Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Sets Sights on Dakar 2025

The countdown to the 47th edition of the Dakar Rally is on, and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing is ready to hit the ground running. With Kevin Benavides, Luciano Benavides, and Daniel Sanders in the RallyGP class, the team is gearing up for the most challenging race of the year. Starting January 3 in Bisha, Saudi Arabia, competitors will embark on a grueling 12-stage journey covering nearly 5000 miles (8,000 kilometers) across some of the harshest landscapes on the planet.

A Trio of Determined Riders

• Kevin Benavides enters the 2025 Dakar Rally as a two-time champion. Riding the number 47 bike in the 47th edition of the race, Kevin has his sights set on making this year truly his own. After a challenging 2024 season marked by injury, he has dedicated himself to recovery and preparation. Could this be the year Kevin turns his dream of a third Dakar victory into reality? “The fight to win is now greater than ever,” Kevin said, emphasizing the importance of smart riding and peak fitness.
  Having had the chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Salta, Kevin’s home province, following old Dakar routes with him as our guide, I can attest to his deep connection with both the race and his roots. It’s this blend of passion and skill that makes him a true champion on and off the bike.
• Luciano Benavides is coming off a strong performance at the Rallye du Maroc. The 2023 FIM Rally-Raid World Champion has been putting in the work both mentally and physically to arrive at Dakar ready for success. “It’s a long race, so we have to take it day by day, but I want to be competitive throughout,” Luciano explained.
• Daniel Sanders is fired up from his recent victory in Morocco and is eager to continue his winning streak. With focused training and a perfectly tuned KTM 450 RALLY, Sanders is confident in his ability to deliver a top-tier performance. “The first week looks tough, but I’m ready to push hard and aim for the podium,” he shared.

An Unforgiving Route

The 2025 Dakar promises to be one of the toughest yet, with 3,100 miles (5,000 kilometers) of timed special stages across Saudi Arabia. A particularly brutal stretch includes a 48-hour chrono stage followed by the marathon stage, demanding endurance, strategy, and resilience. Riders will welcome the rest day in Ha’il on January 10 before tackling the Empty Quarter en route to the finish line in Shubaytah on January 17.

Team Momentum

According to Andreas Hölzl, Rally Team Manager, the team’s preparation has been extensive. “We have a really strong team, especially after Daniel’s win in Morocco, which proved that we have what it takes to be back on the podium,” Hölzl stated. With confidence in the team’s readiness, KTM is focused on reclaiming the top step in 2025.

Get a Closer Look

Watch the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team preview for Dakar 2025 and see their determination in action.

The stage is set, the riders are prepared, and the countdown has begun. Stay tuned for more updates as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing takes on the Dakar Rally.