Podcasts about Dakar Rally

On this episode, Cory reaches out to Mercedes Lilienthal to catch up with her about her trip to Saudi Arabia for the Dakar Rally.If you want to know more about this week's guest, Mercedes supplied us with their bios down below:Keep up with them:Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CrankshaftCulture.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to our YouTube Channel so you never miss a Car Review⁠⁠⁠⁠Be sure to join the discussion on any of our social media pages.Share your stories on any of the platforms listed below.Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@GTGarageTalk⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@GTGarageTalk⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@GTGarageTalk⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@GTGarageTalk⁠⁠⁠⁠Or send us an email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠GTGarageTalk@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠You can read more on our website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠GTGarageTalk.com⁠⁠⁠⁠Support our Podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠GTGarageTalk.com/support⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Buy Garage Talk Merch!⁠⁠⁠⁠If you liked that episode and would like to hear more, head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/GTGarageTalk⁠⁠⁠⁠ and sign up on our 1LT Camaro tier and you will be granted access to TheAftermarket, extra content recorded after each new episode. You'll get to hear just a little more about what Cory and guests are like when making an episode of GT: Garage Talk. If that's not enough, browse through our many other tiers and see what perks come with each level.We appreciate you all, we thank you for listening

Seven-time winner of the legendary Baja 1000, Mark Samuels is one of the toughest racers to ever conquer the desert.From his motocross roots to competing in the grueling Dakar Rally , Samuels built his career on grit and speed, and now leads the charge as owner of the SLR Honda race team, continuing his winning legacy both on and off the bike.

Sand roosts. Moving cities. Split-second calls. We sit down with Mercedes Lilienthal for an unfiltered look at the Dakar Rally—what it is, how it really works, and why accuracy can matter as much as speed. From Saudi bivouacs that can rebuild cars overnight to the reimagined stock class spearheaded by Defender, Mercedes shows how a modern OEM program comes together under tight regulations, compressed timelines, and the relentless pressure of 13 stages.We pull back the curtain on the logistics: when a bivouac loops vs leaps, what a “marathon” day does to crews, and how three full-size spares can still feel like not enough. You'll hear how spectators find safe vantage points, why photographers always plan escape routes, and how even a royal visit can reroute a live stage. Mercedes explains the craft behind regularity and TSD rallying—holding speed, nailing time, and staying on course—plus why that style of precision racing is so addictive for data-driven drivers and navigators.Then we look ahead. Mercedes and Andy gear up for the new Colorado Adventure Rally and a summer Alcan 5000 that stretches more than 6,000 miles if you opt into every challenge, reaching the Arctic Ocean and back. We switch lanes to auctions with a sharp breakdown of Barrett-Jackson vs Mecum—no-reserve drama vs reserve strategy, sell-through rates, and who buys what—and close with a driver-focused review of the 2026 Mazda CX-50, a compact SUV with standout handling, a willing turbo four, standard AWD, and an infotainment system that still needs polish. Finally, we honor Ed “Isky” Iskenderian, the Camfather whose matched sets and bold ideas powered generations of racers and hot-rodders.If you love rally raids, overlanding, OEM motorsport programs, classic car auctions, or just well-sorted everyday vehicles, this one's for you. Follow the show, share it with a friend who dreams in dunes and stage notes, and leave a quick review—what part of Dakar's ecosystem fascinates you most?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com

On this week's 'Good Things with Brent Lindeque', we sit down with Joey Evans, a man whose journey reads like something out of a movie, except every hard-earned step, scar, and triumph is real. Joey's life changed forever after a motorbike accident left him paralysed from the chest down, with doctors telling him that he would never walk again. Instead of surrendering to the limits placed in front of him, Joey chose to chase a dream he had carried since childhood: competing in the Dakar Rally, widely regarded as the toughest off-road motorsport event on the planet. What followed was a ten-year odyssey filled with physical recovery, emotional battles, setbacks that would break most spirits and a level of determination that is genuinely humbling to witness. Against all expectations, Joey learned to walk again, rebuilt his life piece by piece and ultimately qualified for the Dakar Rally, achieving something most able-bodied riders will only ever dream of. The story did not end at the starting line, though, and in many ways, the greatest challenge was still waiting. After riding nearly 9,000 kilometres across brutal South American terrain, with exhaustion etched into every kilometre, disaster struck just two days from the finish when Joey's bike was destroyed by a rally car. Stranded, injured, and seemingly out of the race, that moment could have easily become the closing chapter. Instead, through sheer will, ingenuity, and an unshakable belief in finishing what he started, Joey found a way forward and crossed that finish line, a moment that went on to capture hearts and headlines around the world. Since that extraordinary achievement, Joey has continued to share his story far beyond the race itself. He has written a best-selling book that delves deeper into the lessons forged along the way, and in 2024, he was inducted into the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa Speakers Hall of Fame, recognising not just what he has overcome but the impact his words and lived experience now have on others. Joey is also one of those rare humans who carries all of this without ego or bravado. He is humble, kind, deeply present, and a really flipping lekker guy to spend time with. I walked away from this conversation inspired, energised, and more convinced than ever that you are going to love this poddie... and quite possibly want to be Joey's best friend too.

During Race Industry Week by EPARTRADE, Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Racing, delivers a comprehensive update on Ford's most ambitious motorsports expansion in decades—spanning Formula 1, Le Mans Hypercar, Dakar Rally, Mustang racing, and advanced electric performance demonstrators.Rushbrook outlines how Ford has unified all global motorsports operations under the Ford Racing banner, integrating engineering, marketing, and production performance to accelerate real-time technology transfer from the racetrack to the road.

On this episode, Arnaud Martinez, CEO of The Helicopter Company (THC), joins Mo to unpack the company's meteoric rise and its critical role in supporting Saudi Vision 2030.Arnaud takes us behind the scenes of the complex aerial logistics powering giga-projects like NEOM and the Red Sea, the life-saving impact of THC's national Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), and the high-stakes operations behind global events such as the Dakar Rally.The conversation also dives into the psychology of aviation safety, how accountability and human factors shape decision-making in the air, and THC's long-term commitment to developing Saudi aviation talent. Arnaud also shares his personal journey—from a French pilot to an executive helping lead the Kingdom's aerial transformation. 0:00  Intro  2:27  Filling the Market Gap in the Kingdom  4:08  From Pilot to CEO  5:28  Addressing Fear & Helicopter Safety  8:55  Moving to Saudi Arabia  13:45 Witnessing Saudi Vision 2030 in Action  15:58 Powering Major Events  18:20 Investing in Saudi Talent  21:55 Accountability & Human Factors in Aviation  35:36 Why Saudi Is a Unique Aviation Landscape  38:32 Hajj & Large-Scale Logistics  46:18 Saving Lives Through HEMS  50:49 Advice for Aviation Professionals  53:42 Personal Inspirations  58:33 Closing  

Join hosts Steve Beres and Ike Goss in this episode of Underpowered Hour as they discuss Land Rover's surprising performance in the Dakar Rally, dissect the complexities of automotive paint, and share their thoughts on Range Rover's newest London-inspired editions. Whether you're a Land Rover enthusiast or keen on learning about vehicle paint processes, this episode is packed with insights and humor. Tune in as Steve and Ike navigate through a range of topics, from vintage restorations to modern luxury. Visit theberescollection.com and follow them on Instagram @theberescollection or @pangolin4x4 to stay updated on their adventures.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Background01:19 Land Rover's Victory at Dakar Rally04:30 Discussion on Stock Class Racing07:22 Special Edition Range Rovers13:09 Land Rover's Custom Shop and Paint Innovations19:02 Introduction to Land Rover Paint19:40 Understanding Paint Preferences20:31 Challenges of Painting Vintage Land Rovers21:25 Restoration Shops and Reproduction Panels22:56 Aluminum and Paint Adhesion25:55 Matching and Maintaining Paint30:31 Paint Quality Over the Decades34:07 Evaluating Paint When Buying a Car42:10 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

Krunching Gears - The Rally Podcast, 2026 Season, episode 3. Helen Tait Wright and Marcella Kirk talk to us about their recent exploits on the 2026 Dakar Rally, taking on more than 8,000 kilometres of punishing terrain, extreme temperatures, and relentless navigation challenges, against a field dominated by seasoned international teams, they secured an impressive finish in their class in their specially modified 1988 Land Rover Defender 110, affectionately known as “Purdey.” Helen and Marcella wanted to thank: Chris Stodel, Felix Prendergast, Jonathan Lane, family & friends who have lived the adventure from Day 1 and the staff at Marcella's business who kept things running while they were away. Their sponsors include: Eurospare parts, Allisport Ltd, Exol Lubricants, Teng Tools, Giti Tire, Santana Trophy, World Storytelling Café, RJ Auto Electrical, 4 x Proyect, Flarespace, Mahker, Red Canoe Brands, Exmoor Trim, Deja Vu Bar and Tapas, Solihull Sisterhood, Safety Devices, Empire Tuning, Demand Engineering, Arrow Precision Engineering, Marsland Chassis, Blue Lizard Signs, Stauff UK, Coburn Fasteners, TM Pearson, GTF Automotive.

