Just reaching the finish line of the two-week Dakar Rally is classed as a victory. However, there’s an elite group of desert racers heading to Saudi Arabia with dreams of winning outright.

Polish up your knowledge of the one and only Dakar Rally, the toughest test motorsports has to offer. We’ve picked out 10 little-known gems of wisdom about the unique event.

Behind every team at the Dakar Rally is a small army of technicians, pilots, coordinators and drivers working 24/7 in extreme conditions. This is the story of the people you never see on screen.

A four-time Dakar Rally champ and WRC legend, Carlos Sainz helped put Spain on the motorsport map and is now leading Ford in the desert. Find out more about the racing legend’s career here.

From epic fitness races to intense strength showdowns, 2026’s fitness competitions are thrilling to watch – or join yourself.