A Record year

Each year, the fascination and pull of the Dakar are stronger than ever, as is its capacity to inspire dreams and passion for adventure and the desert. The 2006 vintage is no exception to the rule. No less than 747 vehicles will be lining up in Lisbon for the 28th edition, among which 240 motorcycles, 187 cars and 80 trucks, topped up by 240 registrations in the Assistance category. After the 695 competitors in the 2005 edition, 2006 will be a new benchmark.

With 40 nations represented, the Dakar this year confirms once more its international stamp, even if the French still make up the largest contingent with 33% of registrations followed by the Spanish, Belgians, Dutch and Italians. Another trend is gaining ground. Each year, the Dakar is opening up a little more to women, and this time 23 will be lining up in Lisbon: 8 bikers and 15 in Car and Truck categories.

First-timers will also be thick on the ground - 38% on motorcycles and 8% in cars, a real freshers’ ball.

Once again this year, Amaury Sport Organisation had to deal with a spate of requests. The maximum enrolment quotas were reached as early as June, forcing the organisation to close registrations in order to ensure that the race took place in proper conditions, both from a sporting point of view and so as to preserve the friendly atmosphere of the bivouac.