[{"id":15911,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/07\/15\/toyota-to-debut-fuel-cell-hilux-in-2027-dakar-rally\/","title":"Toyota to Debut Fuel Cell Hilux in 2027 Dakar Rally","content":"Toyota GAZOO Racing will take another major step toward carbon-neutral motorsport by entering the 2027 Dakar Future Mission 1000 category with a hydrogen fuel cell-powered DKR GR FC Hilux, marking the company's first motorsports program to combine hydrogen and fuel cell technology. \u00a0The announcement underscores Toyota's continued commitment to using motorsports as a proving ground for next-generation technologies. The Dakar Rally's Mission 1000 class was created to showcase alternative energy vehicles capable of tackling one of the world's toughest off-road competitions while advancing sustainable mobility solutions.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_15913\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Toyota Gazoo Racing will enter a Fuel Cell Hilux in the Dakar Future Mission 100 Category. Photo: Toyota Gazoo Racing[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe DKR GR FC Hilux will be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) system, generating electricity from hydrogen while emitting only water vapor. Toyota says the project represents a significant milestone in its ongoing effort to expand the possibilities of hydrogen-powered transportation both in competition and future production vehicles.\r\n

The 2027 Mission 1000 entry continues Toyota's broader multi-pathway strategy toward reducing carbon emissions, which includes hybrid, battery-electric, hydrogen combustion, and fuel cell technologies. By bringing hydrogen fuel cell technology to the Dakar Rally, Toyota aims to demonstrate its potential in one of the most grueling endurance events in motorsports.<\/p>","excerpt":"

Toyota GAZOO Racing will take another major step toward carbon-neutral motorsport by entering the 2027 Dakar Future Mission 1000 category …<\/p>","date":"July 15, 2026 08:37","categories":[{"id":25048544,"title":"Electric","slug":"electric"},{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25049942,"title":"Dakar Future Mission 100","slug":"dakar-future-mission-100"},{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25049943,"title":"FCEV","slug":"fcev"},{"id":25049940,"title":"Fuel Cell","slug":"fuel-cell"},{"id":25049941,"title":"Hilux","slug":"hilux"},{"id":25048379,"title":"toyota","slug":"toyota"},{"id":25048685,"title":"toyota gazoo racing","slug":"toyota-gazoo-racing"}]},{"id":15778,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/06\/30\/skyler-howes-parts-ways-with-monster-energy-honda-hrc\/","title":"Skyler Howes Parts Ways with Monster Energy Honda HRC","content":"American rally rider Skyler Howes and Monster Energy Honda HRC have officially ended their partnership, bringing to a close a successful two-and-a-half-year stint with the factory rally team. The decision was described as mutual, with both parties set to pursue new opportunities ahead of the next chapter in the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship.\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\nHowes joined Honda ahead of the 2024 season after finishing third overall in the 2023 Dakar Rally. During his time with the team, the Utah rider helped Honda secure strong results in the World Rally-Raid Championship, highlighted by a fourth-place finish at the 2026 Dakar Rally and his first career Dakar stage victory.\r\n\r\nIn a statement, Howes thanked the team, mechanics, and staff for their support, calling his time with Honda an unforgettable experience. Monster Energy Honda HRC also expressed its appreciation for Howes' professionalism, commitment, and contributions to the program, wishing him success in the future.\r\n\r\nThe announcement leaves one of America's top rally-raid riders available as preparations begin for the remainder of the 2026 World Rally-Raid Championship season and the 2027 Dakar Rally.","excerpt":"

American rally rider Skyler Howes and Monster Energy Honda HRC have officially ended their partnership, bringing to a close a …<\/p>","date":"June 30, 2026 10:20","categories":[{"id":25047609,"title":"Moto","slug":"moto"},{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25047643,"title":"Honda","slug":"honda"},{"id":25048358,"title":"honda hrc","slug":"honda-hrc"},{"id":25047675,"title":"moto","slug":"moto"},{"id":25049895,"title":"Rally-Raid","slug":"rally-raid"},{"id":25047967,"title":"skyler howes","slug":"skyler-howes"}]},{"id":15618,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/05\/31\/daniel-sanders-wins-desafio-ruta-40\/","title":"Daniel Sanders Wins Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40, Takes World Rally-Raid Championship Lead","content":"

