Qatar’s Nasser Al-Attiyah claimed his sixth Dakar Rally title on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, driving a Dacia. The victory marks a significant achievement for the experienced rally driver, while Argentina’s Luciano Benavides secured the bike title in a nail-biting finish, winning by a mere two seconds. The 48th edition of the grueling off-road race concluded after two weeks of competition across the Saudi Arabian desert.
Al-Attiyah, alongside Belgian co-driver Fabian Lurquin, dominated much of the car competition, building a substantial lead throughout the rally. He finished nearly ten minutes ahead of second-place finisher Nani Roma (Ford), with Mattias Ekstrom (Ford) completing the podium. This win adds to Al-Attiyah’s previous Dakar triumphs in 2011, 2015, 2019, 2022, and 2023, solidifying his status as a legend in the motorsport world.
Nasser Al-Attiyah’s Dominant Dakar Rally Performance
Al-Attiyah’s strategy focused on consistency and avoiding major errors, a tactic that proved successful given the challenging terrain and unpredictable conditions of the Dakar Rally. He secured his 50th stage win on Friday, demonstrating his continued speed and skill. The 55-year-old, also a bronze medalist in clay pigeon shooting at the 2012 London Olympics, expertly navigated the demanding course, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.
However, the race wasn’t without its setbacks for other contenders. Last year’s champion, Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al Rajhi, was forced to withdraw due to mechanical issues, removing a strong competitor from the field. The withdrawal highlighted the inherent risks and mechanical demands of the Dakar, where reliability is as crucial as driving skill.
A Thrilling Bike Race to the Finish
The bike category provided a dramatic conclusion, with Luciano Benavides edging out Honda’s Ricky Brabec by just two seconds. Benavides, a 30-year-old KTM rider, capitalized on a late navigation error by Brabec, a two-time champion, to snatch the victory. Edgar Canet won the final stage, while Tosha Schareina (Honda) secured third place overall in the bike standings.
Benavides described the win as a lifelong dream, emphasizing the intense competition and the importance of seizing opportunities. He noted that Brabec’s mistake presented a “glimmer of hope” and allowed him to make a decisive move. Additionally, the victory adds to the family legacy, as his brother Kevin won the marathon race in 2021 and 2023.
The off-road racing event continues to grow in popularity, attracting competitors and spectators from around the globe. The Saudi Arabian landscape provides a unique and challenging backdrop for the rally, testing the limits of both man and machine. The event also serves as a significant economic boost for the region, attracting tourism and investment.
Looking ahead, organizers are already planning the 2027 Dakar Rally, with potential route adjustments and increased safety measures under consideration. The exact location and specific details of the next race are expected to be announced in the coming months. The focus will likely remain on enhancing the event’s sustainability and minimizing its environmental impact, while continuing to provide a thrilling and challenging experience for competitors.
Source: The Peninsula Qatar
Dakar Rally Official Website
Dakar Rally – Wikipedia
