The 2026 Dakar Rally, motorsport’s most gruelling test, is underway in Saudi Arabia, and Indian fans have multiple compelling reasons to tune in.
You can catch all the high-octane action live on the official Dakar Rally YouTube channel, which streams daily highlights, stage summaries, and in-depth coverage.
This year, the Indian flag flies high with several key participants. All eyes are on pioneering driver Sanjay Takale, who is making his second successive Dakar appearance. As the first and only Indian to compete on four wheels, his journey in the Classic category is a historic effort for the nation.
Meanwhile, Harith Noah leads the charge on two wheels, embarking on his impressive seventh Dakar campaign. His experience and speed make him India’s strongest contender for a top finish in the bike category.
India’s presence extends beyond individual athletes. Hero MotoSports, the rally raid team from one of the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturers, Hero MotoCorp, fields a strong factory squad with legitimate stage-winning potential. Additionally, the Jaguar Land Rover team, part of the Tata Group, competes with the powerful Defender in the Challenger class, showcasing another significant Indian connection.
From the sands of Saudi Arabia to screens across India, this year’s Dakar offers a thrilling narrative of Indian grit, corporate prowess, and global ambition. Tune in to YouTube and cheer on our champions as they take on the desert.