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Daniel Sanders claimed a dominant victory at the 2026 Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40 in Argentina, winning four stages and securing the overall rally victory by more than 12 minutes. The result moves the Australian to the top of the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship standings after three rounds.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_15620\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Daniel Sanders finished ahead of Tosha Schareina and Ricky Brabec in the Desafio Ruta 40 Rally in Argentina. Photo: Red Bull KTM[\/caption]\r\n

Despite a navigation mistake in the prologue that left him seventh, Sanders quickly rebounded with back-to-back stage wins and controlled the event from the front aboard his KTM 450 Rally. He capped off the week with another stage victory on the final day, sealing his first career Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40 triumph.<\/p>\r\n

Honda riders Tosha Schareina and Ricky Brabec completed the overall podium, while KTM teammate Luciano Benavides finished fourth. Sanders\u2019 victory follows earlier wins at the Dakar Rally and Rally Raid Portugal, extending his strong start to the 2026 season.<\/p>\r\nWith the win, Sanders takes a three-point lead in the championship standings over Schareina heading into the second half of the World Rally-Raid Championship season.","excerpt":"

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Daniel Sanders claimed a dominant victory at the 2026 Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40 in Argentina, …<\/p>","date":"May 31, 2026 21:57","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25049893,"title":"Argentia","slug":"argentia"},{"id":25048585,"title":"daniel sanders","slug":"daniel-sanders"},{"id":25049891,"title":"Desafio Ruta 40","slug":"desafio-ruta-40"},{"id":25049896,"title":"FIM World Rally Raid","slug":"fim-world-rally-raid"},{"id":25047643,"title":"Honda","slug":"honda"},{"id":25047678,"title":"ktm","slug":"ktm"},{"id":25047675,"title":"moto","slug":"moto"},{"id":25049895,"title":"Rally-Raid","slug":"rally-raid"},{"id":25049892,"title":"Tosha Schariena","slug":"tosha-schariena"},{"id":25049894,"title":"World Rally","slug":"world-rally"}]},{"id":15606,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/05\/30\/norra-announces-historic-baja-10-day-rally-for-2027\/","title":"NORRA Announces Historic Baja 10-Day Rally for 2027","content":"NORRA has unveiled plans for a new Baja 10-Day Rally as part of the organization\u2019s 60th anniversary celebration in 2027. The expanded event will take competitors from Ensenada to San Jos\u00e9 del Cabo and back to Ensenada, creating the longest rally format in NORRA history. The announcement follows strong participation in the 2026 Baja 6-Day Rally and growing interest from racers seeking additional Baja competition.\r\n\r\nIn addition to the new 10-Day Rally, NORRA will continue its traditional Baja 6-Day Rally from Ensenada to Cabo and introduce a Baja 4-Day Rally that covers only the return leg from Cabo to Ensenada.NORRA also confirmed the return of motorcycle competition for 2027, with riders following the same rally routes as four-wheel competitors using roadbook navigation and GPS systems.\r\n\r\nThe organization believes the expanded format, combined with the momentum generated by the debut of the King of Baja championship and growing international participation, could attract one of the largest and most diverse fields in NORRA history. Additional information regarding routes, classes, registration, and event dates is expected to be released through a series of monthly updates leading into the 2027 season.","excerpt":"

