Defender Signs Sara Price for Dakar 2026 Debut

Sven Syfrig
12 hours ago
2 min read

Sara Price is not just making headlines – she’s making history. After a stellar performance in the Dakar Rally, the American motorsport sensation will join Team Defender for the 2026 edition, piloting the brand-new Defender D7X-R in the "Stock" category. With this step, Sara becomes the first woman to race for Defender and continues to redefine what’s possible in off-road racing.

sara price mx — Sara Price Joins Defender for Dakar 2026

From Dirt Tracks to Desert Dunes

Sara’s journey into motorsport began on two wheels. Raised in California, she started racing motocross at just eight years old and quickly became a dominant force, winning over 17 national titles in the USA. Her competitive spirit and natural talent led her to a professional factory ride – a dream come true for any young racer.

But Sara wanted more.

She transitioned to four wheels and embraced the world of off-road and rally racing. From UTVs and Trophy Trucks to cross-country rallies, she proved her skills in every discipline. Her approach is fearless, her style calculated, and her drive unmatched.

Dakar Debut – A Statement

In 2024, Sara made her Dakar Rally debut in the SSV (Side-by-Side Vehicle) category, driving a factory-prepped Can-Am. Her performance shocked the rally world: not only did she finish as Best Rookie, she also became the first American woman to win a stage in Dakar history – a feat achieved in brutal desert conditions.

In 2025, she returned stronger, despite mechanical setbacks. She fought back with multiple stage wins, proving her endurance, speed, and rally navigation were on par with the best in the world.

A New Chapter with Defender

In 2026, Sara will trade her SSV for the Defender D7X-R, a purpose-built machine designed to compete at the highest level of rally raid. The car is based on the legendary Defender platform, re-engineered for extreme competition.

This marks the first time Defender fields an official works team at Dakar – and Sara will be one of its lead drivers.

For fans and aspiring racers, this is a powerful message: talent, dedication, and belief can break barriers.