Home » Erik van Loon and Hein Verschuuren win H4 class in Dakar Classic

Erik van Loon and Hein Verschuuren win H4 class in Dakar Classic

The victory in the H4 class of the Dakar Classic goes to Erik van Loon and Hein Verschuuren. Driving their Audi Quattro, they dominated their class and quickly adapted to the Dakar Classic format. They finished 31st overall, but for Erik and Hein, the joy of winning their class and the fun they had together were the most important aspects of this Dakar Rally.

The twelfth stage was a short one for the Dakar Classic. The four Audi cars of the Dutch Quattro Legends team started the final stage together in a mass start and stayed together until the finish. All four cars completed the rally without significant issues, which Erik was thrilled about. “The car was absolutely fantastic. Auto Sport Veghel did an amazing job. We enjoyed every kilometer—this was so much fun to do.”

Erik was very pleased with the result. “We achieved some excellent daily results. That wasn’t easy with an H4 compared to the H1 cars, but we did it. I’m super happy with the class victory—we finished with nearly 9,000 fewer points than Peter, who came second. For now, this was my last time at the Dakar. Maybe, just maybe, I’ll return to the Classic someday, but this was a beautiful way to end it.”

“I especially want to thank Hein; we had two incredible weeks together and shared lots of laughs. Thanks also to the Auto Sport Veghel team for the great car and service, all our sponsors and partners—because without them, this wouldn’t be possible—and, of course, everyone who supports the team, the organizers, the fans, and the media. Thank you for making this another great Dakar edition!”

Erik isn’t planning to take much time off. “I want to compete in the Baja World Championship next year with a Can-Am. The first rally is in Hail on February 7, so I’ll be back in action soon.”

Strong performances in the seventh stage for Van Loon Racing

Erik, Hein, Anja, Jan and Ben ready for the start of Dakar 2025

Van Loon Racing happy that Dakar 2025 has begun

Van Loon Racing prepares for the second week of Dakar