Can-Am, the iconic brand of BRP Inc., has marked a significant milestone in the 2025 Dakar Rally, securing a second-place overall finish in the T4 Side-by-Side Vehicle (SSV) Class and achieving ten stage wins in one of the most demanding motorsport events in the world. This success highlights the toughness and performance of Can-Am’s Maverick R platform, which made its debut at the rally.
Leading the charge was Chilean racer Francisco “Chaleco” López, who claimed five stage victories—the most in the T4 SSV Class—en route to his second-place finish. López and co-driver Juan Pablo Latrach completed the gruelling 12-day, 8,000-kilometre race across Saudi Arabia with a total time of 61 hours, 19 minutes, and 15 seconds. Reflecting on the performance, López said, “Despite early challenges, we turned things around and showcased the Maverick R’s potential. It’s a solid foundation for future victories.”
The Maverick R’s performance was further demonstrated by Sara Price, who claimed three stage wins alongside co-pilot Sean Berriman. Despite encountering issues in the early stages that ruled her out of overall contention, Price praised her team’s resilience. “This year’s Dakar has been unforgettable. We progressed a lot and showed tenacity every day,” she said.
Another standout performance came from Jeremías González Ferioli, who, alongside co-driver Pedro Gonzalo Rinaldi, secured two stage wins and several podium finishes. Although early mechanical issues affected their overall classification, Ferioli remained optimistic. “We learned a lot this year and will return stronger. The Maverick R has tremendous potential,” he said.
First-time Dakar competitor Hunter Miller also made his mark, finishing in tenth place overall. Miller and co-driver Andrew Short consistently demonstrated their pace, achieving a fourth-place finish on stage four. Miller described the event as “the most challenging thing I’ve ever done” and expressed excitement about building on the experience in future rallies.
Can-Am Race Manager Jean-Francois Leclerc praised the team’s achievements: “The Dakar Rally presents unique challenges, and I’m proud of how our drivers and the South Racing team adapted and persevered. With ten stage wins and multiple podiums, the Maverick R has proven itself in the toughest conditions.”
The Maverick R’s advanced design, featuring tall-knuckle suspension, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and a turbocharged three-cylinder Rotax engine, was instrumental in the team’s success. Out of 12 stages, Can-Am racers captured ten wins, solidifying the brand’s position as a leader in off-road motorsport.
The Dakar Rally remains the ultimate test of endurance and engineering, and Can-Am’s strong debut with the Maverick R sets the stage for future success in this iconic event.