NORRA has unveiled plans for a new Baja 10-Day Rally as part of the organization\u2019s 60th anniversary celebration in 2027. …<\/p>","date":"May 30, 2026 17:53","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25049888,"title":"10-day rally","slug":"10-day-rally"},{"id":25047701,"title":"baja","slug":"baja"},{"id":25048863,"title":"cabo","slug":"cabo"},{"id":25047768,"title":"ensenada","slug":"ensenada"},{"id":25047752,"title":"norra","slug":"norra"},{"id":25048106,"title":"norra rally","slug":"norra-rally"},{"id":25049889,"title":"vintage rally","slug":"vintage-rally"}]},{"id":14859,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/01\/17\/champions-decided-as-2026-dakar-rally-concludes-in-saudi-arabia\/","title":"Champions Decided as 2026 Dakar Rally Concludes in Saudi Arabia","content":"The 48th Dakar Rally is in the books. The rally covered almost 8,000 km of punishing desert terrain in Saudi Arabia, delivered heartbreak and triumph until the final kilometers of the rally. After 13 grueling stages, the champions were crowned in a whirlwind finish that fans won\u2019t soon forget.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14861\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Brock Heger secured his second consecutive Dakar title. Photo: A.S.O.\/J.Delfosse\/DPPI[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe biggest story in the United States was Brock Heger claiming his second rally title. Heger dominated the class taking the early overall lead during the rally. The SSV category saw multiple Polaris RZR vehicles finish highly, with Polaris securing the top and third positions in the final standings.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14863\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Luciano Benavides beat Ricky Brabec by 2 minutes to win the overall Dakar motorcycle title. Photo: A.S.O.\/Jennifer Lindini[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn what became one of the closest overall finishes in Dakar history, Argentina\u2019s Luciano Benavides clinched his first Dakar Rally motorcycle title by an astonishing two seconds, the narrowest margin ever in the bike category. Ricky Brabec started the day with a lead, but a late mistake allowed Benavides the victory. Tosha Schareina finished third.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14865\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Nasser Al-Attiyah adds a sixth Dakar Rally title to his resume. Photo: A.S.O.\/J.Delfosse\/DPPI[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn the car category, veteran Qatari rally-raid legend Nasser Al-Attiyah secured his sixth Dakar Rally victory, adding another monumental chapter to his storied career. Driving for the Dacia Sandriders team which claimed its first overall Dakar win. Al-Attiyah maintained blazing consistency across two weeks of punishing speed sections, dunes, and rocky terrain. He finished the rally with a margin of nearly 10 minutes over his closest rival Nani Roma. Finishing third overall was Mattias Ekstr\u00f6m.","excerpt":"

The 48th Dakar Rally is in the books. The rally covered almost 8,000 km of punishing desert terrain in Saudi …<\/p>","date":"January 17, 2026 20:41","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25047900,"title":"brock heger","slug":"brock-heger"},{"id":25049813,"title":"Dakar 2026","slug":"dakar-2026"},{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25049086,"title":"luciano benavides","slug":"luciano-benavides"},{"id":25049611,"title":"Nani Roma","slug":"nani-roma"},{"id":25048662,"title":"nassar al-attiyah","slug":"nassar-al-attiyah"},{"id":25047968,"title":"nasser al-attiyah","slug":"nasser-al-attiyah"},{"id":25047641,"title":"Ricky Brabec","slug":"ricky-brabec"},{"id":25047646,"title":"saudi arabia","slug":"saudi-arabia"}]},{"id":14841,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/01\/14\/dakar-rally-leaderboard-update\/","title":"Dakar Rally: Leaderboard Update","content":"With four punishing stages still to go, the 2026 Dakar Rally has delivered another round of chaos, heroics and strategy through Stage 9\u2019s grueling marathon segment. Navigation errors, mechanical misfortune and opportunistic rides have reshaped the battle for glory across bike, car and truck categories and the leaderboard now paints an unpredictable picture of who could ultimately stand atop the sands of Saudi Arabia.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14844\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Ricky Brabec sits six minutes behind leader Daniel Sanders. Photo: A.S.O.\/Jennifer Lindini[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe bikes category once again proved to be a tactical war as riders confronted a demanding 418-km special toward Bisha. Spaniard Tosha Schareina seized the Stage 9 win. Daniel Sanders who claimed the provisional overall lead after finishing solidly second on the stage, clawing back time and inheriting the top spot thanks to consistent pacing and resilience through the marathon. KTM rider Sanders now leads Honda\u2019s Ricky Brabec by roughly 6 min 24 sec, with KTM\u2019s Luciano Benavides a handful of minutes further back in third.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14846\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Nani Roma has the overall rally lead in the car class. Photo: a.s.o.\/a.vincent\/dppi[\/caption]\r\n\r\nStage 9 was nothing short of a roller coaster in the cars class. Navigation errors and slips from favorites like Nasser Al-Attiyah handed the advantage to Ford\u2019s Nani Roma, who surged to the overall lead with a performance that combined aggression with calculated risk management.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14848\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Brock Heger has a commanding lead in the SSV Class at the Dakar Rally. Photo: A.S.O.\/J.Delfosse\/DPPI[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe battle for supremacy in the SSV category at the 2026 Dakar Rally intensified. Brock Heger continued his commanding run as he continues lead the class. Portugal\u2019s Gon\u00e7alo Guerreiro remained firmly in contention, finishing near the front on Stage 9 to hold onto second overall. The Polaris driver has matched Heger\u2019s pace on multiple occasions during the rally, keeping the pressure on as the final stages loom.","excerpt":"

