Dakar Rally mechanics sponsored by Mascot

On January 4 for the 37th time, the Dakar Rally set off in Buenos Aires.

It was the seventh time the Dakar Rally took place in South America. A total of 414 different vehicles in different categories registered for the race, with drivers covering more than 9,000km in total during the 14 day race.

Mascot has supplied clothing for Tim Coronel’s Dakar mechanics for several years running and this year was no exception. In fact, the mechanics specifically requested Mascot clothing again. The work they carried out during the race took place under some very special conditions and Mascot was proud to be their preferred supplier.

The requirements of a Dakar mechanic are high. Media manager for the Maxxis Dakar Team, Martijn van Oort said: “The mechanics have a tough job during the Dakar Rally. They get almost no sleep and are always working. When the work on the buggy is done, they are responsible for getting the truck with spare parts to the next destination on time, where they then have to build the workshop again. From there it’s just a matter of waiting for the vehicles.

“It’s important for them that their workwear is both comfortable and easy to work in. In South America, it is generally warm, but they are faced with all kinds of weather from the heat of the desert to the cold of the Chilean mountains (sometimes even snow). In Argentina, it can be quite wet, so it’s also important that they have clothes that dry quickly.

“Overall, it is extremely demanding work so their workwear must be durable. Of course it is also important for sponsors that the mechanics look presentable. The Dakar Rally is broadcast worldwide so they will be in the spotlight throughout the race.”

Mascot’s sponsorship included trousers, shorts, T shirts, softshells and footwear for the entire team of mechanics.

Starting from Argentina’s capital, motorcycles, trucks and buggies/quads will travelled west through Chile up to Bolivia and then return to Buenos Aires.

The race finished on January 17.