The Dakar Rally is over, but the work behind rally raid never stops. In this episode of Chasing Waypoints, Victor Orellana pulls back the curtain on what actually goes into organizing a rally—long before the first rider ever leaves the start line.From reconnaissance days in the desert to waypoint validation and route safety, this conversation explores the invisible systems that define whether a rally is fair, challenging, and survivable. These decisions shape everything from navigation difficulty to rider confidence, especially in environments as unforgiving as the Sonoran Desert.You'll gain a clearer understanding of why recce matters, how waypoints are verified, and why many competitors measure success not by podiums, but by simply finishing. The episode also touches on upcoming events like Sonora Rally–related activities, SoCal Rally community energy, notable performances such as Preston Campbell's second-place finish, and how rallies like the Africa Eco Race continue Dakar's original spirit.If you follow rally raid—or are trying to understand what separates real rally racing from surface-level highlights—this episode provides context that most coverage skips.Explore more at ChasingWaypoints.com and follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes updates and long-form rally education.https://www.nwroadbooks.com/https://www.chasingwaypoints.com/gear.html

Summary: The Grip Strip Podcast Episode 299 discusses key events from the NFL Divisional Round, coaching changes, and updates from various motorsport events. NFL Divisional Round recap highlights significant playoff outcomes and coaching news. 49ers defeated opponents while Coach Bob Saleh heads to Tennessee. Player injuries noted include Charbonnet's torn ACL and Bo Nix's setback. Bills' loss leads to Sean McDermott's firing. New England struggles against Houston and Stroud. LA Rams win in overtime after a late comeback by Chicago. Updates provided on NASCAR, Dakar Rally, Chili Bowl, San Diego Supercross, WRC Rally Monte Carlo, and Rolex 24 at Daytona. Preview of NFL Championship Weekend and predictions shared.

Summary: The podcast discusses recent events in the NFL, NASCAR, and other motorsport highlights, focusing on playoffs, coaching changes, and upcoming races. Steve Phelps has departed from NASCAR. Review of Week 18 NFL games and thoughts on team performance. Analysis of playoff matchups in the NFL. Reflection on Black Monday and Tuesday regarding coaching and GM changes. Overview of the Dakar Rally and Formula E Mexico City E Prix. Discussion of the Chili Bowl event. Predictions for NFL Wild Card Weekend picks. Josh's Sim Segment

Summary The Grip Strip Podcast Episode 298 discusses NASCAR's return to the Chase format, highlights NFL Wild Card outcomes, and reviews various motorsport events. Major Points NASCAR reinstates the Chase format for its major series, with specific driver and race allocations. Changed scoring: 55 points for a win, no playoff points or 'win and in' rules. Announcement of sponsorships and Tony Stewart's return to drive a Craftsman Truck at Daytona. Review of NFL Wild Card Weekend and coaching changes, including Harbaugh's firing and Tomlin stepping down. Highlights of notable motorsport events like Dakar Rally, Formula E, and IMSA's Roar Before The 24.

In this week's episode, Martin and Steve talk Dakar following Defender's excellent result in the Stock class at the 2026 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia and the huge positive effect the result has had for owners of all ages of Land Rover.Martin explains his 200Tdi conversion woes – the engine he's spent the last few months fitting has no oil pressure when warm, and the issue he's found is worst-case scenario.There's a trio of listener's questions, Feature of the Week and Product of the Week – send any questions or feedback to editorial@lrm.co.uk – we love to hear from you.Enjoy the episode.

Episode 97: SUPERCARS | F1 | NASCAR | DAKAR | INDYCAR We're back with a bang and this episode has it all! Discussing the wind tunnel testing from Supercars, Chucky's mammoth effort at the Dakar Rally, all things F1, NASCAR returns to the chase and Will Power gets his first laps in an Andretti IndyCar. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/apexhunters Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee. https://www.4wdsupacentre.com.au/ Get yaself some AHU merch: https://apexhuntersunited.com/ Patreon: / apexhuntersunited Discount code: AHU15 for 15% off at: https://www.eastcoastcarrentals.com.au/ http://www.lancastermotors.com.au/ https://www.tricoproducts.com.au/ https://www.shawandpartners.com.au/home Quad Lock: https://bit.ly/3QLeiV5 00:00:00 INTRO 00:04:56 SUPERCARS WIND TUNNEL 00:15:03 MANUFACTURER BATTLE 00:25:36 NASCAR 00:36:25 INDYCAR 00:41:25 DAKAR 00:50:09 F1

(0:00) Welcome to Title 24.(1:03) Heartbreaker for Ricky Brabec on the last stage of the 2026 Dakar Rally. (5:15) Eli Tomac wins 2 in a row.(14:36) Let's talk about the start and Chase Sexton.(18:36) Do you think people underestimate Hunter Lawrence?(24:28) How about Malcolm Stewart.(27:48) RV about Cooper Webb "I think he is going to have to start running up front."(31:47) Should everyone stop the criticism and appreciate the skill.(39:07) If you could have the ear of anyone in the 250 of 450 field, who would it be and what advice do you have for him?(43:24) Ricky, as past team owner, do you appreciate inner team conflict and how do you manage the emotions going forward? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Stephen Beres and Ike Goss on this week's episode of 'The Underpowered Hour' as they give an update on the Dakar Rally progress, including Land Rover's standing in various classes and the tough competition they face. They also discuss the UK's GDP improvement, partially credited to Jaguar Land Rover, and delve into Ike's New Year's off-roading adventure in the Pacific Northwest featuring an array of Land Rovers tackling challenging trails. Tune in for an exciting mix of racing updates, economic insights, and off-roading tales.

The final stage of the Dakar Rally 2026 is here — and with just 105 kilometers left to race, every second matters.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down Stage 13, previewing the decisive battles across Rally GP, Rally 2, Ultimate Class, and SSV, and explaining exactly what it will take for competitors to defend — or steal — a Dakar podium position.In Rally GP, Ricky Brabec enters the final stage holding the overall lead, while Luciano Benavides faces the math of the moment — needing to claw back roughly 30 seconds every 10 miles to challenge for the win. With terrain that favors speed and familiarity, the stage sets up a final, high-pressure showdown.In Rally 2, the battle remains tight between Tony Mullick and Preston Campbell, while the Ultimate Class still has a fight brewing for the final podium spot. The SSV category also remains competitive, with consistency and clean execution likely deciding the outcome.This episode covers:Full Stage 13 course expectationsFinal time gaps and championship mathKey battles in Rally GP, Rally 2, Ultimate & SSVWhy gaps are larger than usual this yearTerrain and navigation factors for the final pushWhat strategies make sense — and which don't — this lateStage 13 isn't about experimenting.It's about protecting position, executing cleanly, and not giving Dakar one last opportunity to take everything away.

