The Dakar Rally is the world’s biggest off-road race, much like how the 24 Hours of Le Mans is the most prestigious pavement endurance race. Both worlds will collide for the latter’s upcoming edition as the Automobile Club de l’Ouest has invited Dakar Classic team Compagnie Saharienne to display its Toyota Land Cruisers at Circuit de la Sarthe during the Le Mans 24 weekend.

While the ACO is not to be confused with the ASO, the two French organizers occasionally work together to cross-promote at their respective events. In 2025, six Dakar Rally vehicles appeared at the Le Mans Classic Heritage, a vintage version of Le Mans that alternates with the Le Mans Classic Legend each year (Heritage is for vehicles that raced from 1923 to 1975, Legend for those from 1976 onward).

“This close collaboration provides an opportunity to bring together two legendary endurance races, two Everests of motorsport, where a skillful blend of human adventure, team spirit and machine reliability are key,” reads a statement from the team.

“Car enthusiasts from all over the world, we look forward to meeting you during this week of racing which promises to be exceptional in every way.”

Compagnie Saharienne fielded four Land Cruisers at the Dakar Classic in January: the HZJ78 for Shammie Baridwan (seventh) and Kim Matzen (26th), and HDJ100s for Julian Johan (fifth) and Sanjay Takale (DNF). Baridwan became the first Indonesian driver to win a Dakar stage when he topped Stage 11. The team also has a Can-Am Maverick R that hopes to be used in standard rally raids.

Featured image credit: Rodrigo Barreto / FOTOP / ASO