With four punishing stages still to go, the 2026 Dakar Rally has delivered another round of chaos, heroics and strategy …<\/p>","date":"January 14, 2026 18:26","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25049825,"title":"2026 Dakar Rally","slug":"2026-dakar-rally"},{"id":25049739,"title":"Bisha","slug":"bisha"},{"id":25047900,"title":"brock heger","slug":"brock-heger"},{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25048585,"title":"daniel sanders","slug":"daniel-sanders"},{"id":25049086,"title":"luciano benavides","slug":"luciano-benavides"},{"id":25049611,"title":"Nani Roma","slug":"nani-roma"},{"id":25047641,"title":"Ricky Brabec","slug":"ricky-brabec"},{"id":25047646,"title":"saudi arabia","slug":"saudi-arabia"},{"id":25047955,"title":"ssv","slug":"ssv"},{"id":25049836,"title":"Tosha Shareina","slug":"tosha-shareina"}]},{"id":14808,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/01\/08\/dakar-rally-guthrie-jr-excels-in-marathon-stage\/","title":"Dakar Rally: Guthrie Jr. Excels in Marathon Stage","content":"Stage 4 of the Dakar Rally was the first of two marathon stages. Wednesday night, the competitors camped in the desert without the comforts of the bivouac and support teams. By the end of Thursday, everyone was ready to get back to their support teams after a grueling Stage 5.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14810\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Mitch Guthrie Jr. secured another stage win at the 2026 Dakar Rally. Photo: a.s.o.\/a.vincent\/dppi[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn the car class, it was another Ford podium. Mitch Guthrie Jr. claimed his second stage victory of this Dakar after a strong performance over the 371 km timed special. Nani Roma crossed the line fastest but a speeding penalty moved him to second. Rounding out the podium in 3rd was Martin Prokop.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14812\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Luciano Benavides was the fastest bike of Stage 5. Photo: a.s.o.\/ jennifer lindini[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn the bike class, Luciano Benavides won the stage with Nacho Cornejo second and Daniel Sanders third. Sanders has regained the overall motorcycle lead with Ricky Brabec a close second.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14813\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Kyle Chaney secured a huge Stage 5 win at the Dakar Rally. Photo: a.s.o.\/a.vincent\/dppi[\/caption]\r\n\r\nKyle Chaney was the stage winner in the SSV class. Brock Heger maintains a significant lead in the class. Chaney\u2019s win moves him up to third in the overall standings.","excerpt":"

