Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) is ready to tackle the world’s toughest motorsport challenge as the Dakar Rally returns to Saudi Arabia from 3–17 January 2026. With four highly skilled crews and the latest evolution of the GR Hilux IMT Evo, the team is aiming to make a powerful statement in an event renowned for its unforgiving terrain and relentless demands.
A Quartet of Talent
The 2026 campaign will see TGRSA field four formidable pairings:
#211 – Juan Cruz Yacopini (Argentina) / Daniel Oliveras (Spain)
#213 – Saood Variawa (South Africa) / Francois Cazalet (France)
#218 – Guy Botterill (South Africa) / Oriol Mena (Spain)
#240 – João Ferreira (Portugal) / Filipe Palmeiro (Portugal)
Each crew brings a unique blend of experience and skill. Yacopini and Oliveras arrive as FIA World Baja Cup champions, while Variawa and Cazalet carry the momentum of their South African Rally-Raid Championship victory. Botterill and Mena add consistency and Dakar know-how, and Ferreira with Palmeiro inject European rally-raid pedigree into the mix.
The Machine
The latest GR Hilux IMT Evo has undergone a rigorous development cycle throughout 2025, focusing on durability, handling, and performance. Enhancements include improved cockpit comfort and optimised capability for varied sand conditions—critical for a route designed to test every facet of endurance racing.
Voices from the Team
Team Principal Shameer Variawa expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness:
“We’ve worked tirelessly to ensure our package is competitive from the very first kilometre. Dakar is unique, but we believe this year’s team and car are stronger than ever.”
Toyota South Africa Motors Vice-President of Marketing, Glenn Crompton, emphasised the broader significance:
“Dakar is the ultimate proving ground for Hilux. It showcases our commitment to Quality, Durability, and Reliability while inspiring fans worldwide with a spirit of adventure.”
A Saudi Arabian Odyssey
The rally begins in Yanbu, on the Red Sea coast, before sweeping north, east, and south in a vast clockwise loop, ultimately returning to Yanbu for the finish. Across 13 stages, competitors will face fast gravel tracks, towering dunes, rocky sections, and complex navigation challenges. Key features include:
Two marathon stages—a first for the Saudi-based Dakar—demanding mechanical sympathy and strategic thinking.
Fewer bivouacs, allowing support teams to remain fresher for daily servicing.
A rest day in Riyadh on 10 January, offering a brief respite amid the chaos.
Though the notorious Empty Quarter is absent this year, the route compensates with near-record competitive kilometres and a dynamic mix of terrain.
Prepared for the Ultimate Test
With a united team, a refined machine, and a route designed to push competitors to their limits, TGRSA enters Dakar 2026 with confidence and ambition. Every kilometre will demand speed, precision, and resilience—but if preparation counts for anything, Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa is ready to deliver.
