board and wish them all the very best.”
The new partnership will kickstart its journey later this month, taking part in the Merzouga Rally [part of Dakar series], to be held from May 21-27.
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