A Remarkable Victory in Challenging Conditions
In a stunning display of skill and resilience, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing W2RC (TGR W2RC) emerged victorious in the 2026 Rallye du Maroc, marking the penultimate round of the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). The event showcased the impressive capabilities of the new DKR GR Hilux, which excelled in navigating the harsh desert terrains and unpredictable elements that characterized this challenging rally. Spanning a total of 1,508 kilometers, the race featured a variety of rugged landscapes, from rocky paths to breathtaking sand dunes, including a segment traversing the iconic Sahara Desert. This diverse route not only tested the endurance and skill of the drivers and navigators but also pushed the vehicles to their limits, creating an exhilarating atmosphere filled with drama and excitement.
As the final day approached, TGR W2RC held the first and second positions overall, but the team faced a formidable challenge during a high-speed 259 km stage that would ultimately determine their success. Seth Quintero, alongside navigator Andrew Short, delivered a masterclass in driving, clinching their second consecutive W2RC victory. Meanwhile, fellow team members Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings secured a commendable third place, allowing TOYOTA GAZOO Racing crews to dominate the podium by sweeping the top three spots, with João Ferreira and Filipe Palmeiro from TGR South Africa finishing in second place. Quintero and Short laid the groundwork for their victory during the opening stages of the rally, maintaining a strong lead and expertly navigating the challenging course as their competitors fell behind.
Challenging Stages and Strong Performances
The duo of Quintero and Short showcased exceptional skill, with their #203 DKR GR Hilux taking command on the penultimate day of the rally and successfully navigating the final stage to secure victory by a margin of 4 minutes and 23 seconds. This triumph propelled them into the lead of their respective World Championships, setting the stage for an intense showdown in the final event of the season. Lategan and Cummings faced their own set of challenges, including technical issues that hampered their performance on the first day. Nevertheless, they demonstrated remarkable tenacity, bouncing back with a Stage 2 win and finishing strong despite a dip in position later in the rally. The resilience exhibited by both teams is a testament to their commitment and the robust performance of the DKR GR Hilux.
Despite their struggles, Akira Miura and Armand Monleón, driving the #204 DKR GR Hilux, managed to recover from setbacks caused by technical difficulties, finishing the rally in 30th overall. Their experience during this grueling five-day event provided valuable insights and confidence as they look to improve in future races. As the teams prepare for the final showdown in Abu Dhabi, Quintero leads the World Championship standings by 14 points, while TGR W2RC trails the leaders by 46 points, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the season.
As reported by newsroom.toyota.eu.