Stage 4 of the Dakar Rally was the first of two marathon stages. Wednesday night, the competitors camped in the …<\/p>","date":"January 8, 2026 23:35","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25047900,"title":"brock heger","slug":"brock-heger"},{"id":25049813,"title":"Dakar 2026","slug":"dakar-2026"},{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25048585,"title":"daniel sanders","slug":"daniel-sanders"},{"id":25047657,"title":"Kyle Chaney","slug":"kyle-chaney"},{"id":25049086,"title":"luciano benavides","slug":"luciano-benavides"},{"id":25049834,"title":"Marathon Stage","slug":"marathon-stage"},{"id":25048637,"title":"mitch guthrie jr","slug":"mitch-guthrie-jr"},{"id":25049109,"title":"nacho cornejo","slug":"nacho-cornejo"},{"id":25049611,"title":"Nani Roma","slug":"nani-roma"},{"id":25047641,"title":"Ricky Brabec","slug":"ricky-brabec"},{"id":25047646,"title":"saudi arabia","slug":"saudi-arabia"},{"id":25049833,"title":"SSV Class","slug":"ssv-class"},{"id":25049082,"title":"stage 4","slug":"stage-4"},{"id":25049832,"title":"Stage 5","slug":"stage-5"}]},{"id":14788,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/01\/06\/dakar-rally-stage-schareina-and-guthrie-jr-score-breakthrough-wins\/","title":"Dakar Rally Stage: Schareina and Guthrie Jr. Score Breakthrough Wins","content":"Stage 3 delivered one of the toughest days of the rally so far with a long, grueling loop through shifting sands, rocky washes and tricky navigation that reshuffled both the bike and car leaderboards.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14792\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Honda rider Tosha Schareina earned a stage 3 victory. Photo: A.S.O[\/caption]\r\n\r\nTosha Schareina rode a powerful and consistent race to claim the stage victory, his first stage wins of Dakar 2026 and a huge morale boost for Honda, breaking KTM\u2019s early dominance in the bike category. Ricky Brabec was second on the day, about 2 min 17 sec behind, with defending champion Daniel Sanders third. Sanders has the overall lead with on his tail.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14790\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Mitch Guthrie Jr. got his first stage win of the 2026 Dakar Rally. Photo: A.S.O.\/Charly L\u00f3pez[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn the car class, Mitch Guthrie Jr. scored his first Dakar stage win in the top class, driving a Ford Raptor and moving into the overall rally lead. Brock Heger leads the SSV standings for his second stage win of the rally.","excerpt":"

Stage 3 delivered one of the toughest days of the rally so far with a long, grueling loop through shifting …<\/p>","date":"January 6, 2026 21:23","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25047900,"title":"brock heger","slug":"brock-heger"},{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25049830,"title":"Dakar Rally Stage 3","slug":"dakar-rally-stage-3"},{"id":25048585,"title":"daniel sanders","slug":"daniel-sanders"},{"id":25048637,"title":"mitch guthrie jr","slug":"mitch-guthrie-jr"},{"id":25047641,"title":"Ricky Brabec","slug":"ricky-brabec"},{"id":25049831,"title":"Tosha Schareina","slug":"tosha-schareina"}]},{"id":14769,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/01\/06\/dakar-rally-stage-2-victories-for-team-usa\/","title":"Dakar Rally Stage 2: Victories for Team USA","content":"The 2026 Dakar Rally continued on Stage 2 with a demanding test through rocky desert terrain, as competitors battled extreme conditions and long distances in the early fight for overall position. With much of the rally still ahead, Stage 2 rewarded controlled speed and accurate navigation while punishing even small mistakes.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14771\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Daniel Sanders rode to a Stage 2 win at the Dakar Rally. Photo: A.S.O[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThe motorcycle category delivered another tightly contested stage, with factory riders again dominating the front of the field. Stage winner Daniel Sanders set a strong pace throughout the special, while several overall contenders chose a measured approach to avoid opening future stages. Stage 1 winner Edgar Canet finished second and Ricky Brabec third.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14773\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Seth Quintero claimed his first win for 2026 in the car class during Stage 2. Photo: A.S.O.[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn the car category, a fast and clean run proved decisive as leading teams traded fastest sector times across the stage. Toyota\u2019s strength was evident at the front with Seth Quintero taking a big Stage 2 win. His teammate Henk Lategan also joined him on the podium in second. Completing the Toyota sweep was Yazeed Al-Rajhi.\r\n\r\nIn SSV, experience and consistency paid off on the rough Stage 2 route. Several crews lost time to mechanical issues, while the leaders managed the terrain effectively to build an early advantage including Brock Heger who claimed today\u2019s win. Francisco \u201cChaleco\u201d L\u00f3pez finished second and Xavier de Soultrait was third.","excerpt":"

