World · World News Bureau
Dakar Rally 2027 relocates to Portugal and Morocco from Saudi Arabia
Organizers confirmed the prestigious off-road racing event will move to the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa for 2027, marking an exceptional shift in the rally's hosting arrangements. The competition is expected to run from January 9-23.
LSN World News ·
The Dakar Rally will depart Saudi Arabia after more than a decade of hosting, with organizers announcing Portugal and Morocco as the joint venues for the 2027 edition of the grueling cross-country motorsport competition.
Rally organizers characterized the relocation as an unusual step, emphasizing that the arrangement represents a one-time exceptional decision rather than signaling a permanent change in the event's future direction. The decision to revoke Saudi Arabia's hosting rights marks a significant departure for the rally, which has been held in the Kingdom since 2020.
The two-week event, provisionally scheduled for January 9-23, 2027, will utilize the diverse terrain and established racing infrastructure across both Portugal and Morocco. The pairing of the two countries presents organizers with opportunities to showcase distinct geographical landscapes while maintaining the rally's demanding standards.
Details regarding specific route planning, stage locations, and logistical arrangements across the two nations are expected to be announced in coming months as preparations advance toward the event.