New Delhi, Dec 29 (NationPress) Esteemed rally driver Sanjay Takale, the sole Indian competitor in the four-wheeled category at the globe's most challenging rally raid, the Dakar, is gearing up for his second consecutive stint as he prepares to travel from Delhi to Saudi Arabia this Tuesday.

Making his debut at the Dakar in 2025, Takale etched his name in history by being the first Indian to compete and successfully finish in the Car category. He secured an impressive 18th position overall and 10th in his class during the Dakar Classic, a regularity event designed for vintage vehicles.

At the age of 57, Takale will once again race for Team Aerpace Racers, teamed up with French navigator Maxime Raud. He will continue to receive technical and logistical assistance from Compagnie Saharienne in France, which also supported him in his 2025 campaign.

With an impressive career spanning over three decades in motorsport, Takale has roots in motocross from the 1980s and has a rich history in car rallying. His accolades include a championship in the Asia-Pacific Production Cup and participation in various World Rally Championship events. Hailing from Manjari village near Pune, he is recognized as a trailblazer among Indian privateers who have sustained a long presence in international rallying.

Reflecting on his debut, Takale considers finishing the 2025 Dakar Classic as a significant milestone in his career. As he prepares for the 2026 edition in Saudi Arabia, he states: “My objective is to complete the event once more and enhance last year's results through a consistent and disciplined approach.”

“The Dakar has always intrigued me. It is the largest, longest, and most challenging rally globally. Competing here has been a lifelong aspiration. It transcends mere rallying; it's the ultimate test of endurance and spirit,” he remarked after his inaugural finish.

The Dakar Rally is recognized as one of the most demanding motorsport events worldwide, traversing stages of sand, dunes, rocks, and diverse terrains over a span of two weeks. The Dakar Classic emphasizes endurance and navigational skill for older rally vehicles, testing teams on precision rather than sheer speed.

This year, Takale is anticipated to be the sole Indian entry in the four-wheeled segment for the second successive year, highlighting the still-limited Indian representation in international cross-country four-wheel rallying. The 2026 Dakar Rally will take place in Saudi Arabia, with a route expected to include a blend of liaison and competitive stages across the desert.