The 2026 Dakar Rally continued on Stage 2 with a demanding test through rocky desert terrain, as competitors battled extreme …<\/p>","date":"January 6, 2026 00:21","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25049825,"title":"2026 Dakar Rally","slug":"2026-dakar-rally"},{"id":25047900,"title":"brock heger","slug":"brock-heger"},{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25049829,"title":"Dakar Stage 2","slug":"dakar-stage-2"},{"id":25048585,"title":"daniel sanders","slug":"daniel-sanders"},{"id":25047641,"title":"Ricky Brabec","slug":"ricky-brabec"},{"id":25047646,"title":"saudi arabia","slug":"saudi-arabia"},{"id":25047961,"title":"seth quintero","slug":"seth-quintero"}]},{"id":14759,"permalink":"https:\/\/dirtsportsworld.com\/2026\/01\/04\/dakar-rally-stage-1-de-mevius-claims-early-lead\/","title":"DAKAR RALLY STAGE 1: De M\u00e9vius Claims Early Lead","content":"The 48th Dakar Rally roared into life Sunday with an action-packed first full stage that delivered a mix of surprise victories, early championship pressures and historic performances in Saudi Arabia. Stage One was a 305-kilometer loop around Yanbu featuring rocky trails and sandy dunes that tested both machines and riders in scorching conditions.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14761\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"792\"]\"\" Guillaume de M\u00e9vius secured a Stage 1 win in his X-Raid Mini. Photo: X-Raid[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIn the car class, Belgian driver Guillaume de M\u00e9vius seized the stage win in his X-raid Mini, overtaking early leader Mattias Ekstr\u00f6m and holding off a strong challenge from five-time Dakar champion Nasser Al-Attiyah. Defending champion Yazeed Al-Rajhi suffered a major setback, picking up significant penalties for missing a waypoint and speeding, leaving him nearly 29 minutes behind the stage leader.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_14763\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"640\"]\"\" Edgar Canet is the youngest rider to win a Dakar stage on two-wheels. Photo: KTM[\/caption]\r\n\r\nOn two wheels, 20-year-old Edgar Canet continued his sensational start by winning the motorcycle category\u2019s Stage 1. The KTM rider, is already the youngest ever Dakar stage winner after clinching a win in the prologue. Canet extended his advantage ahead of teammate Daniel Sanders and Honda\u2019s Ricky Brabec.\r\nIn the SSV class, Xavier de Soultrait emerged victorious, topping the leaderboard with a strong effort that put him ahead of his rivals by several minutes at the end of the grueling Stage 1. Polaris dominated the top positions, with Portuguese driver Alexandre Pinto finishing second, just 3 minutes 34 seconds behind de Soultrait, and American competitor Brock Heger taking third at +3 minutes 48 seconds.","excerpt":"

The 48th Dakar Rally roared into life Sunday with an action-packed first full stage that delivered a mix of surprise …<\/p>","date":"January 4, 2026 20:26","categories":[{"id":25047612,"title":"News","slug":"news"},{"id":25047953,"title":"Rally","slug":"rally"}],"tags":[{"id":25047642,"title":"Dakar Rally","slug":"dakar-rally"},{"id":25048585,"title":"daniel sanders","slug":"daniel-sanders"},{"id":25049828,"title":"Edgar Canet","slug":"edgar-canet"},{"id":25049085,"title":"guillaume de mevius","slug":"guillaume-de-mevius"},{"id":25047641,"title":"Ricky Brabec","slug":"ricky-brabec"},{"id":25047646,"title":"saudi arabia","slug":"saudi-arabia"},{"id":25049487,"title":"Xavier de Soultrait","slug":"xavier-de-soultrait"},{"id":25049826,"title":"Yanbu","slug":"yanbu"}]}]{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1.1", "user_comment": "This feed allows you to read the posts from this site in any feed reader that supports the JSON Feed format. To add this feed to your reader, copy the following URL -- https://dirtsportsworld.com/category/rally/feed/json/ -- and add it your reader.", "next_url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/category/rally/feed/json/?paged=2", "home_page_url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/category/rally/", "feed_url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/category/rally/feed/json/", "language": "en-US", "title": "Rally Archives - DirtSportsWorld", "description": "The Voice of Off-Road Motorsports", "icon": "https://i0.wp.com/dirtsportsworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-DSW-Web-Icon.png?fit=59%2C59&ssl=1", "items": [ { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=15911", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/07/15/toyota-to-debut-fuel-cell-hilux-in-2027-dakar-rally/", "title": "Toyota to Debut Fuel Cell Hilux in 2027 Dakar Rally", "content_html": "

Toyota GAZOO Racing will take another major step toward carbon-neutral motorsport by entering the 2027 Dakar Future Mission 1000 category …

