Impressive Performance in Morocco
The Repsol Toyota Rally Team has successfully navigated the challenges of the 2026 Morocco Rally, finishing with commendable results. Isidre Esteve and his co-driver Txema Villalobos secured the 19th position in the Ultimate category and 22nd overall, showcasing a consistent improvement throughout the five days of competitive racing. The team covered over 2,500 kilometers behind the wheel of the Toyota DKR GR Hilux, marking Esteve's first competitive outing since the previous Dakar in 2026.
Esteve and Villalobos utilized the Morocco Rally as an opportunity to refine the Toyota DKR GR Hilux, which is powered by renewable fuel developed by Repsol in their Technology Lab, along with the latest generation lubricants from the multi-energy company. This time, the team experimented with a new electronic configuration that yielded positive feedback from Esteve. "We tested a new electronic setup that worked well for me. We were able to continue refining it until the last kilometer, and the overall balance of the rally is very positive," the driver from Lleida expressed.
Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Confidence
The journey to this achievement was not without its hurdles. The Moroccan leg did not begin as smoothly as the Repsol Toyota Rally Team had hoped. During the initial two stages, Esteve and Villalobos had to contend with a power delivery issue. However, the team's collective effort was crucial in resolving this setback. From that point forward, the Toyota DKR GR Hilux performed at its best, allowing the duo to experiment with various suspension and electronic configurations. They focused on optimizing the power delivery to ensure Esteve could maximize the engine's performance with precision through his adapted driving controls. This process enabled the Lleida-based driver to gradually build confidence and prove that, without setbacks, he can compete within the top 20.
"I am very pleased with the result, the commitment of the entire team, and the sensations I take away from this experience. I am completely confident that we have the car ready for the January event. Our mechanics have done an extraordinary job, and the engineers from Toyota have also been incredibly helpful," Esteve praised.
As they progressed through the overall standings, the duo gained confidence with the DKR GR Hilux, allowing them to compete among the top 20, including many drivers they will face again in January. With this event, the Repsol Toyota Rally Team has completed a rigorous test ahead of their major goal. After days of intense work in Morocco, the team returns home with a 19th position in the Ultimate category and a wealth of kilometers and information that will further enhance the Toyota DKR GR Hilux, ensuring thorough preparation for the Dakar Rally 2027.
As reported by prensa.toyota.es.
