Red Bull KTM Unveils 2027 Rally Squad for Historic Dakar Return to Africa!
Excitement is building across the rally-raid world as the Dakar Rally prepares to return to African soil in 2027 for the first time since 2007! Spanning two continents, the iconic endurance race will kick off in Portugal before charging through the grueling desert landscapes of Morocco.
To tackle this new frontier, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing has officially confirmed its powerhouse three-rider lineup aboard the proven KTM 450 RALLY. Representing three core elements—Stone, Wind, and Fire—the team brings an unstoppable blend of consistency, raw speed, and youthful energy to the 49th edition of the Dakar!
The Elemental Trio: Stone, Wind & Fire
- Luciano Benavides (“Stone” – Resilience & Consistency):
The defending 2026 Dakar Champion returns to protect his crown. Benavides claimed a historic maiden Dakar victory in 2026 by a razor-thin two-second margin—delivering KTM’s 22nd Dakar title despite arriving at the event fresh off a knee injury. - Daniel Sanders (“Wind” – Pure Speed):
The 2025 Dakar and W2RC Champion enters 2027 with vengeance on his mind. After overcoming a collarbone injury at Dakar 2026 to finish 5th, “Chucky” rebounded in style by winning the Rally-Raid Portugal and Desafío Ruta 40 to lead the world championship. - Edgar Canet (“Fire” – Endless Energy):
The youngest rider on the roster has enjoyed a stellar breakthrough year in RallyGP. Fresh off his maiden victory at the Rallye du Maroc, the young Spaniard brings explosive momentum and sharp navigation into his third Dakar appearance.
Dakar 2027: Key Route Facts
- Dates: January 9 – 23, 2027
- Start / Finish: Loulé-Faro, Portugal to Marrakech, Morocco
- Total Distance: 7,234 km across 12 stages + Prologue (4,341 km timed)
- Key Pitstop: Rest day in Agadir, Morocco
With an undefeated run in the 2026 World Rally-Raid Championship rounds so far, Rally Team Manager Andreas Hölzl and the entire KTM factory crew are fully primed to write another chapter of Dakar glory
