The Africa Eco Race had long been held at the same time as the Dakar Rally, whose original route from Europe to Africa is replicated by the former. This clash will finally come to an end next year when the 2026 AER begins on January 24 and concludes on February 7.

Since the inaugural race in 2009, the Africa Eco Race typically started in late December or early January and ended in the middle of the latter. These dates often overlapped with the Dakar Rally’s, which was moved to South America that year and currently takes place in Saudi Arabia. The recently concluded 2025 race, for example, began on December 28 and finished January 12.

2022, the first race since COVID-19, saw a break from the trend as it took place ran from October 14 to 30. The 2023 edition was set for March 11–26 before severe flooding in Dakar prompted a postponement to December 30, turning it into the 2024 Eco Race.

“Mark Your Calendars: We invite all competitors and rally-raid enthusiasts to join us for the 17th edition of the Africa Eco Race, set to take place from January 24 to February 7, 2026,” reads a statement from race organizers. “This edition once again showcased the authentic spirit of African rally raids, following in the footsteps of Thierry Sabine, with a traditional finish at Lac Rose. The large crowd celebrated the competitors who conquered the desert, sharing moments of pride and emotion with them.

“All eyes are now on the next edition. The dates for the 2026 Africa Eco Race have been set: technical inspections will take place on January 24, with the finish line in Dakar on February 7, 2026.”

While the ASO has not announced the dates for the 2026 Dakar Rally, it is expected to remain in its current spot. The 2025 Dakar runs from January 3 to 17.

Featured image credit: Rainbow Truck Team