A major shock has hit the cross-country rallying world as the Amaury Sport Organisation and Saudi Motorsport Company jointly released a statement confirming that the famous Dakar Rally will not take place in Saudi Arabia as originally planned for 2027. This monumental decision officially breaks a seven-year streak of the region hosting the world's most demanding endurance racing event, catching many teams and fans completely off guard.
Citing developments in the region, the official statement did not immediately confirm the new territory that will step in to replace Saudi Arabia. This leaves numerous unanswered questions given the remarkably short timeframe before the event is scheduled to get underway from January 1 to January 15, 2027, prompting frantic logistical adjustments across the paddock.
Despite the sudden relocation for 2027, organizers confirmed that the event will still go ahead in a different territory under the management of the Amaury Sport Organisation. The new host location is set to be announced separately in the coming days, with organizers in direct contact with competitors, teams, and commercial partners to navigate this unexpected transition smoothly.

Looking further ahead, Saudi Arabia will officially return to host the 2028 edition, which stands as a landmark milestone celebrating the 50th running of the legendary rally. Both organizations are already collaborating closely to ensure this golden jubilee becomes an exceptional moment for the sport and the Kingdom, maintaining their long-term strategic partnership.
Since 2020, Saudi Arabia has hosted seven consecutive editions, offering breathtaking geographical diversity that firmly integrated the country into the core community of the rally. All involved federations and promotional bodies have reaffirmed their shared commitment to continuing cooperation, developing regional motorsport, and delivering world-class standards for future editions.



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