19th Jan 2026, Saudi Arabia: – The 2026 Dakar Rally concluded with the closest finish in the event’s legendary history, as Monster Energy Honda HRC’s Ricky Brabec narrowly missed victory by a heartbreaking two seconds after nearly 50 hours of racing across Saudi Arabia. Heading into the decisive final stage, Brabec held a commanding advantage over his closest rival, Luciano Benavides, following a stage win the day before. With just 105 kilometres of timed racing remaining, Brabec opened the stage alone—an enormous challenge that demanded flawless navigation. After setting a strong pace across technical mountain tracks and fast coastal terrain along the Red Sea, a minor navigation error just seven kilometres from the finish proved decisive, denying him a third Dakar title by the smallest margin ever recorded.

After 4,737 km of racing and 49 hours, 41 seconds on the clock, Brabec finished a valiant second overall, adding two more stage victories to his Dakar career tally of 13 and delivering one of the most courageous performances in rally-raid history.

Monster Energy Honda HRC celebrated a powerful team result in Yanbu, placing four riders inside the top six.

• Tosha Schareina completed a remarkable comeback to secure third overall, overcoming an early penalty to claim three stage wins and confirm his status as one of the sport’s rising stars.
• Skyler Howes rebounded from early adversity to earn his first-ever Dakar stage victory and finish fourth overall, showcasing resilience and speed in equal measure.
• Adrien Van Beveren, after a challenging first week marked by misfortune, delivered a superb second-half charge including a stage win to secure sixth overall.

Beyond the premier category, Monster Energy Honda HRC’s Rally2 rookies stole the spotlight.

• Preston Campbell, competing in his first Dakar, delivered a sensational performance to finish second in Rally2, claim top rookie honours, and secure a stunning top-ten overall bike result.
• Martim Ventura demonstrated grit and determination, overcoming major setbacks to claim two stage victories and a Rally2 podium in his debut Dakar.

Despite the razor-thin margin at the front, the 2026 Dakar Rally showcased Monster Energy Honda HRC’s depth, determination, and competitive excellence. With podiums across categories and unforgettable performances etched into Dakar history, the team now turns its focus toward the next challenge.

After a well-earned recovery period, Monster Energy Honda HRC will return to action at Rally-Raid Portugal, 17–Top of FormBottom of Form

For more information on all the race details, please visit: https://rally.hondaracingcorporation.com/report/monster-energy-honda-hrc-on-dakar-podium-after-historic-final-stage/

For more information and questions, please reach out to the below:

• Mr. Raj Johal, General Manager, Training, PR and Comms: Rajvinder.johal@honda-eu.com
• Ms. Suchita Tuli, Senior Executive, PR and Comms: Suchita.tuli@honda-eu.com.