The post Toyota to Debut Fuel Cell Hilux in 2027 Dakar Rally appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "Toyota GAZOO Racing will take another major step toward carbon-neutral motorsport by entering the 2027 Dakar Future Mission 1000 category …The post Toyota to Debut Fuel Cell Hilux in 2027 Dakar Rally appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-07-15T08:37:34-07:00", "date_modified": "2026-07-15T08:37:34-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Dakar Future Mission 100", "Dakar Rally", "FCEV", "Fuel Cell", "Hilux", "toyota", "toyota gazoo racing", "Electric", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=15778", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/06/30/skyler-howes-parts-ways-with-monster-energy-honda-hrc/", "title": "Skyler Howes Parts Ways with Monster Energy Honda HRC", "content_html": "

American rally rider Skyler Howes and Monster Energy Honda HRC have officially ended their partnership, bringing to a close a …

The post Skyler Howes Parts Ways with Monster Energy Honda HRC appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "American rally rider Skyler Howes and Monster Energy Honda HRC have officially ended their partnership, bringing to a close a …The post Skyler Howes Parts Ways with Monster Energy Honda HRC appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-06-30T10:20:47-07:00", "date_modified": "2026-06-30T10:20:47-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Honda", "honda hrc", "Moto", "Rally-Raid", "skyler howes", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=15618", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/05/31/daniel-sanders-wins-desafio-ruta-40/", "title": "Daniel Sanders Wins Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40, Takes World Rally-Raid Championship Lead", "content_html": "

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Daniel Sanders claimed a dominant victory at the 2026 Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40 in Argentina, …

The post Daniel Sanders Wins Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40, Takes World Rally-Raid Championship Lead appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Daniel Sanders claimed a dominant victory at the 2026 Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40 in Argentina, …The post Daniel Sanders Wins Desaf\u00edo Ruta 40, Takes World Rally-Raid Championship Lead appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-05-31T21:57:21-07:00", "date_modified": "2026-05-31T21:57:21-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Argentia", "daniel sanders", "Desafio Ruta 40", "FIM World Rally Raid", "Honda", "ktm", "moto", "Rally-Raid", "Tosha Schariena", "World Rally", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=15606", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/05/30/norra-announces-historic-baja-10-day-rally-for-2027/", "title": "NORRA Announces Historic Baja 10-Day Rally for 2027", "content_html": "

NORRA has unveiled plans for a new Baja 10-Day Rally as part of the organization\u2019s 60th anniversary celebration in 2027. …

The post NORRA Announces Historic Baja 10-Day Rally for 2027 appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "NORRA has unveiled plans for a new Baja 10-Day Rally as part of the organization\u2019s 60th anniversary celebration in 2027. …The post NORRA Announces Historic Baja 10-Day Rally for 2027 appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-05-30T17:53:46-07:00", "date_modified": "2026-05-30T17:53:46-07:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "10-day rally", "baja", "cabo", "ensenada", "norra", "norra rally", "vintage rally", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=14859", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/01/17/champions-decided-as-2026-dakar-rally-concludes-in-saudi-arabia/", "title": "Champions Decided as 2026 Dakar Rally Concludes in Saudi Arabia", "content_html": "

The 48th Dakar Rally is in the books. The rally covered almost 8,000 km of punishing desert terrain in Saudi …

The post Champions Decided as 2026 Dakar Rally Concludes in Saudi Arabia appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "The 48th Dakar Rally is in the books. The rally covered almost 8,000 km of punishing desert terrain in Saudi …The post Champions Decided as 2026 Dakar Rally Concludes in Saudi Arabia appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-01-17T20:41:15-08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-17T20:41:15-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "brock heger", "Dakar 2026", "Dakar Rally", "luciano benavides", "Nani Roma", "nassar al-attiyah", "nasser al-attiyah", "Ricky Brabec", "saudi arabia", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=14841", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/01/14/dakar-rally-leaderboard-update/", "title": "Dakar Rally: Leaderboard Update", "content_html": "

With four punishing stages still to go, the 2026 Dakar Rally has delivered another round of chaos, heroics and strategy …

