Overview
- The FIA, reporting a joint A.S.O. and SMC statement, confirmed on Sunday that Dakar 2027 (1–15 January) will not be held in Saudi Arabia and will be staged in a different territory.
- Organisers described the move as an "exceptional and one‑off" decision taken in close coordination with the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and supported by the FIA and the FIM.
- A.S.O. says it is contacting competitors, teams and partners to manage the rapid logistical changes that moving the route will require, including permits, transport and accommodation.
- Media outlets report that Morocco and other African routes are being lined up as likely options but organisers say the new host will be announced officially in the coming days.
- Saudi Arabia will host the Dakar Rally's 50th running in 2028, preserving the long-term partnership that began when the event moved to the Kingdom in 2020 and highlighting complex safety and planning pressures on large motorsport events.