McRae Signs For Nissan
Published: 18th November 2003
Colin McRae (GB), former British and World Rally Champion, who is entering the Dakar for the first time. He will be joined by Swedish co-driver Tina Thorner, who is competing in the Dakar for the 4th time.
Ari Vatanen (FIN), four times winner of the Dakar, former World Rally Champion and Winner of the World Cup for Cross Country Rallies. He will be accompanied by co-driver and compatriot Juha Repo who competes in the Dakar for the first time.
Giniel de Villiers (RSA), winner of this year’s Rally of Morocco and placed fifth overall in last year’s Dakar. He will be accompanied by fellow South African Francois Jordaan, who has been navigating for Giniel for 3 years.
Yves Loubet (FRA), winner of the Rally of the Pharaohs and five times French Rally Champion. He will be driving alongside the experienced and professional Pascal Maimon, who came in 5th in last year’s Dakar alongside de Villiers.
The four crews in the superproduction category will be driving the new 2004 version of the Nissan Pickup. The new vehicle has been significantly redesigned for improved aerodynamics, ergonomics and dynamic performance.
The Nissan Rally Raid Team will be managed by newly appointed team manager Gilles Martineau. Gilles has solid experience of motorsport team management, having spent 12 years with Ford, where has was the Director of Motorsport Activities.
The Dakar Rally is one of Nissan’s global motorsports priorities. In 2002, the company committed to a 4-year rally raid programme, allowing it to demonstrate its 4x4 expertise and promote its brand image worldwide.
