The Dakar Rally, a renowned and challenging off-road race, is currently scheduled to take place from January 1 to January 15, 2027, in Saudi Arabia. However, due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, there are strong indications that the event may shift to Morocco. This potential change has generated excitement among rally enthusiasts and participants alike, as Morocco last hosted the Dakar Rally in 2007.
Potential Shift to Morocco Amidst Regional Uncertainty
As the 2026 season of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) approaches its conclusion with the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge set for November 22-27, competitors are already looking ahead to the next Dakar Rally. The 49th edition of this prestigious event is expected to begin from the King Abdullah Economic City. However, recent reports suggest an alternative plan is under consideration, which would involve a delayed start on January 9, 2027, from either Spain or Portugal. Following a few days in Europe, participants would travel by boat to Morocco, where the rally would conclude with eight stages across the African continent.
This potential transition marks a significant return of the Dakar Rally to Morocco, a country known for its diverse landscapes that provide a thrilling backdrop for such an adventurous race. The final stage is projected to occur on January 22, which complicates scheduling for competitors, especially those considering participation in both the Dakar and the Monte Carlo Rally, the latter of which kicks off on January 21.
One notable competitor, Sébastien Loeb, who has been eyeing the Monte Carlo Rally, faces a tough decision between competing in the Dakar—a race he has pursued for a decade—and his favored rally in Monaco. As of now, Loeb has yet to announce his plans for 2027, particularly in light of Dacia's withdrawal from the rally-raid scene and the upcoming changes in the rallying regulations with WRC27.
For the organizers of the Dakar, maintaining the event is of utmost importance. Since its conception by Thierry Sabine, the rally has become a cornerstone of the W2RC, attracting countless fans who often save for years to take part in such a monumental challenge. Fortunately, the concerns surrounding a potential cancellation—like what occurred in 2008—are currently not on the horizon.
As reported by autohebdo.fr.