SummaryIn this episode, Victor Orellana wraps up the thrilling 2026 Dakar Rally, highlighting the intense competition and dramatic moments that defined the event. He reflects on Ricky Brabeck's heartbreaking near-victory, losing the title by just two seconds after a navigational error just kilometers from the finish line. Despite the disappointment, Orellana celebrates the achievements of other competitors, particularly Preston Campbell, who made history by securing a podium finish on his first attempt in the Rally 2 category. The episode captures the essence of rally racing, emphasizing the unpredictability and excitement that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.The Dakar Rally 2026 came down to one of the most dramatic finishes in rally history — decided by just two seconds and a single note in the road book.In this final wrap-up episode, Victor Orellana breaks down the moments that defined Dakar 2026, from the heartbreak of Ricky Brabec narrowly missing the overall victory, to the historic breakthrough of Preston Campbell, who secured a podium finish on his first Dakar attempt in the Rally 2 category.Despite Brabec's disappointment, the rally crowned Luciano Benavides as the overall winner — a result that perfectly captures the unforgiving nature of Dakar, where nothing is decided until the final kilometer.This episode covers:The final stage results and overall standingsHow Dakar was decided by two secondsRicky Brabec's near-victory and late navigation errorPreston Campbell's historic Rally 2 podiumKey performances across motorcycles and vehiclesWhy Dakar remains the pinnacle of rally racingDakar 2026 delivered everything the sport promises: endurance, precision, heartbreak, and triumph — all in the same breath.

Stage 12 of the Dakar Rally 2026 represents a critical moment in the rally, where accumulated fatigue, injuries, and pressure collide with demanding terrain and difficult navigation. With overall standings still in play, this stage has the potential to define the final outcome of Dakar 2026.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down the Stage 12 course, highlighting the mix of sand, dirt tracks, and rocky sections that will test competitors late in the rally. Navigation remains a decisive factor, with tricky transitions, limited visual references, and vigilance points that can quickly punish even small mistakes.Safety is a major theme heading into Stage 12. As riders push through injuries and fatigue, difficult terrain and technical navigation demand restraint and awareness. Vigilance points call out sections with increased risk, reinforcing that this stage is about execution rather than aggression.This episode covers:Full Stage 12 course breakdownTerrain analysis and what it means for pace and fatigueWhy navigation skills are critical this late in DakarKey vigilance points and safety considerationsThe growing presence and impact of North American competitorsStrategic implications for the overall standingsPredictions for how Stage 12 could shape the final resultsStage 12 isn't just another day in the desert — it's a test of who can stay focused when everything hurts and every mistake counts.

Stage 12 of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered a high-pressure showdown as the rally heads into its final day, with razor-thin margins, mechanical drama, and championship implications across multiple categories.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down the Stage 12 results, led by another commanding performance from Ricky Brabec, who secured yet another Rally GP stage win aboard his Monster Energy Honda. With just over 100 kilometers remaining in the rally, Brabec continues to assert control at the top of the standings.Behind him, the fight remains intense. Luciano Benavides and Tosha Schareina remain firmly in contention as the final gaps stay tight heading into Stage 13.One of the most dramatic stories of the day came from Skyler Howes, who suffered significant mechanical issues after his bike began losing oil. Despite the setback, Howes managed to nurse the bike to the finish — a true Dakar survival ride that underscores just how unforgiving this rally can be.This episode also covers:Full Stage 12 Rally GP results and standingsMechanical issues and how they shape Dakar outcomesRally 2 highlights, including strong performances from Preston CampbellKey results across vehicle and support categoriesWhat to expect as Dakar 2026 heads into its final stageStage 12 reinforces a core Dakar truth: speed matters, but survival, discipline, and execution decide championships.

Stage 11 of the Dakar Rally 2026 is a classic late-rally test—long, fast, and mentally demanding—where positioning, visibility, and navigation discipline matter more than outright aggression.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down Stage 11, a day dominated by dirt tracks, dust, rocks, and vegetation, with a long transfer before the racing even begins. Fatigue is real at this point in the rally, and Stage 11 is designed to quietly punish lapses in focus.Navigation becomes tricky as dust clouds reduce visibility and vegetation obscures reference points. The stage is expected to favor riders starting further back, where cleaner air can make roadbook execution easier. Vigilance points mark areas of increased risk, particularly where speed, dust, and limited sightlines combine.A major storyline heading into Stage 11 is Daniel Sanders, who continues to compete despite a serious injury—underscoring just how deep into survival mode Dakar becomes this late in the event.This episode covers:Full Stage 11 course compositionWhy dust and vegetation complicate navigationHow start position affects performanceVigilance points and safety concernsExpected race timing, with the first bike due back around 2:43 PMWhy the final section is fast but still deceptiveStrategic implications as Dakar approaches the finishStage 11 isn't about hero moves—it's about staying clean, seeing clearly, and managing risk when exhaustion is at its highest.

In this episode of Chasing Waypoints, Darren Skilton joins Victor Orellana for an in-depth conversation about what it really takes to race the Dakar Rally.Often called the Everest of off-road racing, Dakar is far more than just speed. Darren breaks down the realities of Dakar participation — from long-term financial planning and physical and mental preparation, to logistics, team structure, and the importance of building a reliable vehicle and support crew.The discussion also explores how North American racers are increasingly finding a pathway to Dakar through events like the Sonora Rally, which mirrors Dakar-style navigation, terrain, and discipline. Darren shares his personal journey to Dakar, common misconceptions that derail first-time applicants, and why consistency, judgment, and preparation matter more than outright pace.This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering Dakar — whether your goal is to compete, support a team, or simply understand how the world's toughest rally actually works behind the scenes.What Dakar organizers really look for in competitorsWhy Dakar requires years of planning — not just fundingHow Sonora Rally fits into the Dakar pathwayThe true cost of Dakar beyond the entry feeWhy team dynamics and organization matter as much as riding skillAdvice for aspiring rally racers in North America

Stage 11 of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered one of the most meaningful moments of the rally — Skyler Howes secured his first-ever Dakar stage win, clocking the fastest time aboard his Monster Energy Honda.In this episode, Victor breaks down the Stage 11 results, highlighting Howes' milestone victory and the razor-thin margins at the front of the Rally GP field. Adrien Van Beveren finished just 21 seconds behind, underscoring how tight the competition has become as Dakar 2026 enters its final stretch. Edgar Canet also delivered a standout performance inside the top group.This episode also dives into:Full Stage 11 bike results and top-10 breakdownWhy this win is a career milestone for Skyler HowesRally GP overall standings and tightening time gapsRally 2 highlights, with Tony Mollick, Ventura, and Doherty separated by minimal marginsThe impact of injuries on riders like Daniel Sanders, who continues to push through painWhat Stage 11 tells us heading into the final stages of Dakar 2026As the rally approaches its conclusion, momentum, health, and discipline matter more than ever — and Stage 11 may be remembered as a defining turning point.

The U-S evacuate personnel from a mideast base as Trump mulls over military strikes on Iran ; Calls for Tasmania to support tougher gun laws at the federal level ; and in sport, Australia's Daniel Sanders ignores broken bones to battle on in the Dakar Rally.

The U-S evacuated personnel from a mideast base as Trump mulls over military strikes on Iran; calls for Tasmania to support tougher gun laws at the federal level ; and in sport, * Australia's Daniel Sanders ignores broken bones to battle on in the Dakar Rally.

Stage 10 of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered one of the biggest turning points of the rally so far, with dramatic moments in the dunes reshaping both stage results and the overall standings.In this episode, Victor breaks down everything that happened on Stage 10, from key crashes and recoveries to major shifts at the top of the leaderboard across bikes, vehicles, and Rally 2.On two wheels, Adrien Van Beveren claimed the Stage 10 victory, while Daniel Sanders suffered a costly crash in the dunes that saw him lose the overall lead and drop to fourth. In a true Dakar moment, Ricky Brabec stopped to assist Sanders and later had his time returned—an action that now places Brabec at the top of the overall standings after Stage 10.In the car category, Nasser Al-Attiyah capitalized on the day's chaos to regain the overall lead, while tight margins continue to define the fight across the field.This episode also covers:Full Stage 10 bike and vehicle resultsHow the dunes reshaped the overall standingsWhy Stage 10 became a defining Dakar momentRally 2 highlights, including Preston Campbell leading the categoryThe role of safety and race control, with five helicopters active on the stageWhat to expect as Dakar 2026 heads into its final, decisive stagesWith standings now incredibly tight and momentum shifting daily, Stage 10 may be remembered as the day Dakar truly changed direction.

