MANN‑FILTER Demonstrates Reliability at the Dakar Rally
On December 3 2025, MANN‑FILTER, a brand of MANN+HUMMEL, announced its collaboration with the Instatrade Loprais Team De Rooy FPT for the 2026 Dakar Rally. The Dakar Rally, considered the world’s toughest off‑road race, will traverse nearly 8,000 kilometres through Saudi Arabian deserts starting 3 January 2026. The partnership provides an ideal platform for MANN‑FILTER to showcase its filtration technology under extreme conditions.
Team and vehicle
The team’s Iveco FPT Powerstar rally truck is piloted by Czech driver Aleš Loprais, who brings 19 Dakar starts and nine top‑ten finishes. He is joined by co‑driver David Kripal, a MANN+HUMMEL employee, and on‑board mechanic Jiri Stross, both experienced Dakar participants. Together, they aim to capitalise on their experience and the truck’s robust design to compete among the top contenders.
Filtration technology for extreme conditions
MANN‑FILTER equips the rally truck with original‑equipment‑quality filters that protect the engine, fuel, air and hydraulic systems from dust, heat and vibrations. A standout component is the golden MANN‑FILTER air dryer cartridge, featuring multi‑stage drying and optimised oil separation to safeguard pneumatic systems. Driver Aleš Loprais notes that the high‑quality filters ensure reliability in desert conditions, preventing damage from fine sand and water droplets.
Passion and outlook
The partnership combines technical expertise with sporting passion. MANN‑FILTER’s sponsorship manager Filippina Manou emphasises that proving the products under the toughest conditions supports the brand’s mission of delivering reliable filtration solutions. With the team looking ahead to Dakar 2026 with confidence, the collaboration highlights how motorsport partnerships can demonstrate product performance while engaging customers and fans. As the rally approaches, MANN‑FILTER plans to share updates and insights across its social channels, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and customer engagement.