At 64 years old, Jordi Pujol, born in Mar del Plata and currently residing in Sant Celoni, achieved a major sporting dream. His role aboard the DAF FAV85 truck for the Tibau Team was crucial, focusing on the technical and strategic management of the vehicle.
Pujol's function involves controlling vital parameters such as tire pressure according to the terrain, regulating the speed –limited to 125 km/h– and ensuring strict compliance with the limits set by the organization, especially in populated areas.
“"The large teams have assistance trucks, but these, in case of breakdown or mishap, must request entry into the Dakar route. By participating, we arrive faster if necessary for our clients, in case a tire, differential, or axle shaft needs changing."
In addition to competing, Pujol's team provided rapid assistance services to the Toyota team. Despite the extreme difficulty of the race, the experience is highly addictive, although Pujol admits that repeating a victory is “impossible.”
On the third or fourth day you ask yourself what you are doing there, but when you finish, you are already thinking about returning.
With a critical view, the champion argues that the Dakar has become highly professionalized, losing some of its original spirit of adventure, but highlights the camaraderie shared with fellow participants like Nandu Jubany or Laia Sanz. “It’s like the military; you depend heavily on who you have next to you.”