Stage 10 of the Dakar Rally 2026 marks a decisive moment in the rally as competitors push deeper into the marathon phase and begin fighting to lock in podium positions.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down Stage 10, focusing on the route layout, dune-heavy terrain, navigation challenges, and the strategies riders and crews must adopt to survive a long, sandy day.This stage features a high percentage of dunes, creating a completely different rhythm compared to previous days. Navigation becomes critical, especially with limited visual references and the constant risk of getting lost in dune fields. Steep dune descents, soft sand, and technical transitions push both bikes and vehicles to their limits.A key storyline for Stage 10 is the route split between motorcycles and vehicles. Bikes take a more direct line, while vehicles face longer, more complex navigation, increasing the importance of discipline and communication. Vigilance points are highlighted throughout the briefing, with special attention paid to animal camps and safety zones that require caution even at speed.This episode covers:Full Stage 10 course overviewWhy dunes dominate the day and what that means for paceNavigation risks and getting lost in dune systemsDifferences between bike and vehicle routesKey vigilance points and safety concernsStrategic implications as the rally enters its final stretchPredictions for how Stage 10 could reshape the podium battleStage 10 isn't about dramatic attacks — it's about execution. With fatigue building and margins shrinking, the competitors who stay clean and patient will gain the biggest advantage.

Stage Nine of the Dakar Rally 2026 marks the first half of the final Marathon Stage, and with it comes a noticeable shift in strategy, pressure, and risk for competitors across all categories.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down the Stage 9 results, including key performances in the bike and car categories, insights into Rally 2 standings, and what the evolving marathon format means for the days ahead.On two wheels, Tosha Schareina led Stage 9 with a winning time of 3:45:42, while Daniel Sanders and Doherty followed closely behind, keeping the overall fight extremely tight among the leaders.The overall standings remain razor close, especially among the top three, as the marathon stage continues to reward discipline, clean navigation, and smart tire management over outright aggression. In the car category, Carlos Sainz sits in a strong position as the rally moves deeper into its decisive phase.This episode covers:Full Stage 9 results across bikes and carsWhy Stage 9 is the first half of the final Marathon StageHow the new bivouac setup adds pressure and complexityRally 2 performances and why the category mattersTight overall standings and strategic implicationsWhat to watch as competitors head into the next stagesStage 9 doesn't end the rally — but it absolutely defines how the final chapters will be written.

(0:00) Welcome to Title 24.(2:15) The last week of the 2-week 2026 Dakar Rally is on its way.   #9 Ricky Brabec (USA) is now in 2nd in the bike division. (3:07) Does Eli “look better” on a KTM than a Yamaha?(11:31) Is there is merit to what Prado was talking about last year or is it just Chase being Chase? (20:29) RV and RC share their thoughts on the #1 plate Cooper Webb at Anaheim 1?(24:59) What about the Suzuki boys?(34:13) It's Max Anstie not Haiden Deegan that is going to have the red plate next week.(40:08) What do you think of Chance Hymas ripping it up on the starts?(43:12) Hey! First time SMX podium for RYDER DEFRANCESCO!(45:56) "And then the chef….Are we getting Wagyu or Hamburger Helper?" RV speaking about Levi Kithchen.(49:36) Did you see the McAdoo crash with Haiden Deegan?(54:46) Do you think track design was partly to blame for the Malcolm/Barcia incident?(1:05:10) What are your thoughts on riders wearing action cameras?  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join hosts Steve Beres and Ike Goss as they discuss their latest projects and share updates from the Land Rover community. This week, they delve into the story of a Norwegian enthusiast struggling with bureaucracy to register his restored Series III, and they provide insights into the Land Rover Defender's significant presence in the Dakar Rally. From factory-supported teams to privateer efforts, and the standout performances in the Dakar Classic, this episode covers the highs and lows of Land Rover's latest adventures. Plus, stay tuned for a humorous and in-depth discussion on navigating the challenges of international vehicle registration.

As the Dakar Rally 2026 moves into Stage 9, the rally enters the first half of the Marathon Stage—a critical point where strategy, navigation, and discipline begin to outweigh outright speed.In this episode, Victor Orellana recaps the Stage 8 results and breaks down what to expect from Stage 9, including a detailed look at the course layout, navigation challenges, and how the marathon format can quickly reshape the standings.Stage 9 features separate selective routes for motorcycles and vehicles, adding complexity for all categories. Navigation becomes decisive, with limited references, tricky waypoint sequences, and speed zones that can impose heavy penalties if missed. With an early morning start, fatigue and focus will be tested from the very first kilometers.This episode covers:Why Stage 9 marks the true start of the Marathon StageCourse breakdown and navigation challengesDifferences between motorcycle and vehicle routesCurrent overall standings after Stage 8How Luciano Benavides leads the rally heading into Stage 9Tight competition in the vehicle category, with gaps under ten minutesThe developing battle in the SSV categoryWhy navigation errors and speed zones can cause major time lossesStage 9 is not about attacking—it's about surviving clean. With no assistance and long days ahead, this is where Dakar 2026 begins to sort contenders from casualties.

Stage Eight of the Dakar Rally 2026 pushes the field deeper into the second half of the rally, delivering a long and demanding day that places equal emphasis on navigation, tire management, and strategy.In this Stage 8 briefing, Victor Orellana breaks down a 721-kilometer day, featuring a challenging mix of dirt tracks, sand, and rocky sections that continue to test both riders and machines. With stony terrain already proving tough on tires this year, durability and decision-making become critical.Navigation plays a major role once again, with alternating tracks and HP navigation sections that can quickly catch competitors out. Combined with the introduction of mid-stage tire changes, Stage 8 rewards those who manage pace intelligently rather than pushing blindly.This episode covers:Full Stage 8 course overviewTerrain mix and what it means for speed and fatigueWhy navigation accuracy is decisiveTire management challenges on stony tracksTiming details, including the early 5:10 AM bike startStrategic considerations as Dakar 2026 moves into its later stagesStage 8 may not look extreme on paper, but like many Dakar stages, it's designed to punish in subtle ways. As the rally progresses, preparation and discipline matter more than ever.

Stage Eight of the Dakar Rally 2026 proved to be a pivotal moment in the rally, tightening the overall standings and reinforcing just how competitive Dakar 2026 has become.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down the Stage 8 results, highlighting key performances across motorcycles, vehicles, and SSVs, along with the growing impact of penalties as the rally moves deeper into its second half.On the bike side, Luciano Benavides claimed the Stage 8 victory with a time of 4:26:39, delivering a strong performance in a stage that rewarded speed and control. Ricky Brabec remains firmly in the fight for the overall title, as the battle between KTM and Honda continues to intensify inside the top ten.The vehicle category delivered one of the closest finishes of the rally so far, with gaps measured in seconds rather than minutes, while the SSV category once again showcased just how deep and competitive the field has become.This episode covers:Full Stage 8 motorcycle, vehicle, and SSV resultsHow Stage 8 impacts the overall standingsWhy the marathon stages are a strategic turning pointThe growing role of penalties in shaping Dakar 2026What to watch as the rally heads toward the next stagesWith overall positions tightening and little room for mistakes, Stage 8 reinforces a core Dakar reality: consistency and discipline matter as much as outright speed.

