Dakar Rally 2026 delivered another thrilling chapter as the grueling Marathon Stage reshaped the cars category standings. The Saudi desert once again tested the limits of automotive engineering, driver skill, and endurance. And Polish driver Eric Gokzal emerged as the standout performer, taking the lead in the cars category.
Gokzal’s Stage Win Highlights Automotive Precision
Stage nine of the 2026 Dakar Rally spanned 532 kilometers from Wadi Ad Dawasir to the Marathon Camp, with 410 kilometers timed as a competitive special. Gokzal, driving for Energylandia Rally, completed the stage in 3 hours, 46 minutes, and 42 seconds. Outperforming his fellow competitors by a margin of 7 minutes and 45 seconds. His performance under extreme desert conditions underscores both his driving precision and the reliability of his vehicle. A critical factor in the punishing Marathon Stage.
Australian rally veteran Toby Price, representing Toyota Gazoo Racing, finished third, 11 minutes and 36 seconds behind Gokzal. Proving that even seasoned automotive teams face intense pressure in the Sahara’s shifting sands.
The stage highlighted how vehicle durability, suspension tuning, and tire management can dramatically influence results in rally-raid competitions.
Shifts in Overall Cars Standings
The Marathon Stage also caused significant changes in the overall cars leaderboard. Spanish driver Nani Roma, in a Ford Racing vehicle, took the top overall position with a cumulative time of 36 hours, 44 minutes, and 1 second. Narrowly edging teammate Carlos Sainz by just 57 seconds. Qatari legend Nasser Al-Attiyah, driving a Dacia Sandriders model, dropped to third, 1 minute and 10 seconds behind Roma.
These small time differentials illustrate how vehicle efficiency, navigation strategy, and endurance engineering can determine podium placements.
Automotive Engineering and Performance Under Pressure
The Marathon Stage demands more than driver skill. It’s a test of automotive engineering. Vehicles endure extreme heat, sand abrasion, and mechanical stress. This can compromise engines, suspensions, and tires. Gokzal’s win reflects not only his driving talent but also the engineering resilience of his car. A key factor for any manufacturer or racing team aiming to succeed in Dakar Rally 2026.
Conclusion
As Dakar Rally 2026 progresses, the cars category remains a showcase of automotive performance under extreme conditions. Eric Gokzal’s victory in the Marathon Stage demonstrates how driver expertise and vehicle durability intersect to produce top results.
With narrow time gaps at the top, the remainder of the rally promises high-stakes battles, engineering challenges, and exciting finishes. Solidifying this edition of Dakar as a testament to endurance, strategy, and automotive excellence.
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