The Shifting Sands of Dakar: Iveco’s Reign and the Battle for Truck Supremacy
For over two decades, Kamaz dominated the Dakar Rally’s truck category. However, the geopolitical landscape has reshaped the competition. Since 2023, the Russian manufacturer’s absence has opened the door for Iveco to take center stage. The Italian marque has already secured the last three victories, with Janus van Kasteren’s 2023 win followed by two consecutive triumphs for Martin Macik. This marks a significant power shift in the world of rally-raid trucking.
Van Kasteren’s Switch and Macik’s Pursuit of History
Interestingly, Janus van Kasteren, the 2023 champion, is making a surprising move to the car category in the 2026 Dakar. This leaves Martin Macik as the primary defender of Iveco’s crown. Macik will once again pilot the MM Technology-developed Iveco Powerstar, alongside teammates Frantisek Tomasek and David Svanda. Their goal? A third consecutive Dakar victory. Achieving this would put Macik in elite company, equaling the feat of Eduard Nikolaev, who won three consecutive truck titles between 2017 and 2019.
The Rising Star: Mitchel van den Brink’s Challenge
The biggest threat to Macik’s ambitions appears to be Mitchel van den Brink of Eurol Rallysport. Van den Brink will be driving the exact same Iveco Powerstar as the defending champions, and his recent performance suggests he’s ready to contend for the win. He’s consistently improved his results, finishing fourth, third, and second in the last three Dakars. Supported by navigator Bart van Heun and mechanic Jarno van de Pol, and with the backing of his father, Martin van den Brink (also competing with Eurol Rallysport), the 23-year-old is a force to be reckoned with.
Team De Rooy’s Resurgence and the Competitive Landscape
Don’t count out Team De Rooy, the team that celebrated Van Kasteren’s 2023 victory. They are fielding two trucks in 2026, including one for Ales Loprais, who finished third overall last year, consistently challenging Macik. Loprais, the nephew of six-time winner Karel Loprais, is determined to go one better this time around. Vaidotas Zala, who finished fifth in 2025, will also be driving an Iveco Powerstar for the Dutch team. The concentration of Iveco Powerstars at the front of the field highlights the truck’s current dominance.
The Future of Dakar Trucking: Technology and Competition
The increasing competitiveness of the truck category is driving innovation. MM Technology’s ongoing development of the Iveco Powerstar is a prime example. Teams are investing heavily in optimizing engine performance, suspension systems, and tire technology to gain an edge. The Dakar’s challenging terrain demands robust and reliable vehicles, and manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Expect to see further advancements in areas like hybrid powertrains and lightweight materials in the coming years, although current regulations primarily favor traditional diesel engines.
The 2026 Dakar Rally begins on Saturday, January 3rd, with a prologue around Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, and concludes two weeks later in the same city. The stage is set for a thrilling battle between established champions and rising stars, all vying for glory in the world’s most demanding rally-raid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the favorite to win the 2026 Dakar Rally truck category?
Martin Macik is currently considered the favorite, having won the last two editions. However, Mitchel van den Brink is a strong contender and is expected to challenge for the title.
What is the role of MM Technology in the Dakar Rally?
MM Technology is a specialized engineering firm that develops and optimizes the Iveco Powerstar trucks used by Martin Macik and other teams. They focus on improving performance, reliability, and durability.
Why did Kamaz withdraw from the Dakar Rally?
Kamaz’s withdrawal is directly linked to the ongoing geopolitical situation and sanctions imposed following the war in Ukraine.
Want to learn more about the Dakar Rally? Explore our Dakar section for the latest news, results, and analysis.
