Dakar Classic 2026
About the Dakar Classic
The Dakar Classic is the historic sister event of the legendary Dakar Rally and has been held by the Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) every January alongside the main race since 2021. Current venue: Saudi Arabia. In contrast to the uncompromising speed format of the Dakar, the Classic is all about regularity – consistency and navigation rather than outright speed. Over around 4,000 competitive kilometres and some 12 stages in two weeks, crews experience sand deserts, rock formations and high mountain passes. Eligible vehicles are classic off-roaders, historic rally trucks and motorcycles from the 1980s and 1990s, built up to 2005. Icons such as the Porsche 959, classic Range Rovers and Land Rover Defenders make their comeback here. The Dakar Classic is more than a competition – it is a living museum of rally raid history.
The 6th edition starts on 03–17 Jan 2026 in Yanbu. The route covers 7281 km in 15 days.
