The Monster Energy Honda HRC team has spent the past weeks preparing for one of the toughest motorsport challenges in the world: the 2025 Dakar Rally. Since Christmas, the team has been based in Saudi Arabia, acclimating to the conditions along the shores of the Red Sea in Jeddah.
With an international roster of top riders – Americans Ricky Brabec and Skyler Howes, Chilean Pablo Quintanilla, and Europeans Tosha Schareina and Adrien Van Beveren – they kicked off the new year with an extensive shakedown test near the first bivouac in Bisha.
Final Preparations in Bisha
In Bisha, located in the southwestern province of ‘Asir, the team not only completed their shakedown but also participated in the official press conference. Ricky Brabec, the 2024 Dakar winner, and Adrien Van Beveren, last year’s third-place finisher, spoke to the media about their ambitions and expectations. Meanwhile, the Honda CRF450 RALLY bikes and riders’ equipment underwent administrative checks and technical inspections. With these final formalities complete, the team is now ready for the start of the new season in the World Rally-Raid Championship.
A Critical Start in the Prologue
This year’s Dakar Rally features 136 competitors, 21 of whom are in the prestigious RallyGP category, including all the factory Honda riders. The rally begins with the Prologue: a short but crucial stage spanning 79 kilometers from Bisha. Within this distance, riders will tackle a timed special of 29 kilometers over hard terrain and gravel tracks. Although the Prologue is relatively short, a clean and error-free run is vital, as the top ten finishers will have the strategic advantage of choosing their starting positions for the first full stage on Saturday.
Two Grueling Weeks of Racing
The next two weeks will be a true test of endurance for both riders and machines. The 47th edition of the Dakar Rally will take participants through Saudi Arabia’s most challenging landscapes, featuring the 48 Hour Chrono and a demanding marathon stage during the first week. For Monster Energy Honda HRC riders, the battle begins from the very first meters, where perseverance, focus, and a bit of luck will determine their success.
The finish line in Shubaytah on January 17 will mark the end of a heroic journey through the unforgiving desert. Monster Energy Honda HRC is ready to take on the challenge and make history in the world’s most iconic rally.