South Africa’s only Dakar winner has had a long and storied career, but it isn’t done yet. Following his departure from the Gazoo Racing rally raid team, the veteran has opted to stay in the cockpit of Mzansi’s best selling bakkie with #TeamHiluxRallyRaid.
Image: #TeamHiluxRallyRaid
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One of the country’s most prized motorsport athletes, 53-year-old Giniel de Villiers started his motorsport career in the late 1990s in the South African Touring Car Championship. Since then, a transition from circuit to off-road rallying in the early 2000s culminated in competition at the Dakar Rally. His crowning achievement came in 2009, when he won the event overall for Volkswagen, making him the first and only South African to do so.
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De Villiers has been a consistent top contender in Dakar ever since, with numerous podium finishes and top-10 results across various manufacturers, including Volkswagen, Toyota, and Nissan. He’s been a central figure in Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Dakar efforts, helping to develop the Hilux into a rally-winning machine and acting as a mentor to younger drivers. His story with the Hilux isn’t over yet since he has now signed with #TeamHiluxRallyRaid.
The team couldn’t be more thrilled: “Having Giniel on board is like adding a turbocharger to our team. His experience and skill are unparalleled, and we know he’ll push us to new heights.” Concluded by Fouché Blignaut, #TeamHiluxRallyRaid driver.
Giniel shares the enthusiasm, stating, “#TeamHiluxRallyRaid’s passion and energy is contagious. I’m excited to join the team and contribute to their success. The team’s passion, energy and dedication to off-road rallying align with my own values, and I’m looking forward to working together to achieve great results.”
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Giniel will make his debut with #TeamHiluxRallyRaid at the SA Safari Rally in Sun City from 18–24 May 2025. The team encourages fans to stay tuned to their social media channels for behind-the-scenes action, race updates, and maybe a few surprises along the way.
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