The post Dakar Rally: Leaderboard Update appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "With four punishing stages still to go, the 2026 Dakar Rally has delivered another round of chaos, heroics and strategy …The post Dakar Rally: Leaderboard Update appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-01-14T18:26:44-08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-14T18:26:44-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "2026 Dakar Rally", "Bisha", "brock heger", "Dakar Rally", "daniel sanders", "luciano benavides", "Nani Roma", "Ricky Brabec", "saudi arabia", "ssv", "Tosha Shareina", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=14808", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/01/08/dakar-rally-guthrie-jr-excels-in-marathon-stage/", "title": "Dakar Rally: Guthrie Jr. Excels in Marathon Stage", "content_html": "

Stage 4 of the Dakar Rally was the first of two marathon stages. Wednesday night, the competitors camped in the …

The post Dakar Rally: Guthrie Jr. Excels in Marathon Stage appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "Stage 4 of the Dakar Rally was the first of two marathon stages. Wednesday night, the competitors camped in the …The post Dakar Rally: Guthrie Jr. Excels in Marathon Stage appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-01-08T23:35:24-08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-08T23:35:24-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "brock heger", "Dakar 2026", "Dakar Rally", "daniel sanders", "Kyle Chaney", "luciano benavides", "Marathon Stage", "mitch guthrie jr", "nacho cornejo", "Nani Roma", "Ricky Brabec", "saudi arabia", "SSV Class", "stage 4", "Stage 5", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=14788", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/01/06/dakar-rally-stage-schareina-and-guthrie-jr-score-breakthrough-wins/", "title": "Dakar Rally Stage: Schareina and Guthrie Jr. Score Breakthrough Wins", "content_html": "

Stage 3 delivered one of the toughest days of the rally so far with a long, grueling loop through shifting …

The post Dakar Rally Stage: Schareina and Guthrie Jr. Score Breakthrough Wins appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "Stage 3 delivered one of the toughest days of the rally so far with a long, grueling loop through shifting …The post Dakar Rally Stage: Schareina and Guthrie Jr. Score Breakthrough Wins appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-01-06T21:23:40-08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-06T21:23:40-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "brock heger", "Dakar Rally", "Dakar Rally Stage 3", "daniel sanders", "mitch guthrie jr", "Ricky Brabec", "Tosha Schareina", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=14769", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/01/06/dakar-rally-stage-2-victories-for-team-usa/", "title": "Dakar Rally Stage 2: Victories for Team USA", "content_html": "

The 2026 Dakar Rally continued on Stage 2 with a demanding test through rocky desert terrain, as competitors battled extreme …

The post Dakar Rally Stage 2: Victories for Team USA appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "The 2026 Dakar Rally continued on Stage 2 with a demanding test through rocky desert terrain, as competitors battled extreme …The post Dakar Rally Stage 2: Victories for Team USA appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-01-06T00:21:56-08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-06T00:21:56-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "2026 Dakar Rally", "brock heger", "Dakar Rally", "Dakar Stage 2", "daniel sanders", "Ricky Brabec", "saudi arabia", "seth quintero", "News", "Rally" ] }, { "id": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/?p=14759", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/2026/01/04/dakar-rally-stage-1-de-mevius-claims-early-lead/", "title": "DAKAR RALLY STAGE 1: De M\u00e9vius Claims Early Lead", "content_html": "

The 48th Dakar Rally roared into life Sunday with an action-packed first full stage that delivered a mix of surprise …

The post DAKAR RALLY STAGE 1: De M\u00e9vius Claims Early Lead appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.

\n", "content_text": "The 48th Dakar Rally roared into life Sunday with an action-packed first full stage that delivered a mix of surprise …The post DAKAR RALLY STAGE 1: De M\u00e9vius Claims Early Lead appeared first on DirtSportsWorld.", "date_published": "2026-01-04T20:26:41-08:00", "date_modified": "2026-01-04T20:26:41-08:00", "authors": [ { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "DirtSportsWorld Staff", "url": "https://dirtsportsworld.com/author/dirtsportsworld/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4817be88e351e2814fd215f4b782a136e8119efccfc1eafde273c56619cf08f5?s=512&d=identicon&r=g" }, "tags": [ "Dakar Rally", "daniel sanders", "Edgar Canet", "guillaume de mevius", "Ricky Brabec", "saudi arabia", "Xavier de Soultrait", "Yanbu", "News", "Rally" ] } ] }