The Dakar Rally may be preparing for another change of venue. Following seven editions in Saudi Arabia, Reuters reported on 21 October 2026 that the 2027 rally could move to Europe and Morocco, with a proposed start date of 9 January and a finish on 22 January. The reported format includes a European prologue followed by competition in Morocco.
As of 22 October 2026, organisers had yet to officially confirm the revised route. If the move proceeds, the change would set the stage for an event that has repeatedly adapted to changing circumstances while preserving its reputation as one of motorsport’s greatest tests of endurance.
Saudi Arabia has hosted the Dakar Rally since 2020, providing the desert terrain for seven editions of the competition. The Kingdom’s contribution remains an important part of Dakar’s modern history.
According to Reuters, sources involved in the championship have linked the proposed relocation to the current security situation in the Middle East. Organisers have yet to officially confirm the change.
Security considerations have influenced Dakar’s location before. The 2008 edition was cancelled following threats against the event, prompting its move to South America in 2009.
Any new route would require organisers to work closely with host-country authorities on safety preparations. A Moroccan edition would also introduce different logistical requirements for participating teams.
Dakar gives automotive manufacturers an opportunity to demonstrate vehicle endurance under extreme conditions. Specialist suppliers, tyre manufacturers, lubricant brands and aftermarket businesses gain exposure to an international audience.
Photo: Shixart1985, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
A Moroccan edition could bring additional business to local hotels and automotive service providers. Participating teams would also have to adapt their logistics to the new location.
Photo: niconico0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
The scale of these opportunities will depend on the confirmed route and the number of participants. Dakar has already adapted to major changes, moving to South America in 2009 and then to Saudi Arabia in 2020.
If the proposed 2027 relocation proceeds, it will mark another change of venue for the rally.
The real test for Dakar in 2027 may be as much about the decisions made behind the scenes as the kilometres covered in the desert.
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