The Dakar Rally, also known as the “Paris-Dakar Rally,” is an annual off-road endurance race. The rally was first held in 1978 and has since become one of the most prestigious and challenging motorsports events in the world. We give you a quick overview of the event in Dakar Rally 101.

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Long Haul

The rally covers a distance of several thousand kilometres and takes place over the course of two weeks at the very start of each year. The Dakar Rally attracts top competitors from around the world, including professional drivers and amateur enthusiasts. The event is organized by the Amaury Sport Organisation, and it is broadcast to millions of viewers in over 190 countries.

Click here to check out a gallery showcasing South Africa’s Dakar hero, former winner Giniel de Villiers.

New Home

The race used to take place across Africa, which was the case from the very first event until 2008. Traditionally the route ran from Paris to Dakar in Senegal, it even ended in Cape Town in 1992. The 2008 race was canceled due to security concerns in Mauritania. In 2009, the rally was moved from Africa to South America due to security concerns. The event has been hosted solely in Saudi Arabia since 2020.

The route changes every year with no competitors having any idea of the course specifics before the race begins. The rally is divided into stages, with each stage covering a different section of the route. Some parts of the stage are timed and others are referred to liason sections. Timed sections are where competitors race flat out whereas a speed limit is imposed for the liaison sections. The overall winner is the vehicle that completes all the timed sections in the shortest elapsed time.

All Shapes and Sizes

The rally is open to a variety of vehicles, including motorcycles, cars, ATVs, quad bikes and trucks. Competitors must navigate through challenging terrain, including sand dunes, rocky mountains, and muddy rivers. The rally is known for its harsh conditions, and competitors must be prepared for extreme heat.

Click here to view highlights of last year’s race.

In addition to the physical challenges, the rally also requires a high level of strategy and navigation skills. Competitors must navigate through unfamiliar territory using only a road book and a compass. In recent years the road books are only handed on the morning of each stage. They must also balance the need for speed with the need to conserve fuel and protect their vehicles from damage. Late damage has left many crews with broken dreams close to the finish line.

Drama Filled

Over the years, the Dakar Rally has seen its fair share of drama and tragedy. In 2008, two-time winner Carlos Sainz was forced to retire after his car caught fire. Ari Vatanen’s Peugeot 405 T16 was stolen at the 1988 event and held for ransom, which meant the Finn was disqualified for not arriving at his prescribed start time. Sadly, there have been many competitors deaths during the event.

Click here to check out some of the classics that compete in the new segment of the race.

Despite the challenges, the Dakar Rally remains one of the most popular and prestigious motorsports events in the world. It attracts a wide range of competitors, from seasoned professionals to amateur enthusiasts. For many who fall into the latter category, finishing a single Dakar Rally is fulfillment of a lifelong dream. It challenges all to push the limits of their endurance and skill. The Dakar Rally is an event that should not be missed whether you’re a fan of motorsports or just enjoy a good adventure.