AUDI FIRST TO TEST THEIR 2026 CAR IN BARCELONA! ANOTHER MEETING SCHEDULED OVER THE ENGINE LOOP HOLE ISSUE! TOTO WOLF CONFIDENT MERCEDES HAS DONE IT AGAIN! DAKAR RALLY FIRST WEEK HAS BEEN AN EXCITING FIGHT BETWEEN FORD, DACIA AND TOYOTA…AND FERNANDO SAYS… THIS WEEK'S NASIR HAMEED CORNER…MORE VINTAGE BANTER BETWEEN THE HOST AND NASIR…THIS WEEK WE HAVE PETER WINDSOR OF USF1 FAME…AND OUR BONUS…VENEZUELA'S OWN MILKA DUNO…BRAVO! Smiles for miles as Benavides brothers score historic multi-discipline double! We didn't have to wait long for the 2026 Dakar Rally to serve up a slice of history in its second week. The fastest biker on Stage 7 was Luciano Benavides and the winner of the Challenger stage was his older brother Kevin! The siblings from Salta, Argentina were unbeatable on the 462 kilometres of dunes and fast tracks that stretched between Riyadh and Wadi Ad-Dawasir. A new chapter of the Dakar's near 50-year history has been written, the first time a pair of brothers have won the same stage in different categories! Red Bull KTM Factory Racing biker Luciano Benavides got his second week of the Dakar off to the best possible start. Luciano is riding under his lucky number 77 and this victory on Stage 7 was the seventh stage win of his Dakar career. Things are really starting to add up for the Argentinian biker.   “It's the first time in history that two brothers win in two categories on the same day. This is something incredible!” – Luciano Benavides Luciano was waiting at the Wadi Ad-Dawasir bivouac to congratulate his brother Kevin Benavides on the family's second victory of the day. Kevin is debuting in the Challenger class after switching from two wheels to four. The elder Benavides brother won the Dakar bike race twice. Now he's got his first Dakar stage victory behind a steering wheel. “I never dreamed something like this could happen, I'm so happy for this moment. It was tough to get this victory. When I finished the stage they told me that Luciano had also won! It's a proud day for our family.” – Kevin Benavides Luciano Benavides is currently third overall in the bike race, but just 15 seconds behind Honda rider Ricky Brabec in second. Top of the pile is Benavides's KTM team-mate Daniel Sanders who is over four minutes in front of his nearest rivals. The Australian refused to get sucked into any tactical battle on Stage 7. The day's big mover in the Ultimate class was Mattias Ekström and his Ford Raptor T1+. A stage win for the Swede saw him climb from fourth overall at the Rest Day to hold second place tonight. Ekström scored his maiden podium finish 12 months ago and his sights are firmly fixed on the Dakar's biggest prize of all this time around. “When I got to the end the gaps were bigger than I expected, but still smaller than I wished. Now we're second in the overall and there's a lot of racing left.” – Mattias Ekström   Ultimate class leader Nasser Al-Attiyah goes into tomorrow's 481-kilometre loop stage around the Wadi Ad-Dawasir bivouac with an advantage of 4m47s over Ekström. Al-Attiyah picked up some superficial damage to his Dacia Sandrider on Stage 7 that will need to be repaired before the next jumbo day of racing. “We hit a tree and that completely removed the left corner of our car. That will get fixed tonight.” – Nasser Al-Attiyah The most dramatic moment in the Ultimate class on Stage 7 was provided by Henk Lategan of Toyota Gazoo Racing. The South African had done enough on the way to Wadi Ad-Dawasir to take the overall lead from Al-Attiyah. Then a mechanical issue stopped Lategan in his tracks just shy of the finish line. The Toyota Hilux driver will start Stage 8 sitting fourth overall, now 7m21s behind his Dacia rival. “We were going so well today until we came to a bump and a dip. When we hit the dip it broke the damper. We had to stop to take the old one out and put the new one in.” – Henk Lategan A superb opening week for the Defender Rally Team rolled into the second week with another stage win in the Stock category. It was the Defender Dakar D7X‑R of Stéphane Peterhansel that set the pace giving Monsieur Dakar his third stage win of this Dakar. Peterhansel's team-mate Rokas Baciuška was just 21 seconds off the Frenchman's time and it's the Lithuanian who maintains the overall lead of the Stock class. “For most of the stage the average speed was very high, but there was also a section of open dunes. It was a pleasure to drive this stage, it was perfect for the Defender.” – Stéphane Peterhansel In the SSV class there's still everything to play for in fight for those podium spots. Portugal's Gonçalo Guerreiro is laser-focused on recovering time lost in the first week and promoting himself from fifth overall to the podium on the remaining six stages. “This stage was completely flat out, I think it was the fastest stage until now. At one waypoint we lost two minutes and this put us behind some drivers. Overall, I'm happy with the stage we did. We were just one minute and a half down from the stage winner in the end.” – Gonçalo Guerreiro Also in the SSV class there was a much brighter start to the second week than the first week for Johan Kristoffersson. The eight-time World Rallycross champion is making his Dakar debut and the dune sections of the route are proving to be a highlight for the Swede.   “One puncture very early. We got the tyre changed quicker than before, but there's still room for improvement. Today I really enjoyed the dunes. The rest of the stage was flat out on the limiter.” – Johan Kristoffersson The Dakar Rally has returned to Wadi Ad-Dawasir for the first time since 2022 and the comeback is looking epic. Tomorrow is the longest timed special stage of the 48th edition of the Dakar Rally. The 481-kilometre loop around the Wadi Ad-Dawasir bivouac encompasses a wide variety of terrain. Stage 8 is like a mini Dakar Rally raced over one single day with dunes, fast piste and a host of navigational challenges on the menu plus much else besides! Italian F4 Champion Kean Nakamura-Berta joins the Williams F1 Team Driver Academy Atlassian Williams F1 Team is pleased to welcome reigning Italian F4 Champion Kean Nakamura-Berta to the Williams F1 Team Driver Academy. The Japanese-Slovak driver has already demonstrated consistency and speed throughout his early career, with multiple karting titles to his name. Kean made his karting debut at seven years old, quickly going on to compete in international karting and securing both the 2021 CIK-FIA OKJ World Championship and the 2022 CIK-FIA OK European Championship. Graduating to single seaters at the end of 2023 in the F4 South East Asia Championship, Kean had an impressive debut campaign securing two pole positions and a podium, further adding to this with two race wins and six further podiums in the 2024 Formula UAE Championship. 2025 was a breakout year for Kean as he secured the Italian F4 Championship with nine wins and multiple podiums across the season. The rising star will challenge for the Formula Regional Middle East and Formula Regional European championships in 2026. As part of the Academy, Kean will have the team's full support and guidance in nurturing his talent and developing his skills throughout his progression in the junior categories of motorsport.  The Academy supports drivers on every rung of the motorsport ladder, working with them on and off the track to develop the skills necessary to race at the top level. The Academy has a proud tradition of supporting young talent, which has most recently seen Academy alumnus Franco Colapinto graduate to an F1 race seat.  Kean Nakamura-Berta: “I'm very excited to be joining the Williams F1 Team Driver Academy this year. It's a team that has achieved so much and has a vast history, and I'm proud to be part of it. Racing in Formula Regional will be a new challenge but one that I'm especially looking forward to. Thank you to everyone at Williams for believing in me, and I can't wait to start this new chapter!” Sven Smeets, Sporting Director, Atlassian Williams F1 Team: “We're thrilled to have Kean join the Williams F1 Team Driver Academy at this key moment in his career. He has shown a lot of promise, proving that he is capable of learning, adapting and ultimately winning championships. We look forward to working with him this year and will watch keenly as he hits the track.”

Stage Seven of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered one of the longest and most demanding result days of the rally, where endurance, navigation, and discipline mattered more than outright speed.In this episode, we break down the Stage 7 results across motorcycles, cars, and the SSV category, highlighting how a long, attritional stage reshaped gaps and rewarded consistency.For the bike category, Stage 7 reinforced how tight Dakar 2026 has become. Fatigue and navigation accuracy played a major role late in the stage, with small mistakes carrying big consequences after nearly a full day on course.In the car category, the stage once again showed why leading out can be a double-edged sword. Clean tracks came with navigation pressure, while later starters benefited from references but still faced long hours and rising mechanical stress.The SSV class continued to deliver close racing, with Stage 7 emphasizing consistency over aggression as machines and crews were pushed deep into the endurance zone.This episode covers:Full Stage 7 bike, car, and SSV resultsHow endurance and fatigue shaped the dayWhy navigation errors late in the stage were costlyThe impact of Stage 7 on overall standingsWhat this stage tells us about Dakar 2026 moving forwardStage 7 may not have been the most dramatic on paper, but it quietly separated competitors who can manage long Dakar days from those who can't.

