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May was a landmark for motorsport in South Africa - and a proud moment for the Ford family worldwide.
The country hosted its first-ever international Safari Rally, a round of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), where Ford’s M-Sport team put the Ranger Raptor T1+ to the test in truly unforgiving terrain. But for the Ford team in South Africa, the real victory came when rally legend Nani Roma brought the very same Raptor to the Silverton Assembly Plant for a once-in-a-lifetime employee experience.
On Monday, 26 May, fresh off the rally route, Roma and members of the global motorsport team were welcomed by cheering employees, a powerful performance from the Ford choir, and a wave of true South African spirit. It was a celebration of the people who make Ford great - and a moment of pure pride for the Ranger’s home.
Ford Motor Company, Africa, President Neale Hill captured the emotion of the day.
“You build the Ranger that has become a global icon. And while the Raptor isn’t built here, it’s still part of the Ranger family - and you are part of its DNA.”
Employees were treated to the thrilling sight, and roaring sound, of the purpose-built Ranger Raptor T1+, fitted with a T45 steel spaceframe, carbon fibre body panels, and powered by a 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine. Its race-ready setup includes an advanced Fox suspension with adjustable bypass dampers, designed to take on the world’s toughest off-road conditions.
Roma, a Dakar winner and seasoned rally driver, was visibly moved by the Silverton welcome. Speaking during the event, he said it was the first time in his career he truly felt that a company’s leadership loves motorsport. He expressed sincere appreciation for Ford’s passion and the energy of the South African team.
He also shared his reflections on the Safari Rally, admitting that the narrow tracks, tall grass and unfamiliar terrain made it one of the most challenging events he’s ever faced, but also one of the most valuable learning experiences.
Ford Performance’s Global Off-Road Marketing Manager, Matthew Winter, facilitated a Q&A with Roma for employees, giving them a front-row seat to the highs, challenges and adrenaline of rallying.
Plant Manager Suresh Babu closed the event by thanking the Motorsport team and employees alike. “The roar of that Raptor. Sensational wasn’t it! you could feel it in your chest. But what really mattered was the pride and passion from everyone here today. Whether on the track or the production line, we are all part of this incredible story.”
A huge congratulations to everyone who helped bring this moment to life and turn the day Blue in true Ford spirit.
Don’t miss the video capturing all the excitement, emotion and unforgettable moments from this proudly South African Ford celebration. Watch it now to relive the energy of the day!