Red Bull KTM Factory Racing has announced the signing of young rider Edgar Canet for the 2025 Dakar Rally. Canet, who will join the team in the Rally2 category, will be joined by an experienced all-star line-up of Kevin Benavides, Daniel Sanders and Luciano Benavides . Collaborating with these veterans promises to offer the Spaniard a unique learning opportunity in his first venture into this demanding competition.
Edgar Canet, just 19 years old, has had a year of intense preparation. To ensure qualification for the Dakar, he participated in several high-level events, including the Rally of Portugal, the Rallye du Maroc, the Desafío Ruta 40, the Oasis Rally and the Baja Aragón. His World Championship debut came in 2024 at the Rally Portugal, where he quickly attracted attention by securing third place in the prologue and finishing eleventh overall, also reaching the podium in his category.
In his Dakar debut, Canet's main goal is to complete the event and gain experience in one of motorsport's most challenging competitions. However, a solid result in the Rally2 category would certainly be a notable achievement. The rider dedicated much of his time to technical preparation, including intense navigation work and roadbook reading, as well as training sessions alongside his new teammates in America.
Andreas Hölzl – Team Manager Rally: 'We are super happy to announce that Edgar Canet is joining us in Rally2 for the Dakar! He has done a great job this season and is a very promising young talent. At just 19 years old, he is performing really well and we can't wait to support him in his first Dakar.'
The 2025 Dakar will be a real test for Edgar Canet, who will face the challenges of the desert with the support of one of the most prestigious teams in the rally scene. The legendary event promises to be not only a milestone in the young Spaniard's career, but also an opportunity to consolidate his position as one of the great talents of international motorcycling.