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Dakar and Rally Raid — News and Reports
From the Dakar Classic bivouac to the W2RC calendar.
Race reports, insider stories and everything that moves the rally raid world.
This is the TimeOut Racing blog. We cover the rally raid scene from the inside — race reports, team stories, technical insights and news from the W2RC world championship calendar.
Our primary focus is the Dakar Rally and the Dakar Classic in all their facets. From the first registration deadlines to the final stage results, from vehicle preparation to bivouac life. But we also follow the broader rally raid calendar — the Africa Eco Race, the Desafío Ruta 40, the Rallye du Maroc and all the events that define this world.
We have been on the ground since 2022.
We know the teams, the bivouacs and the stories that never make the mainstream press.
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Dakar Classic 2027 Regulations: When Will the New Rules Be Released?
The Dakar Classic has quickly become one of the most exciting and prestigious events in the world of rally-raid. It combines legendary off-road spirit with historic vehicles, real Dakar challenges, and an atmosphere that feels closer to the golden age of the Dakar Rally than anything else on the calendar. Every year, more teams, drivers and motorsport enthusiasts dream about joining the Dakar Classic. But if you are seriously considering a Dakar Classic project, one question
Feb 177 min read
Land Rover Defender D7X-R: What to Expect at Dakar 2026
The Return of a Legend: Defender Dakar Ambitions for 2026 When Land Rover announced its return to top-level rally-raid competition, the off-road world collectively paused. Few names carry as much heritage as the Defender — a symbol of endurance, exploration and capability. With the Defender D7X-R preparing for Dakar 2026, a new chapter of that legacy begins, one driven not by nostalgia but by performance. Why the Defender D7X-R Is Built for Dakar Conditions The D7X-R doesn’t
Dec 6, 20252 min read
Dakar Rally 2026 Route: Full Stage Map, Itinerary and Highlights of the World's Toughest Rally
The Dakar Rally 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most demanding and diverse editions in modern rally-raid history. From 3 to 17 January, Saudi Arabia once again becomes the global arena for the world’s most extreme off-road challenge—this time with a massive 8,000-kilometre loop starting and finishing in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast. With 4,900 km of special stages , two marathon-style “refuge bivouac” tests, and the longest stage ever held in Saudi Arabia, the 48th Dakar pr
Nov 13, 20254 min read
Dakar Rally Route 2026 – New Route Across Saudi Arabia, No Empty Quarter!
The Dakar Rally 2026 takes a bold new direction.After five editions featuring similar sections, the upcoming race introduces a completely redesigned route – skipping the legendary but punishing Empty Quarter . Instead, the Dakar 2026 explores Western and Central Saudi Arabia , combining rocky deserts, mountain regions and scenic valleys – with start and finish in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast. Photocredit @ dakar.com Start and Finish in Yanbu Just like in 2025, the rally will
Oct 28, 20252 min read
Blunik and TimeOut Racing join forces for Dakar Rally 2026
Barcelona / Zürich, September 22, 2025 – Two strong players are teaming up: Blunik , based in Spain and a leader in high-precision...
Sep 22, 20252 min read
From the Outback to the Dakar – How Australians Can Join the Dakar Classic Rally
g'day mate You’ve explored the Outback. You’ve conquered the bush trails. But deep down, there’s one adventure left: The Dakar Classic...
Jul 7, 20252 min read
Dakar Classic – How to Prepare for the Rally Adventure of a Lifetime
You dream of competing in the legendary Dakar Classic Rally ? You're not alone. More and more enthusiasts are making this dream a...
Jul 6, 20252 min read
Smart Tachograph 2 – What Dakar Teams Must Know for the 2025 Journey to Barcelona
Heading to Barcelona – but not without Smart Tachograph 2 The countdown to Dakar 2026 is on. Teams across Europe are getting ready –...
Jul 6, 20252 min read
Dakar 2026: Vehicle Loading Dates, New Rules & Logistics Updates
Planning your Dakar 2026 logistics? Make sure you’re prepared for the official vehicle loading days and the updated boarding...
Jul 3, 20252 min read
Dakar Classic 2026 – Registration Now Open! Are You Ready?
As of June 7, 2025 , it’s official: Dakar and Dakar Classic 2026 registration is open ! And we at TimeOut Racing are proud to announce...
Jun 15, 20252 min read
Defender Signs Sara Price for Dakar 2026 Debut
Sara Price is not just making headlines – she’s making history. After a stellar performance in the Dakar Rally, the American motorsport...
May 16, 20252 min read
DAKAR 2026: THE NEW ERA FOR DEFENDER, PETERHANSEL AND BACIUŠKA
Defender joins the Dakar Rally – with legends behind the wheel Defender, the iconic British 4x4 brand, is entering the world’s toughest...
May 7, 20253 min read
Technical Regulations Dakar Classic 2026, whats new?
The Dakar Classic continues to evolve—and so do the technical regulations. Anyone preparing for the 2026 edition must pay close attention...
Apr 29, 20253 min read
Kawasaki Enters Dakar Rally 2026: A New Adventure Begins
The motorsport world is buzzing: Kawasaki is set to make its debut at the legendary Dakar Rally in 2026! With two specially prepared KLX...
Apr 28, 20251 min read
Tripy K: The Digital Co-Driver That Could Define Your Dakar Classic
Navigating the Dakar Classic is no easy feat. Endless dunes, rocky trails, vintage machines — and a co-driver who’s just as crucial as...
Mar 29, 20253 min read
Why Is the Paris Dakar Rally No Longer in Africa?
For decades, the Paris-Dakar Rally was one of the most thrilling and grueling motorsport events in the world. Starting in 1978, it led...
Mar 10, 20252 min read
Land Rover Defender's Official Entry into Dakar 2026
The Land Rover Defender is set to make its official debut in the Dakar Rally 2026 , marking a significant milestone for the iconic...
Mar 7, 20252 min read
Why Team 214 was Disqualified from the Dakar Rally 2025
In a shocking turn of events, Team Century Racing, with driver Brian Baragwanath and co-driver Leonard Cremer , has been disqualified...
Mar 5, 20251 min read
Mike Wiedemann: Impressive Performance at the Dakar Rally 2025 in the 'Original by Motul' Category
German rider Mike Wiedemann showcased remarkable resilience and skill during the 2025 Dakar Rally, securing a commendable 31st place...
Feb 3, 20252 min read
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