Harith Noah Gears Up for His 7th Dakar Rally Adventure

Harith Noah, India's top rally-raid rider, is set to compete in his seventh Dakar Rally from January 3 to 17, 2026. This event is not just a race for him; it symbolizes a test of faith and resilience. With a challenging route of nearly 8,000 kilometers, Noah aims to showcase his skills and determination after overcoming past setbacks. His journey from Indian motocross to the global stage highlights his commitment to inspiring others in motorsport. Discover more about his preparations and aspirations as he represents India in this prestigious event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 3, 2026, 10:17 IST

Harith Noah's Dakar Rally Journey

Yanbu [Saudi Arabia], January 3: Harith Noah, India's prominent rally-raid competitor, is preparing for his seventh participation in the Dakar Rally, which is recognized as one of the most challenging motorsport events globally. The 48th edition of the Dakar Rally will take place from January 3 to 17, 2026.

For the 32-year-old rider hailing from Kerala, the Dakar Rally represents more than just a race; it embodies a test of determination, patience, and resilience. His journey reflects a steadfast belief that an Indian rider can not only compete but also thrive and motivate others on an international platform. Transitioning from Indian motocross tracks to the expansive Arabian desert, Noah has established himself among the sport's elite.

The rally will kick off with a brief prologue in Yanbu on January 3, which will determine the starting order for the main event. Following this, participants will face two intense weeks of competition, culminating in a return to the Red Sea on January 17. The total distance covered will be nearly 8,000 kilometers, featuring around 4,800 kilometers of high-speed timed Selective Sections (SS) that traverse dunes, rocky landscapes, and harsh plateaus. A single rest day is scheduled for January 10 in Riyadh, allowing competitors to recuperate before the final stretch.

Noah, a five-time Indian National Supercross Champion, last secured a national title in 2018 before dedicating himself to rally-raid training in 2019. He made his Dakar debut in 2020, coinciding with the rally's relocation to Saudi Arabia. Riding the TVS Sherco RTR 450, he is set to proudly represent India once again. Over the past year, he has honed his racing skills through participation in three world rally-raid championship events, enhancing his fitness, navigation skills, and overall race strategy. His historic victory in the Rally 2 class marked the first win for an Indian rider at Dakar, a significant achievement for both him and Indian motorsport.

Despite the challenges, the Dakar Rally is notorious for its brutal nature. In 2025, Noah faced a setback when a crash during the prologue forced him to withdraw before the race even began. Reflecting on this experience, he emphasizes the importance of resilience: “Mistakes are part of the journey. It’s crucial to focus on how you respond to them. It’s mentally tough to arrive at Dakar only to have it end prematurely due to injury. However, I cannot alter the past. My priority is to give my best effort rather than obsess over results. Learning from my experiences and committing fully is what truly counts,” shared the Sports Science graduate from Manchester Metropolitan University.