Before flying to Saudi Arabia for the Dakar (scheduled from January 3 to 17, 2026), Sébastien Loeb made a stop in Paris to discuss with Motorsport.com. The French driver, who intends to make a mark in this new edition, shared his impressions on the Dacia and the importance of a bit of luck in this mythical race.
The Challenge of Preparation
Last year, Loeb admitted to arriving at the Dakar not fully prepared. A bit like a chef going to the market without a list, he was aware that some ingredients were missing from his final dish. This time, he approaches Dakar 2026 with a completely different mindset. “Overall, the car is performing well, so that’s a good thing,” he emphasizes with barely concealed confidence.
The Dacia, which competes against the giants of rally-raid, has benefited from increased development. Loeb feels confident in his vehicle’s capabilities, which should allow him to tackle the dunes with the agility of a hunting feline. But the driver also knows that in motorsport, performance is not always enough. Sometimes, a pinch of luck is needed to make the difference.
The Ingredients of Success
Sébastien Loeb is a bit like the James Bond of rallying: an impressive track record and the ability to get out of the worst situations. However, he never forgets that even Agent 007 sometimes has to rely on his HQ to get the right gadget at the right time. “You also need some luck to win,” he reminds. In this context, he mentions the unforeseen events that will punctuate the race, from mechanical issues to impromptu sandstorms, elements that can turn a promising rally into a real headache.
Rivals to Watch
With rivals like Nasser Al-Attiyah and other prestigious names in rally-raid, the competition promises to be tougher than ever. For Loeb, every driver is a formidable opponent, and one should never underestimate their competitors. Speaking of the competition, he explains that each year, the level rises a notch, like a roller coaster that takes you higher before letting you plunge into the void.
He knows that to triumph on this chaotic track, he must not only dominate technically but also psychologically. “The battle is not only fought on the road,” he confides, highlighting the importance of strategy and concentration.
The Support of the Team
In the world of rallying, the team is often the secret weapon of the drivers. On this subject, Loeb mentions the importance of close collaboration with his technical team. A bit like a band of musicians that must be in perfect harmony to produce a masterpiece. Each member has a crucial role to play in optimizing the performance of the Dacia. Preparing the car is a team effort where every detail counts.
“We do a lot of testing, a lot of trials to fine-tune the settings,” he explains. The goal is clear: to enter the race with a vehicle tuned like a Swiss watch.
A Human Adventure Above All
Beyond the competition and technical performances, Sébastien Loeb also talks about the human aspect of the Dakar. For him, this adventure is a gathering of enthusiasts who come together around a common quest: to push their limits. It’s an adventure that resembles a grand festival where each participant plays their own part while playing together in an automotive symphony.
The bonds forged between drivers and teams are unbreakable, and each stage of the rally is an opportunity to share unforgettable moments, both on and off the track. It’s this unique blend of emotions and adrenaline that makes this competition so special.
Towards New Horizons
With just a few days until the start, excitement is building for Sébastien Loeb and his team. Preparation is almost complete, and the driver is ready to write a new chapter in his career. For him, Dakar 2026 is not just a competition; it’s a personal challenge, a quest to prove once again that he is one of the best in this field.
With a Dacia ready to conquer the desert and a mindset sharpened by years of experience, Loeb seems determined to achieve a memorable feat. As he puts it: “The road will be long and fraught with obstacles, but nothing compares to the thrill of victory at the Dakar.” Fans can expect an edition rich in emotions and twists.
