Loeb returns to Dakar rally

Frenchman tested with private Toyota Overdrive team

Nine-time rally champion Sebastian Loeb, who finished second in the Dakar rally in 2017 and third in 2019 with Peugeot, may return to the biggest rally raid next year. According to the Belgian Le Soir, the Frenchman has already tested the Overdrive buggy with which Red Bull participated in the race last year.

“A few weeks ago, Sebastian joined a test session with one of our T3 cars – those little buggies that competed at the Dakar in 2020,” said Overdrive boss Jean-Marc Fortin. “Dakar with a prototype capable of fighting for victory. And there are not many of them,” adds Forten.

At the same time, Loeb commented on representatives of the Belgian SudPress group that “thanks to the experience gained in four races, I can fight for first place if I'm driving a competing car.”

Loeb's involvement in the Dakar Overload should not conflict with his WRC program, although the Monte Carlo Rally traditionally begins immediately after the classic desert game. However, it is unclear if the nine-time champion will continue to compete in the World Cup as his current contract with Hyundai expires at the end of this season.

As of this year, the Dakar rally is being held in Saudi Arabia, but during 2021, ASO organizers are negotiating with a second host country in the Middle East or Africa.