EBRO Returns to Dakar Rally in 2026: A Bold New Chapter Begins!

Ebro, Spain - As anticipation builds for the 2026 Dakar Rally, slated to run from January 3 to 17 in Saudi Arabia, two prominent automotive brands are set to make significant splashes. EBRO, the Spanish car manufacturer, has formally announced its official entry into the rally. Intriguingly, this comes on the heels of their previous participation in the 2022 event, where they showcased their „Dakar Future“ strategy with an electric vehicle. EBRO aims for a commendable finish in the T1+ category, which ranks as the highest in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). EBRO has set its sights on establishing a long-term commitment to this prestigious arena, where bravery, teamwork, and determination can shine.

The brand hopes to capitalize on its rich history while introducing new technical advancements in its upcoming vehicle. Pedro Calef, the CEO of EBRO Motors, carries a torch of enthusiasm as he leads the charge into this iconic rally season. Notably, the specific details about the car and the team composition are yet to be unveiled, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Land Rover Joins the Race

Meanwhile, Land Rover is pulling its weight in this thrilling motorsport landscape. The well-regarded company will introduce three Defender Octa vehicles at the 2026 Dakar Rally, showcasing their engineering prowess and commitment to off-road excellence. Land Rover’s Defender Octa is no ordinary vehicle; it boasts a powerful 626 hp, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine sourced from BMW, making it the fastest and most capable Defender to date.

The Defender Octa will tackle the ‚Stock‘ racing category, which accommodates more road-going features thanks to recent regulation changes. James Barclay, JLR Motorsport’s managing director, expressed a keen excitement for the challenge ahead, highlighting the opportunity to demonstrate the enduring capabilities of the Defender on rugged terrains.

Foundation and Support

The competition-specification Defender vehicles will not be available for retail, but they embody a rich legacy of purpose-driven design combined with a respect for tradition. Not only does the Defender range accommodate various body styles, but it has long been intertwined with humanitarian efforts through partnerships that have existed since 1948, as pointed out by Land Rover.

Though the Defender will not compete in the Dakar until 2026, it played a vital role in the 2025 rally, supporting race officials and media personnel across the Saudi landscape with a fleet of 20 vehicles. Leading into 2026, six specialized recce vehicles will assist the organizers in plotting the challenging routes for not just this year, but also future events through 2028.

In conclusion, the stage is set for an enthralling Dakar Rally season. With EBRO’s committed entry and Land Rover’s dynamic Defender Octa set to conquer the landscapes, motorsport enthusiasts have much to look forward to. As details emerge about the teams and their respective vehicles, one thing is clear: both brands promise to deliver a captivating blend of adrenaline and ambition on the world’s most grueling racetrack.