Stage Seven of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivers one of the longest and most demanding days of the rally, pushing competitors deep into the endurance phase as the race builds toward the Marathon Stage.In this episode, Victor Orellana breaks down Stage 7, a massive 877 km day featuring a challenging mix of terrain: 59% dirt track, 17% sand, and 15% stone track, with zero asphalt once the selective section begins. While the numbers suggest speed, the reality is far more complex.Navigation becomes increasingly difficult, especially through dune sections where line choice, visibility, and fatigue collide. Vigilance points highlight real safety concerns, with hidden hazards, changing terrain, and long hours on the bike placing heavy physical and mental demands on riders.This Stage 7 preview covers:Why this is one of the longest days of Dakar 2026Terrain composition and what it means for pace and fatigueThe growing importance of navigation, especially in the dunesTire management and endurance strategy as the rally progressesCurrent standings and how tight the competition remainsWhy Stage 7 sets the tone for the upcoming Marathon StageWith energy conservation, smart navigation, and discipline becoming more important than outright speed, Stage 7 is the kind of day where anything can happen — and often does.

On the Rest Day of the Dakar Rally 2026, Chasing Waypoints host Victor Orellana sits down with Scotty Bloom—founder of the Baja Rally and longtime rally journalist—to break down Dakar 2026 so far and explore where rally racing is headed next.This wide-ranging conversation covers the realities of modern rally racing: pressure on competitors, tire strategy issues, navigation challenges, and how even top riders can be caught out when the margins are razor thin. We discuss how Dakar continues to evolve—not just as a race, but as a media product—with improved global coverage and storytelling changing how fans experience the rally.Scotty also shares insight into the future of rally racing, highlighting the importance of youth development, mentorship, and emerging talent. Riders like Preston Campbell represent a new generation, while the legacy of Johnny Campbell continues to influence how American riders approach rally-raid competition.In this episode, we discuss:Dakar Rally 2026 insights through the Rest DayRally strategy, tire issues, and pressure on competitorsHow media coverage of Dakar has evolvedThe role of innovation, hot pits, and modern logisticsWhy youth involvement is critical for rally's futureThe rise of new talent in North American rally racingThis is a conversation about where rally racing has been, where it is now, and where it's going next.

Stage 5 of the Dakar Rally proved to be one of the most strategic days of the 2026 race, with tire performance, consistency, and penalty management playing a decisive role across Motorcycles, Cars, and SSV (UTV) classes.This episode breaks down how Stage 5 unfolded, why tire choice became the defining factor of the day, and how gaps opened up between the front-runners. With long distances, abrasive terrain, and mounting fatigue, racers were forced to balance outright speed with tire preservation—often at the cost of time or position.One of the standout discussions centers on Skyler Howes, whose tire strategy highlighted innovative thinking and long-term race management. Meanwhile, penalties once again reshaped the provisional standings, reminding competitors that Dakar is as much about discipline as it is raw pace.As we look ahead to Stage 6, the rally remains wide open. The rankings are still provisional, the gaps are manageable, and the upcoming terrain promises even greater challenges for riders and drivers alike.

Stage Six of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered a different kind of challenge than expected, proving once again that Dakar doesn't always punish with terrain — sometimes it punishes with penalties and precision.In this episode, we break down the Stage 6 results, focusing on motorcycle and vehicle performance, navigation challenges from the road book, and how speeding penalties played a major role in reshaping the standings.On the bike side, Ricky Brabec claimed the Stage 6 win with a strong, controlled performance. Meanwhile, Daniel Sanders suffered a significant penalty that impacted his overall lead, highlighting how quickly Dakar can turn even on a relatively manageable stage.This episode covers:Why Stage 6 wasn't the “monster” many expectedHow road book navigation and speed limits caught competitors outThe impact of speeding penalties on overall standingsWhy leading out can be a double-edged sword, especially for vehiclesNotable performances, including Doherty's return to the raceWhy fewer retirements point to improved durability across the fieldAs the rally heads into the rest day, the overall standings remain tight, and penalties continue to play an outsized role in shaping Dakar 2026. With harder stages still to come, Stage 6 serves as a reminder that discipline matters as much as outright speed.

Command Central on ChasingWaypoints.comhttps://www.chasingwaypoints.com/2026...Stage 6 of the Dakar Rally 2026 is a decisive sand stage, taking competitors from Ha'il to Riyadh on a day where the selective section is 100% sand.After an early start and a long liaison, the route drops into the Qassim region, where riders and drivers enter fast dune systems and sandy tracks that continue all the way to the ASS. The stage blends high-speed dunes, broken dune fields, and fast sandy trails between ergs, demanding rhythm, dune reading, and sustained focus.Stage 6 isn't just about speed — it's about managing risk late in the day. With limited visibility over crests, winding dune lines, and fatigue building deep into the stage, small mistakes can quickly turn costly. Recent rain adds another layer of complexity, with temporary camps, fences, and animals potentially near the course.This video breaks down:The full Stage 6 course layoutWhy this is a pure sand endurance testKey rhythm changes and danger zonesHow competitors must balance pace and disciplineWhy Stage 6 often catches riders out lateWith Riyadh ahead and a rest day looming, Stage 6 rewards smart decisions more than outright aggression.

To help us unpack the science behind these moments, Amy MacIver is joined by Dr Henning Gericke, a sports psychologist with years of experience working with high-performance athletes. Dr Gericke will help us understand the fine line between pure adrenaline, emotional meltdown, and self-directed anger, and why moments of failure can trigger such intense, almost ritualistic, responses among elite competitors. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stage Four of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered one of the tightest and most revealing days of the rally so far, as competitors tackled the opening leg of the Marathon Stage under intense pressure.In this episode, we break down the Stage 4 results across motorcycle and vehicle categories, highlighting standout performances, razor-thin time gaps, and the strategic implications of penalties and bonus time.On the bike side, Tosha Schareina claimed the Stage 4 victory with a time of 4:31:56, capping off a dominant performance on a day where the top four riders finished within just 16 seconds. Bonus time awarded to riders opening the stage once again played a key role in leveling the playing field and shaping the final results.This episode also takes a closer look at:How bonus time and penalties are influencing overall standingsWhy Rally 2 remains a critical category for emerging competitorsThe importance of team dynamics and coordination during marathon stagesThe extensive safety measures in place, including helicopters and ambulances positioned along the courseHow the Marathon Stage begins to expose weaknesses in both riders and machinesWith standings remaining tight and penalties capable of reshaping the leaderboard overnight, Stage 4 reinforces a core Dakar reality: consistency and discipline matter as much as speed.

Fire warnings issued as heatwave set to bring Black Summer–level conditions; Venezuela says death toll from U-S operation has risen to at least 56... and in motorsports, Australian Daniel Sanders retains overall lead in Dakar Rally motorcycle category.

