The factory team of MM Technology kicked off its campaign at Rallye du Maroc. Martin Macik, Frantisek Tomasek, and David Svanda continue their preparation for Dakar 2026, starting the event with victory in the prologue and earning the first starting position for Stage 1. Before the rally began, their brand-new truck, nicknamed Joseph, was tested by drivers Sébastien Loeb and Seth Quintero, who both got behind the wheel.

Loeb, Quintero and the Thrill of Driving a Rally Truck

Before the start of the competition, MM Technology, in cooperation with the organizer A.S.O., hosted a unique activation. Martin Macik handed over the keys to his latest Dakar truck to two rally stars — Sébastien Loeb, a motorsport legend, and Seth Quintero, the talented young American driver. Both had the chance to experience what it’s like to pilot a full-spec Dakar truck. The goal was to show that the transition into the truck category can be easy and smooth and that the class itself offers plenty of excitement, even for competitors from other disciplines. Judging by the smiles on both drivers’ faces after the test, the mission was a success.

Five Stages of Hard Preparation for Dakar

The prologue featured fast, rough terrain with dips and ruts, but both the crew and the truck handled it flawlessly, confirming their strong form. Now the team faces five demanding stages covering a total of 2,310 racing kilometers, including dunes, fast sections, and navigational challenges. Rallye du Maroc 2025 runs until October 17 and serves as a key endurance test before the Dakar Rally.

“Today was really interesting. Within just a few kilometers, we climbed nearly 100 m in elevation and came across some serious holes, but Joseph worked perfectly. We clicked with the terrain and the truck, and now we’re really looking forward to tomorrow’s first full stage,” said pilot Martin Macik.