Romain Dumas to tackle the Dakar in January
The 2010 Le Mans winner will head to South America with Mécénat Heart Surgery to take part in the legendary Dakar Rally in January.
Romain Dumas with the Buggy he will drive in the 2015 Dakar Rally
Romain Dumas
Official Porsche driver Romain Dumas is indeed accumulating his appearances outside of circuit racing, from rallying to victory at the legendary hill climb event Pikes Peak with his own team. In the first days of 2015, Romain will add to his all-terrain experience, and for a good cause : he will compete in the Dakar with the Ecurie du Cœur (Team with Heart). The Alès native will drive a Buggy entered by Team MD Rallye Sport and fly the Mécénat Heart Surgery colors. In this first rally-raid appearance, his co-driver will be François Borsotto.
It’s a new sporting challenge for me, and for a good cause. - Romain Dumas
Apart from a friendly participation in the 24 Hours of Off-Road in Paris, Romain Dumas had never driven a Buggy in anger, but recently tested in the southwest of France with the Ecurie du Cœur and MD Rallye Sport. For the first time, Romain sat in the driver’s seat of the Optimus v.15 that he will pilot in the upcoming Dakar. It was a big discovery ahead of the South American routes the team will encounter this coming January.
"When I was presented the project, I have to say that I didn’t hesitate," he admits. "It’s a new sporting challenge for me, and for a good cause. I’m excited about the association. Racing to benefit children with heart issues and help promote Mécénat Heart Surgery is obviously a win-win. The will to fight and solidarity are two important values in my eyes and I will do my very best to make them proud. It’s an all new adventure for me and I’m looking at this Dakar with a lot of humility. I’m expecting some difficult days, but the goal is clear : finish. I can’t hide that the sporting challenge is exciting. I’ve always been intrigued by the Dakar but have never had the opportunity to go. I’ve tested a few kilometers with the Buggy and I was a little…baffled. The feeling in the car is completely different from what I’m used to. That said, I enjoyed it. It will be an interesting experience and I thank Porsche for allowing me to race in the Dakar. "
The first stage of the 2015 Dakar will be held on January 4, with the finish scheduled for January 17, in Buenos Aires. Three countries will see action : Argentina, Chile and Bolivia.
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