With a festive team presentation in Otterlo, Eurol Rally Sport has officially kicked off its campaign toward the 2026 Dakar Rally. In front of two hundred guests, the full team was introduced on Friday evening. Led by Mitchel van den Brink, the Harskamp-based squad is looking ahead to the world’s toughest rally with full confidence.
A Presentation with a Personal Touch
In a relaxed atmosphere, the audience got an in-depth look at the people behind the team. Not only were Mitchel and his father, Martin van den Brink in the spotlight, but every team member, from technicians to service staff, was individually welcomed on stage. The evening was hosted by Allard Kalff, who brought his signature energy to the presentation. Mitchel emphasized the importance of the gathering: “We’re heading to Saudi Arabia with a team of 23. Every one of them is an essential link. It’s great that our partners, sponsors, and families get to see who is actually involved. This is a team effort in every sense.”
Young Team on the Attack
For Dakar 2026, Mitchel will compete alongside navigator Bart van Heun and mechanic Jarno van de Pol. At just 23 and 26 years old respectively, the trio forms a remarkably young crew. However, their ambitions are anything but modest. Earlier this season, Mitchel and Bart secured the overall win in the FIA World Baja Cup and will soon collect the official title at the FIA’s international awards gala in Azerbaijan. That winning momentum brings confidence. “We’ve built up a lot of rhythm this year, which makes a huge difference. We may be a young team, but we’re well-synced. We know what we’re capable of and what it takes,” said Mitchel.
Experience as a Foundation
Alongside the youthful trio, a highly experienced crew will also be at the start. Martin van den Brink is entering his 18th consecutive Dakar, joined by navigator Peter Willemsen and mechanic Richard Mouw. Together, they account for dozens of Dakar entries. “Experience is crucial in a rally like Dakar,” says Martin. “That’s why we deliberately chose this lineup. It’s great that we, as the experienced crew, can line up alongside the younger guys. It creates balance.”
The trucks being used are identical to those of Dakar winner Martin Macik. Eurol Rally Sport operates two Iveco trucks from the MM Technology stable, both built in the Evo 4 concept. “Both vehicles have either been built from the ground up or significantly updated,” Mitchel explains. “With this equipment and this team, we are right to aim for the top.”
Past Results as a Guide
January will mark Mitchel’s sixth Dakar Rally as a driver. He made his debut in 2019 as the youngest ever participant, serving as his father’s navigator. In 2021, he took the wheel himself for the first time. Since then, his results have been on a steady rise: 19th, 10th, 4th, 3rd, and most recently 2nd. That progression speaks volumes. “There’s really only one step left,” Mitchel smiles. “Of course we want to win, but I also want to stay realistic. You need a top team, solid vehicles, and a bit of luck. A broken differential can be the difference between victory and disappointment. We saw that last year.”
Ready for the Start
The 2026 Dakar Rally kicks off on Saturday, January 3, and runs through January 17. That’s when the Harskamp team will find out if it can once again challenge for a podium spot. Mitchel is ready. “Everything is in place. The people, the equipment, the preparation. Now it’s about staying focused, taking it day by day, and striking at the right moment. On January 17, we’ll know exactly where we stand.”