Debate over hate speech reforms after the Bondi terror attack; inflation eases in Australia, but remains above the Reserve Bank's target; and Australian Daniel Sanders retains his lead in the Dakar Rally

Command Central on ChasingWaypoints.comhttps://www.chasingwaypoints.com/2026-dakar-rally.htmlMo's Dakar: https://amzn.to/49lvzgeStage One of the Dakar Rally 2026 is complete — and it's already clear that this year's rally is evolving into multiple races within the same event.In this episode of Chasing Waypoints, we break down the Stage 1 results across motorcycles, vehicles, and SSVs, highlight key performances and penalties, and explain why Dakar 2026 is shaping up differently than years past.One of the biggest early storylines comes from Ross Branch, whose penalty had a direct impact on his Stage One standing and immediately changed the competitive picture. These moments matter early — not because they decide the rally, but because they force strategy changes sooner than expected.We also look at the vehicle categories, where X-raid Mini set the early benchmark, and explain how vehicle dynamics, terrain interaction, and reliability are already influencing outcomes.In the SSV category, the margins are razor thin. Stage One showed just how competitive this class has become, with close times and very little room for mistakes — a trend that's likely to continue as the rally wears on.Looking ahead, Stage Two presents a long, demanding challenge where:Fuel management becomes criticalFatigue begins to accumulateStrategy matters more than outright speedWe also discuss how the interaction between bikes and vehicles adds complexity on course — affecting visibility, lines, and decision-making for everyone involved.This episode isn't about predictions — because it's still far too early for that. Dakar 2026 is just getting started, and the only certainty is that adaptability will matter more than ever.

Stage Two of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered exactly what Dakar does best: tight margins, strategic battles, and constant pressure across every category.In this episode, we break down the Stage 2 results across motorcycles, cars, stock class, and SSVs, highlighting just how close the competition has become early in the rally.On two wheels, Daniel Sanders emerged as the provisional stage winner with a time of 4:13:37, but the bigger story is the depth of the field — the top 10 riders separated by less than 10 minutes, where even small navigation mistakes carry heavy consequences.In the car category, Seth Quintero delivered a standout performance, backed by the navigation experience of Andrew Short, showing once again how critical teamwork and roadbook precision are at Dakar.The stock class continues to impress, with Sara Price securing a stage win and proving that production-based vehicles face a very different — and often more punishing — set of challenges compared to T1+ machinery.Meanwhile, the SSV category remains one of the most competitive fields in the rally, with tight time gaps and relentless pace that leave no room for error.Stage Two reinforces a core Dakar truth: this rally isn't won on outright speed alone — it's won through navigation, endurance, and strategy, and the margins are already razor thin.

