The Instatrade Loprais Team De Rooy FPT celebrates its podium finish with MANNFILTER products. Under the most extreme conditions, the racing team demonstrated how crucial reliable systems are. Supported by
highquality filtration products, the team secured the silver medal in the truck overall classification.
Ludwigsburg, January 23, 2026 – The 2026 Dakar Rally once again proved why it is regarded as the toughest rally in the world. Over nearly 8,000 kilometers through Saudi Arabia, gravel tracks, fine desert dust and endless dune fields pushed both man and machine to their absolute limits. Under these extreme conditions, it became clear once again how essential reliability, effective technical protection through premium products such as the filtration technologies from MANNFILTER, and consistent performance are for achieving success.
Consistent stage results despite major challenges
Throughout the rally, the team achieved multiple stage victories and continuously fought for positions at the front. Despite technical difficulties and demanding race situations, including electronic issues, the temporary failure of the fourwheel drive system and several critical moments in the dunes, the crew remained in
contention for a podium finish at all times. The second half of the rally, in particular, highlighted the team’s impressive speed and determination to push right to the limit.
Their efforts were ultimately rewarded with a strong second place overall. Across 13 timed stages, the team collected eight podium results, including five stage wins — more than any other truck crew in the field. This once again confirmed the standing of driver Ales Loprais (45, Czech Republic), codriver David Kripal
(43, Czech Republic) and mechanic Jiri Stross (44, Czech Republic) among the world’s elite truck competitors.
OEquality filtration solutions from MANNFILTER contribute to rally success
A key factor behind the team’s consistency under extreme conditions was the reliability of the vehicle’s systems. OEquality filtration solutions from MANNFILTER ensured dependable protection for the engine, air, fuel, hydraulic and compressedair systems throughout the entire rally. Even during heavy dust exposure, high temperatures and long stages without service intervals, the filtration technology helped maintain vehicle performance and prevent unexpected failures.
Out of 45 truck starters, only 16 were classified as finishers. A figure that underlines the importance of meticulous preparation and optimal vehicle setup. The result is a source of pride for the driver, codriver and mechanic.
The team summarized its experience: “The Dakar Rally is the ultimate endurance test for both humans and technology. Finishing this extremely demanding event on the podium clearly shows how important reliable filtration is for performance, protection and operational safety. Despite every challenge along the way, the
crew overcame all obstacles and remained in the fight for the podium throughout. We are very proud of our second place overall and thank all partners for their support.”
MANNFILTER products pass the desert endurance test
With a strong result to take home, the team departs Saudi Arabia together. MANNFILTER Sponsorship Manager Fillipina Manou sums up the successfully completed desert challenge: “The Dakar Rally is the ultimate endurance test for every component in a vehicle. Knowing that our filtration technologies contributed
to reliable performance under such extreme conditions fills us with great joy and pride. Achieving a podium finish at this legendary race is truly special and we warmly congratulate the Instatrade Loprais Team De Rooy FPT on this impressive team achievement.”
