In a moment that could not have been more symbolic, KTM has once again proven why it remains one of the most resilient and capable motorcycle manufacturers in the world. At the 2026 Dakar Rally — motorsport’s ultimate test of endurance, engineering, and belief — Red Bull KTM Factory Racing emerged victorious in the most decisive way imaginable.
 
Luciano Benavides claimed overall Dakar Rally victory by just two seconds after nearly two weeks of relentless competition across Saudi Arabia. Riding the KTM 450 RALLY, the Argentine fought until the very last kilometer, demonstrating not only exceptional talent but the reliability, competitiveness, and fighting spirit that have long defined KTM machinery. It was a victory built on persistence, teamwork, and trust in the brand — values that extend far beyond the race bivouac.
 
This win marks KTM’s 21st Dakar Rally title, reinforcing a legacy that spans decades and generations. It also continues a remarkable family tradition for the Benavides name, following earlier Dakar wins by Luciano’s brother Kevin. In an era where questions are often asked about the future of manufacturers in a changing industry, KTM’s performance at Dakar offers a clear and reassuring answer: the company remains deeply committed, technically strong, and fully capable of winning at the highest level.
 
Behind the headline victory, KTM’s broader Dakar story was equally reassuring. Daniel Sanders, despite carrying injuries during the second week of the rally, pushed through pain and adversity to finish an impressive fifth overall. His determination reflected the depth of KTM’s factory program and the resilience of its riders — champions who finish races even when circumstances turn against them.

 

 
For Edgar Canet, Dakar 2026 marked a major step forward. Competing in RallyGP for the first time, the young Spaniard immediately demonstrated KTM’s ability to nurture the next generation of elite talent. Winning the prologue, stage one, and the final stage — and becoming the youngest stage winner in bike category history — Canet’s performance sent a clear message about KTM’s future pipeline. Even after setbacks, the speed and competitiveness of the KTM package never faded.
 
Team Manager Andreas Hölzl summed it up best: Dakar is never over until the final meter. KTM fought every one of them.

 

Importantly, KTM’s success was not limited to the factory team. In Rally2, Toni Mulec secured class victory aboard the KTM 450 RALLY REPLICA, confirming the strength of KTM’s customer racing program. In the demanding Malle Moto category, Benjamin Melot finally claimed Dakar victory after years of near-misses — another testament to the durability and competitiveness of KTM machinery in the harshest conditions imaginable.

 

When the dust settled in Saudi Arabia, the message was unmistakable. KTM did not merely survive Dakar 2026 — it dominated key categories, supported riders at every level, and delivered one of the closest and most compelling victories in the event’s history.

 

As Red Bull KTM Factory Racing now turns its focus to the remainder of the rally-raid season, the foundation is clear: a proven motorcycle, a deep roster of talent, and a racing philosophy built on perseverance and belief. In a sport where only the strongest endure, KTM has once again shown that it is not only still here — it is still winning.

Images Courtesy: Edo Bauer

For riders, fans, and the wider motorcycle world,
Dakar 2026 stands as a powerful reassurance:
KTM orange future remains bright.

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