Dakar Rally relocated from Saudi Arabia amid regional instability, new host to be named later
The Dakar Rally, one of the world's most prominent off-road racing events, will not be held in Saudi Arabia as planned in January, according to a joint statement from organizers Amaury Sport Organisation and Saudi Motorsport Company. The two organizations cited recent developments in the region as the reason for the move, without specifying a new host country. A return to Saudi Arabia is planned for 2028. The Dakar has been staged in Saudi Arabia since 2020, and reports indicate Morocco is under consideration as an alternative venue, which would mark the first time the event has been held on the African continent since 2007.
Why it matters
For brands: Sponsors tied to the Saudi Arabia staging of the event may need to reassess activations and regional marketing plans.
For media: Broadcasters and credentialed media will need to adjust coverage plans once the replacement host territory is officially announced.
For athletes: Competitors and teams must prepare for a different terrain and logistics than the previously announced Saudi Arabia course.
Read the full story at Yahoo Sports
Sources
- Yahoo Sports: Dakar Rally off-road race moved out of Saudi Arabia over 'developments' in Middle East