The Dakar Rally, known as the pinnacle of endurance and innovation in motorsport, continues to challenge riders and machines alike. In the 2025 edition, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) once again reaffirms its status as a leader in off-road racing, with a legacy built on resilience, ingenuity, and an unwavering spirit of adventure.
A Legacy Built on Triumphs
Honda's Dakar journey began in the early 1980s, with the iconic NXR750 securing four consecutive wins from 1986 to 1989. This unparalleled success laid the foundation for Honda's commitment to rally excellence. In 2020, Honda broke KTM's 18-year dominance with a stunning victory, heralding a new era of achievement.
The Honda CRF450 Rally remains a key player, combining state-of-the-art engineering with unrivalled performance. Riders like Tosha Schareina, Adrien Van Beveren, and Pablo Quintanilla have continued Honda's tradition of pushing limits, delivering memorable performances that inspire rally enthusiasts worldwide.
2025 Dakar Rally Weekly Recap
As the 2025 Dakar Rally progresses, Honda’s riders have already achieved standout moments across the gruelling stages. Here's a look at some highlights from the first week:
- Stage 4 Victory: Tosha Schareina delivered a stellar performance, securing a stage win and moving up to second place overall. This achievement underscores Honda's strength and strategy in the world's toughest rally.
- Consistent Performances: Adrien Van Beveren and Pablo Quintanilla have showcased exceptional consistency and maintained competitive positions while navigating challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions.
- Team Spirit and Innovation: Honda’s riders continue to demonstrate remarkable teamwork, supported by the cutting-edge engineering of the CRF450 Rally. This synergy is key to their success in tackling the demanding Saudi Arabian landscapes.
Celebrating Riders and Their Rest Days
This year’s Dakar Rally spans over 7,700 kilometres of gruelling terrain, testing the endurance and skill of every competitor. Friday marks the riders’ rest day—a brief respite from the relentless pace of the rally. To honour this rhythm, Honda South Africa will be updating fans with weekly recaps every Friday, ensuring our updates coincide with this reflective pause in the rally. These recaps will highlight standout moments, achievements, and the relentless spirit of Honda’s team.
Looking Ahead
Honda's commitment to rallying isn’t just about the machines but also the people who embody the brand's vision. Riders like Joan Barreda and others have left indelible marks on Dakar history, inspiring both fans and aspiring racers.
As the rally unfolds, follow Honda South Africa and HRC’s official Dakar Rally page for real-time updates, insights, and exclusive content. Together, let’s celebrate Honda’s enduring legacy and the thrilling journey of the Dakar Rally.
Join Us Every Friday
Stay connected and relive the week’s action with Honda South Africa’s comprehensive Friday updates. Together, let’s rally behind Honda’s team as they continue to set benchmarks in one of the most challenging motorsport events on Earth.
For more stories, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments, head to HRC Dakar Rally.