The Dakar 2027 will not take place in Saudi Arabia due to the geopolitical context

The Dakar Rally 2027 will not take place in Saudi Arabia due to escalating geopolitical tensions and attacks from Houthi fighters. Organizers Amaury Sport Organisation and Saudi Motorsport Company announced the cancellation, citing safety concerns. The event, originally scheduled for January 2027, will be relocated, with a new venue to be announced soon. Saudi Arabia is expected to host the rally again in 2028 for its 50th edition. The cancellation follows a series of other sporting events in the region being affected by the ongoing conflict, including Formula 1 races and a WRC rally. Recent attacks have intensified fears for safety in the kingdom, leading to this decision.