Dakar is weeks away and Team Speed Energy and Toyo Tires have doubled their chance at success during this year’s Dakar Rally. Robby Gordon and his Gordini will have company out at the race with a new driver in the number two car in the young sensation of Sheldon Creed.

“When looking at drivers for the second HST Gordini we did not have to look very far as ultra talented 2015 Stadium SUPER Trucks Champion and X Games Gold Medalist Sheldon Creed is super familiar with the vehicle size and handling. My biggest challenge with Sheldon will not be going fast, but will be holding the reins back on him to make the vehicle last 13-days. The first half of the race he is a driver, but a student up against some of the best Rally racers in the world,” Gordon continued about Creed.

Sheldon will make it into the record books just by sitting in the driver seat. He will be recorded as the youngest competitor in the 36 year history of the world famous rally, at the age 18. Creed boasts an impressive racing resume for an 18-year old, capturing 12 previous off-road championships, and staking claim to a season record 11-SST victories in 2015, including taking home the 2015 X-Games gold medal.

“Being a teammate with Robby for Dakar is an absolute dream come true. I’ve gotten to know him super well over the last few years, and I have seen how much hard work he puts into his Dakar program. Out of all drivers that I could have the chance to be teammates with, this is a true honor to be able to learn and test my driving skills against some of the best in the world under the watchful eye of a Dakar great,” Sheldon Creed said.

How do you think both Gordini’s will do out in the 13-day challenge? Tell us in the comments below!