POLARIS RZR FACTORY RACING AND LOEB FRAYMÉDIA MOTORSPORT ANNOUNCE FIVE-DRIVER LINEUP FOR 2026 DAKAR RALLY
Reigning 2025 Champion Brock Heger & 2024 Champion Xavier De Soultrait Return as Team Chases Third-Consecutive Dakar Victory
All-New, Purpose-Built Polaris Race Vehicle to Debut in New SSV1 Category
Polaris Off Road, with LOEB FrayMédia Motorsport, has unveiled a formidable five-driver roster for the 2026 Dakar Rally. Led by back-to-back champions Brock Heger and Xavier De Soultrait, the Polaris RZR Factory Racing team enters the event with momentum, experience, and a clear goal: secure a third-straight Dakar Rally championship.
The 2026 program marks a major expansion for Polaris with the introduction of the SSV1 category. To take on this new class, Polaris engineered an all-new race platform built from the ground up—part of a dual-platform strategy that showcases the brand’s relentless commitment to innovation, durability, and race-proven performance. Drivers competing in the T4 category will continue to run the championship-winning RZR Pro R Factory, the machine that delivered Polaris historic victories in 2024 and 2025.
“Dakar represents the ultimate test of vehicle performance and team resilience, and our goal for 2026 is simple – defend our title while demonstrating the full strength of Polaris’ innovation,” said Alex Scheuerell, Director of Off-Road Motorsports at Polaris. “With two Dakar champions leading our five-driver lineup, and the debut of our all-new race platform, we’re entering the rally more prepared and more ambitious than ever.”
2026 POLARIS RZR FACTORY RACING DRIVER LINEUP
The team brings together elite champions, rising stars, and proven rally-raid athletes across two classes:
SSV1 Class
Brock Heger – The reigning 2025 Dakar Champion and 2025 SCORE Series Champion, Heger is known for his smooth driving style, race intelligence, and consistent performance across multiple off-road disciplines.
Xavier De Soultrait – The 2024 Dakar Champion, De Soultrait’s transition from top-tier motorcycle competition to SSV racing highlights his adaptability and precision. His calm, methodical approach under pressure has made him one of rally-raid’s most respected competitors.
Goncalo Guerreiro – A rising Portuguese rally-raid talent, Guerreiro’s early success and JB Racing pedigree position him as one of the sport’s most promising young drivers.
T4 Class
Johan Kristoffersson – A multi-time World Rallycross Champion, Kristoffersson is regarded globally for his precision, versatility, and unmatched consistency across all surfaces.
Florent Vayssade – A seasoned French rally-raid competitor whose diverse athletic background—from elite kayaking to motorcycles and now SSVs—reflects his deep endurance capabilities and adaptability. His Dakar experience brings valuable steadiness to the Polaris program.
Each driver will be paired with experienced co-drivers, supported by LOEB FrayMédia Motorsport and Polaris engineers, ensuring optimized vehicle performance, reliability, and race strategy throughout the grueling 14-day event.
INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW PRO R RALLY FOR SSV1
Launching alongside the new SSV1 category is Polaris’ completely redesigned race machine: the Pro R Rally. Engineered specifically for Dakar’s extreme terrain, the platform meets international racing standards and brings a suite of race-focused upgrades, including:
• DYNAMIX Semi-Active Suspension – Tuned in-house to absorb Dakar’s brutal and unpredictable terrain.
• Full MoTeC Engine Management & Data Acquisition – Delivering elite-level control and real-time performance insights.
• Sleek Side-Intake Scoops – Enhancing airflow to the engine and cooling system, doubling as streamlined number plates.
• Full Carbon-Fiber Dash & Windshield Frame – Reducing weight while adding rigidity and a true race-car feel.
• FIA-Homologated Race Cage – Engineered to withstand Dakar-level impacts and maintain maximum driver protection.
With a deep driver roster, enhanced vehicle capability, and a legacy of championship performance, Polaris RZR Factory Racing and LOEB FrayMédia Motorsport enter the 2026 Dakar Rally with a singular mission: push the limits of off-road performance and capture a third consecutive Dakar crown.
Dakar 2026 takes place January 3–17 in Saudi Arabia.
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