Tim Coronel opens his latest column with an enthusiastic look ahead to the Dakar Rally. As he fine-tunes the team’s buggy, he describes the intense work that goes into preparing the vehicle. This year, the buggy is lighter, hitting the minimum weight limit — 80 kilos less than last year. Improvements include better tires in collaboration with Maxxis and more ergonomic adjustments inside the cockpit. These refinements, though small, are crucial. Tim acknowledges there’s little left to improve — only the engine tuning was skipped to avoid unnecessary risks.
He emphasizes how much support the team receives from fans and sponsors, which motivates them to push boundaries. Coronel is especially proud of the dedication from the team, particularly the mechanics working tirelessly behind the scenes. Their passion and commitment, he notes, give life to the project. Day in and day out, a small core team pours energy into the vehicle, making the work not just technical but deeply personal and emotional.
Tim also touches on the balance between professional and personal life. Even after recently welcoming a new child, he says the rhythm of life hasn’t changed — motorsport has always been central to the Coronel family. His wife Gaby, along with their entire support system, is deeply involved and understanding. He paints a vivid picture of growing up surrounded by engines and tires, suggesting that the lifestyle is more a continuation of family tradition than a sacrifice.
The upcoming team presentation marks a significant milestone. For Coronel, running a racing team isn’t just about building a car — it’s a complex project involving media, coordination, and collaboration from dozens of people. From technicians to project managers to media coordinators, every aspect must align like a well-oiled machine. He stresses that doing this alone would be impossible; it’s the collective energy and cooperation that fuels success.
Finally, Coronel teases an exciting surprise — the introduction of a second car for the rally. Though he keeps the identity of the new driver secret, he hints that it will be an unexpected name, stirring speculation within the racing community. With jokes flying around about celebrities joining the race, anticipation builds for the reveal. In classic Coronel style, he signs off with energy and camaraderie, reinforcing his message: together, you’re strong — alone, you’re a nobody.
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