Florian Dakar Team, a Czech team consisting of volunteer firefighters, will enter the 2026 Dakar Classic with an Avia Renault-Saviem SM8 fire truck.

Michal Pour, a driver by trade, will pilot the truck. Tomáš Šmatolán will serve as mechanic while David Snopko is navigator.

The team will support the Police and Firefighters Foundation (Nadace policistů a hasičů) and KRTEK Children’s Oncology Foundation.

“Every kilometer we drive is a celebration of courage, honor, and respect for life,” reads a team statement. “Together we can change the world. Join us and be a part of the journey.”

Actor and radio personality Vlasta Korec is one of the team’s major backers. Korec has frequently supported Czech competitors at the Dakar Rally.

The SM8, developed by Saviem from the 1960s through 1980s and badged under Renault and Avia Motors, competed in the Paris–Dakar Rally throughout the race’s infancy. In 1980, the Dakar’s second edition, two SM8s finished fifth and sixth with Jean-Claude Marie and Jacques Frumholtz as drivers, respectively.

Featured image credit: Florian Dakar Team