Although most of the participants who take part in the Paris Dakar are amateur adventure seekers, the race also attracts some major motor racing stars, looking to test or improve their skills in this grueling race passing through Morocco.

Car manufacturers like to use the Paris Dakar to test the endurance of their latest off-road vehicles. And with all the publicity the event gets, it's also a great way to advertise.

Normally around 500 teams take place in the event. The three main categories are: large trucks, automobiles and motorcycles. This year (2005/06) there were 80 trucks, 188 cars and 240 bikes along with a further 200 supporting vehicles.