The 2027 Dakar Rally will move out of Saudi Arabia amid regional security concerns, marking a temporary break in the Kingdom’s seven-year run as host of the world-famous motorsport event.
Scheduled for January 1–15, 2027, the rally is expected to proceed at a new location, with organisers preparing to announce further details. The decision follows discussions between event organisers and Saudi motorsport authorities over the security situation in the region.
Dakar Rally 2027 to move to a new location
Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), which organises the Dakar Rally alongside Saudi Motorsport Company (SMC), confirmed that the 2027 edition would not take place in Saudi Arabia.
The decision was coordinated with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, with support from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM).
Organisers have described the relocation as an exceptional, one-off measure rather than a permanent withdrawal from Saudi Arabia. Preparations are continuing to ensure the competition can take place as scheduled.
The new host country and route have yet to be officially confirmed. Reports have suggested a possible return to Africa, but details remain subject to an announcement from organisers.
Regional security concerns prompt relocation
The move comes amid heightened security concerns across the Middle East. The wider regional conflict and attacks linked to Yemen’s Houthi movement have added uncertainty to the planning of major international events.
Organisers considered the situation before deciding to relocate the rally. The decision reflects the challenges of managing a major endurance competition, which requires extensive route planning, medical support, transport arrangements and coordination among teams and host authorities.
The Dakar Rally covers demanding terrain and involves competitors travelling through remote areas. Ensuring the safety of participants, staff and support crews is therefore central to preparations.
The relocation will require organisers to adapt logistical arrangements while keeping the January 2027 schedule in place.
Could the Dakar Rally return to Africa?
Africa has emerged as a possible destination in specialist motorsport reports, although no official route has been announced.
One reported possibility involves a start in Spain and a finish in Morocco. However, this remains unconfirmed and should not be treated as the final itinerary.
First held in 1978, the Dakar Rally originally ran from Paris to Dakar, Senegal, giving the competition its name. Security concerns led to the cancellation of the 2008 edition shortly before it was due to begin.
The event moved to South America in 2009 before establishing a new home in Saudi Arabia in 2020. A return to Africa would mark another significant change in its history, bringing the competition closer to the continent associated with its early years.
Competitors and teams will need to await official details before finalising travel and preparation plans.
Saudi Arabia expected to host the rally again in 2028
Saudi Arabia is expected to return as host in 2028, according to organisers plans. That edition will mark the 50th running of the Dakar Rally, making it a major milestone for the competition.
Since 2020, the Kingdom has hosted seven consecutive editions, showcasing its varied landscapes and strengthening its position on the international motorsport calendar.
The planned return in 2028 indicates that the 2027 move is intended to be temporary. Organisers and their Saudi partners are expected to continue working together towards the landmark edition.
Attention now turns to the announcement of the 2027 host location and route. These details will shape preparations for competitors and determine how the next edition of the demanding endurance race will unfold.