Brabec wins for Honda
Famous victory in the desert for Honda’s American hero
Ricky Brabec made Dakar history as the first Honda winner in 31 years after securing victory in the 42nd running of the gruelling event, which this year took place in Saudi Arabia for the first time. The win also ends KTM’s run of 18 consecutive victories.
The 28-year-old American won with a combination of pace, skilful navigation and, above all, zero mistakes. As the race progressed his competition fell by the wayside as both top Brit Sam Sunderland and Adrian van Beveren crashed out in week one while former winners Toby Price and Matthias Walkner had technical and navigational issues in week two. Brabec arrived at the rest day in charge and then soaked up the pressure to ultimately win by 16m 26s after over 40 hours of racing. “It’s quite an accomplishment for Honda and for America,” he said. “It’s a dream come true.” In 2013, after a 24-year absence, Honda returned to the Dakar paddock with a full HRC effort. But despite their meticulous and big budget approach they were unable to topple Austrian experts KTM – until now.
Brabec is also the first ever American to win the event and is already targeting more victories. “Hopefully we can come back next year and repeat it. I know it’s not going to be easy as the Husky and KTM boys will be breathing down our necks. To be the only American to accomplish this goal is amazing. I’ve got a five-year contract so I think we’ll be back.” Chillean rider and former World Rally champion Pablo Quintanilla ended the race as Brabec’s closest rival with 2019 winner Toby Price finishing third, 24m 05s behind the American.