Dakar 2026 Stage 11: Ford’s Unstoppable Trio and the Impact of Lategan’s Exit
The excitement at Dakar 2026 reached new heights during Stage 11, where Ford achieved an remarkable podium sweep with a stunning 1-2-3 finish, spearheaded by the tenacious Mattias Ekström. the swedish racer demonstrated extraordinary skill and resilience as he navigated the challenging landscape of this year’s rally, further establishing Ford’s stronghold in the competition. Though, not all was smooth sailing; South African competitor Henk Lategan encountered notable mechanical troubles that have effectively removed him from title contention. With only a handful of stages left to race, the competitive atmosphere is intensifying as teams strive for victory in one of motorsport’s most demanding events.
Mattias Ekström Leads Ford to Triumph in Stage 11
in an impressive exhibition of driving prowess and strategic navigation, Mattias Ekström emerged victorious in Stage 11 of Dakar 2026. His relentless speed and tactical acumen secured him a decisive win, highlighting his expertise on rugged terrain. This achievement not only reinforces his status as a leading contender but also marks a significant resurgence for Ford within this fierce competition. The brand’s engineering brilliance combined with effective strategy has proven triumphant on this arduous course.
Conversely, other racers faced formidable challenges during this stage; notably Henk Lategan struggled with mechanical failures that forced him out of contention entirely. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature inherent to the Dakar rally-where unforeseen obstacles can arise at any moment. The podium results underscored Ford’s robust lineup and consistent performance throughout the event:
| Position | Driver | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mattias Ekström | Ford |
| 2 | Teemu Suninen | Ford |
| 3 | < td >< strong >Gus Greensmith< / strong > td >