Riyadh: The 2026 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia stands as evidence of the continued growth of the sports events and competitions industry in the Kingdom, particularly for this race, which features numerous diverse elements. Despite the excitement and intense competition across the rally stages, safety remains a key pillar, requiring supervisory teams to possess extensive expertise to handle the most challenging conditions.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the medical team for the 2026 Dakar Rally is considered an essential component of the rally system, committed to ensuring the safety of all competitors and workers involved in this major event. Organizers have prepared a field hospital to serve as a receiving and treatment facility for urgent cases.

The medical team comprises 76 personnel, including 35 physicians with specialties ranging from emergency medicine, anesthesia, and orthopedic surgery to general surgery, as well as two radiology specialists and one gastrointestinal surgery specialist. The team also includes 24 anesthetic nurses providing services in cases requiring surgical intervention, as well as 10 physical therapy specialists.

The medical team operates throughout the competitors' racing periods, deploying five helicopters: four dedicated to medical missions, two on standby, and one capable of night flights.

Ensuring the safety of competitors and staff across the Dakar environment is a core pillar and primary objective for organizers and officials of this prominent global event. This reflects the Kingdom's distinguished capabilities in hosting major international sporting events, supported by the unwavering backing of the wise leadership for the sports sector.