Giniel de Villiers is a South African racing and rally driver.
He finished in fifth-place overall in the 2017 edition of the Dakar and was back on the podium in third place in 2018 – his eighth podium finish at the Dakar.
A stage win at the 2020 Dakar helped Giniel to fifth place overall that year. In 2021 he won another stage victory, however, he was unable to add this to his collection of podium finishes, resulting in an eighth place overall.
Giniel raced the new look Toyota Hilux T1+ model in Saudi Arabia at the 2022 Dakar and won the ninth stage, finishing in fifth place overall.
Discipline: Rally Dakar
Born: 1972
Interests
Motor racing, all-terrain racing, circuit racing
Some Facts:
4 times SA Touring car champion, 7 Dakar podiums, 1 Dakar win, 3 times Marocco rally winner, 2008 won the Portugal Rally, 2008 winner Dos Sertoes rally Brazil.
What music do you like to listen to when you drive?
When I drive, I listen to any good music, I am not too fussy about music, to be honest.
Do you have any mileage that you fancy the most to drive, why this one?
In South Africa we have some beautiful passes and the Franschoek pass, close to my home is one of my favourites.
What is your best tip to drive smart?
Always be alert and anticipate what other drivers will do. They might turn right in front of you, so you need be alert to be able to stop in time or avoid them.
Why should anyone join your team?
Because we all need to do what we can to make our roads safer, and also, this is gonna be really fun.