Command Central on ChasingWaypoints.comhttps://www.chasingwaypoints.com/2026-dakar-rally.htmlStage Three of the Dakar Rally 2026 delivered the first true pressure test of the rally, as competitors faced the added complexity of a marathon stage—where riders and drivers must manage both performance and mechanical reliability without outside assistance.In this episode, we break down the Stage 3 results across motorcycles and vehicles, highlighting the riders who thrived under pressure and the teams beginning to feel the strain.On the bike side, Tosha Schareina claimed the Stage 3 win for Monster Energy Honda, reinforcing Honda's strength as a team. Ricky Brabec followed closely in second, delivering a strong performance despite the added challenges of marathon conditions.The overall standings remain incredibly tight, with the top three competitors separated by only minutes, setting up a critical battle between Honda and KTM as Dakar 2026 continues to unfold.In the vehicle categories, the marathon format introduces new strategic variables. With competitors responsible for their own repairs, even small issues—like a one-minute tire change—can quickly snowball into major time losses. The complexity of modern rally vehicles only amplifies the risk.This stage also highlights the growing impact of American teams, who continue to make a strong showing across categories as the rally progresses.⚠️ Results remain provisional and may change pending final confirmations.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!… HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MICHAEL SCHUMACHER…57 EVERYBODY GOING TO WANT TO KNOW WHAT MAX THINKS OF THE NEW CARS!…FOR SURE. LOGAN SARGENT BACK IN THE DRIVERS SEAT FOR THE 24 HOURS OF DAYTONA… FLAVIO BRIATORE EXPLAINS TO THE UNIVERSE WHY FERNANDO'S 2005 CHAMPIONSHIP WAS MORE THAN SPECIAL….HE BEAT SCHUMACHER TWO YEARS IN A ROW…IT WAS BIG!! THIS WEEK'S NASIR HAMEED CORNER…MORE VINTAGE BANTER BETWEEN THE HOST AND NASIR…THIS WEEK WE HAVE GIANCARLO FISICHELLA! BONUS INTERVIEW...MARIO ANDRETTI AT LAGUNA SECA. Flavio Briatore, the former boss of F1 legend Fernando Alonso, has explained the wider importance of the Spaniard's 2005 world championship win. Alonso is a two-time world champion, having claimed back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006 with the Renault team, beating seven-time champion Michael Schumacher in both of those years. He has since gone on to compete for another 20 years - barring two seasons off for 'retirement' - and has now raced in more grands prix than any other driver in F1 history. Alonso is still going strong at the age of 44, and is hoping to once more challenge for podiums and race wins in the near future with Aston Martin. But now, his former boss has taken us all back to 2005, when Alonso became the youngest champion in F1 history at a time after a seven-win season. "He replaced a world champion and many criticised him for being young and inexperienced, but I believed in him," Briatore said in a new DAZN documentary titled Bravissimo. "I was sure he was special. Over time you realise that he wasn't just special, he was something more than that. "In 2005 we not only won a world championship, we also introduced Formula 1 to Spain. It was the moment when everyone truly got to know Fernando Alonso. Not just because he won the world championship, but because of how he won it; we did it with authority." Can Alonso win another race? Now 44 years old, Alonso's hopes of claiming a third world championship title may be fading away, but he could still claim a 33rd career grand prix victory. Alonso has not won a race since the 2013 Spanish Grand Prix, but does have a contract that runs until the end of next season, and may even go on beyond that. The Spaniard has said that, if Aston Martin provide him with a car that's fighting for race wins in 2026, he'll be happy to retire, but if they're still struggling for top 10 finishes, he may well carry on beyond that. Alonso's driving ability is still there compared to his rivals, out-qualifiying his much younger team-mate Lance Stroll ahead of a grand prix on all 24 occasions in 2025. Sharp rocks cut deep into the convoy during frantic first stage of the 2026 Dakar Rally. The 2026 Dakar Rally began to stretch it's legs on Stage 1 with over 300km of racing over the rock fields surrounding Yanbu. Perilous terrain was waiting to take a big bite out of the convoy as they were plunged into the deep end at the world's toughest rally. Let's see who managed to keep their heads above water… It was Guillaume de Mévius and Mathieu Baumel who put the hammer down hardest on Stage 1 of the Ultimate class battle. The duo dodged all obstacles in their path, bringing their MINI JCW Rally 3.0i back to the Yanbu Start Camp Bivouac in first place overall. It's an incredible achievement considering their participation at this Dakar was thrown into serious doubt when Baumel was forced to have his right leg amputated last year. 'Winning a stage always feels good, but it wasn't really our strategy for the day. Tomorrow, Mathieu and I will be opening and I'm very happy about that. With Mathieu on my right, I'm not worried about opening a special.” – Guillaume de Mévius Nasser Al-Attiyah got his Dacia within 40 seconds of De Mévius's front-running vehicle. The Qatari gave us an insight into his tactics for tomorrow's 400-kilometre special stage that will bring the convoy to Al-Ula. “We were pushing, but then we saw Seb with two flat tyres so tried to take it easy. Then Guillaume passed us and we stayed behind him all the way. Tomorrow I will start three minutes behind Guillaume and we can push.” – Nasser Al-Attiyah Also finding themselves in a strong position to attack on the mountainous tracks that await tomorrow are the four Ford Raptor T1+ crews. Mattias Ekström, Carlos Sainz, Nani Roma and Mitch Guthrie Jr. all find themselves in the Top 10 and will be out to turn the screw on Stage 2. “There's 25 really fast drivers and 14 days of racing so you have to take care of your own business while keeping an eye on everybody else.” – Mattias Ekström Rally organisers placed a pitstop midway through the stage for four-wheel competitors due to the sheer amount of sharp rocks on the route. Top drivers including Sébastien Loeb, Toby Price, Cristina Gutiérrez, Laia Sanz, Henk Lategan and Seth Quintero all got their tyres sliced on Stage 1 as the Dakar showed its teeth during the first long stage of 2026. “It's like driving on razor blades out there!” – Seth Quintero Leading the charge for the debutant Defender team in the Stock class on Stage 1 was Rokas Baciuška. The Lithuanian set the Stock category's fastest time to create a piece of Dakar history. Baciuška is now the only World Rally-Raid Championship driver to win stages in Ultimate, Challenger, SSV and now Stock divisions. “There's a lot of dust out there because the Stock category starts each day at the back. I'm used to driving in the dust from my days driving SSV so that might help me out this year. Tomorrow will be another tough day so we'll see how we deal with it.” – Rokas Baciuška First to leave the Start Camp Bivouac this morning were the bikers with the leading contenders hitting the stage at 8am. Prologue victor Edgar Canet of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing maintained his impressive pace to make it back-to-back stage wins. 20-year-old Canet is making his debut in the Dakar's RallyGP category for elite bikers and it's so far, so good for the Catalan. “I did a good job with the navigation, I just got lost for a little bit. You need to take care in the rocks not to destroy yourself or destroy your bike.” – Edgar Canet Also taking a spot on the Stage 1 podium was Canet's KTM team-mate Daniel Sanders. The 2025 Dakar champion kept his head despite being attacked by sandstorms while racing for over three hours. “It was really windy and my helmet was catching a lot of wind so it was hard to focus.” – Daniel Sanders Harith Noah and Mohammed Balooshi both endured tough days on the bike. Indian rider Noah was airlifted to hospital in Riyadh due to back injuries following a crash. We wish Harith a speedy recovery from his injuries. Meanwhile, Balooshi also suffered an accident during the stage, although he was able to bring his Honda CRF 450 to the finish line. “At the refuelling a doctor tried to fix my finger and knuckle. I rode this 300km stage unable to grip since kilometre 20. I just tried to survive. This is Dakar!” – Mohammed Balooshi There was plenty of rock and rolling in the Challenger class with Dania Akeel arriving to the finish of Stage 1 with the driver's side door ripped off her Taurus T3 Max. Despite some superficial damage to the machine, both Akeel and her BBR team-mate Kevin Benavides stayed within 10 minutes of early category leader David Zille. “I'm not sure what happened with the door because we didn't hit anything. Maybe there was something loose. We had one puncture so we lost some time changing the tyre. It was also very dusty with so many Ultimate cars around us. But that's part of the game. Thanks to my co-driver Sébastien for a great stage.” – Dania Akeel After today's 305-kilometre loop around Yanbu it's still very tight at the top of the SSV class. Francisco ‘Chaleco' López won the SSV race at the Dakar in both 2019 and 2021. After Stage 1 in 2026 the Chilean is just four minutes off leader Xavier De Soultrait, with Gonçalo Guerreiro a further 30 seconds behind. “We need to keep working hard to reach the finish of this rally. It was very tough on the rocks today so I'm happy with the time we posted.” – Francisco ‘Chaleco' López Showing grit and determination worthy of the Dakar was eight-time World Rallycross champion Johan Kristoffersson. The Swede did not get his Dakar debut started as he wanted when his Polaris RZR Pro R ended up on its roof during the Prologue. However, Kristoffersson dusted himself down and took his place on the start line of Stage 1. Despite eating a lot of dust, the rookie recorded the day's 13th best time in the SSV class. For tomorrow's Stage 2 the convoy depart Yanbu and the shores of the Red Sea, heading inland towards the treasures of Al-Ula. Competitors hoping to establish an early race rhythm will be frustrated by the constantly evolving terrain under their wheels. Every brief section of flat out speed is quickly followed by a technical section over the rocks. As with Stage 1, a midway pitstop has been added for four-wheel competitors to attend to any punctures suffered on the rocks. ULTIMATE – Top 3 plus selected 1. G. De Mévius (BEL) / M. Baumel (FRA) – MINI 03:07:49
 2. N. Al-Attiyah (QAT) / F. Lurquin (BEL) – Dacia +00:40
 3. M. Prokop (CZE) / V. Chytka (CZE) – Ford +01:27 
4. M. Ekström (SWE) / E. Bergvist (SWE) – Ford +01:38
 6. C. Sainz (ESP) / L. Cruz (ESP) – Ford +01:54
 8. N. Roma (ESP) / A. Haro (ESP) – Ford +02:37
 9. M. Guthrie Jr. (USA) / K. Walch (USA) – Ford +02:50 
10. S. Loeb (FRA) / É. Boulanger (FRA) – Dacia +03:01
 11. L. Moraes (BRA) / D. Zenz (GER) – Dacia +03:34
 15. C. Gutiérrez (ESP) / P. Moreno (ESP) – Dacia +05:00
 16. T. Price (AUS) / A. Monleón (ESP) – Toyota +05:17
 17. H. Lategan (ZAF) / B. Cummings (ZAF) – Toyota +06:57
 18. S. Quintero (USA) / A. Short (USA) – Toyota +07:18 
26. L. Sanz (ESP) / M. Gerini (ITA) – Ebro +16:26 STOCK – Top 3 plus selected 1. R. Baciuška (LTU) / O. Vidal (ESP) – Defender 4:04:59 2. R. Basso (FRA) / J. Menard (FRA) – Toyota +06:49 
3. A. Miura (JPN) / J. Polato (FRA) – Toyota +08:18 4. S. Peterhansel (FRA) / M. Metge (FRA) – Defender +48:49 BIKE RallyGP – Top 3 plus selected 1. E. Canet (ESP) – KTM 03:27:42 2. D. Sanders (AUS) – KTM +01:05 3. R. Brabec (USA) – Honda +01:37 5. L. Benavides (ARG) – KTM +05:08 44. M. Balooshi (UAE) – Honda +58:48 102. H. Noah (IND) – Sherco +24:45:40 CHALLENGER – Top 3 plus selected 1. D. Zille (ARG) / S. Cesana (ARG) – Taurus 03:32:50
 2. P. Spierings (NED) / J. Van Der Stelt (NED) – Taurus +00:42 3. N. Cavigliasso (ARG) / V. Pertegarini (ARG) – Taurus +02:03
 7. K. Benavides (ARG) / L. Sisterna (ARG) – Taurus +09:08
 9. D. Akeel (KSA) / S. Delaunay (FRA) – Taurus +09:56 SSV – Top 3 plus selected 1. X. De Soultrait (FRA) / M. Bonnet (FRA) – Polaris 03:38:45
 2. A. Pinto (POR) / B. Oliveira (POR) – Polaris +03:34 3. B. Heger (USA) / M.Eddy (USA) – Polaris +03:48 4. F. López (CHI) / A. León (CHI) – Can-Am +04:02 5. G. Guerreiro (POR) / M. Justo (BRA) – Polaris +04:33 13. J. Krisstoffersson (SWE) / O. Floene (NOR) – Polaris +19:16

After a restful holiday break, the guys are back for Season 7 of the GSP! Phil and Josh welcome back a good friend of the show, NASCAR fan and content creator Joe Passero to talk about the loss of Greg Biffle, family and friends in a private plane crash. The guys go over the contributions Biffle made not only as a driver but as a humanitarian during Hurricane Helene and other storms in recent years. The crew reviews highlights of Biffle's career in NASCAR's top three series along with his connection to Cleetus McFarland, which brought a whole new audience to find out about The Biff. The trio also mentioned the untimely loss of Dennis Hamlin in a house fire along with his wife being in recovery, adding to what was a challenging year for Denny Hamlin. Phil, Josh and Joe review the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Season and provide their Good/Bad/Ugly from the season along with some drivers that did better than expected versus some who did not. Phil and Josh went over everything that went on in Week 17 of the NFL and machinations for both the 49ers and Jaguars for their playoff seeding heading into Week 18. Phil's first GSP Roundup previewed the Dakar Rally and updated some news items across the world of motorsports before Josh's Sim Segment and Show Close. 

The 2026 Dakar Rally preview show covers the upcoming rally's logistics, stages, and competitors. The rally features a 14-day, 8,000 km event with new marathon stages and a 900 km mega stage. Key competitors include Ricky Brabeck, Skyler Howes, and Daniel Sanders. The show discusses the challenges of the Saudi Arabian terrain and the rally's evolving rules, such as digital road books and mandatory airbags.