"I get why people want to go back every year"

Jacob Argubright declared that he'd "like to catch the eye" when he lined up for his maiden Dakar in 2023, and the talented American did just that -finishing in 22nd position as the third-best rookie and coming as high as 15th on Stage 13. The 32-year-old may have been making his first appearance at the world's toughest rally, but he is certainly no stranger to offroad racing. Growing up in Southern California, he got his first bike at age three and spent his childhood exploring the local desert tracks. Encouraged by his father Steve, himself a racer, Jacob went on to star in some of the USA's biggest events, winning titles at Best In The Desert, Vegas to Reno and the AMA Hare & Hound. He says he has the speed to match the best Americans in rally-raid -he grew up competing with Dakar 2020 winner Ricky Brabec, amongst others- but as he is still a relative newcomer to the sport, navigation remains his Achilles heel. Nevertheless, Jacob remains a fierce competitor and goes into Dakar 2024 with designs on a place in the top 10 overall. He describes last year's edition as "life-changing", adding that it has given him invaluable experience for this second outing. On an improved Husqvarna and once again with the backing of the renowned Duust Rally team, he is hoping to upset some of the more favoured factory riders between AlUla and Yanbu.

"Dakar 2023 was life-changing, for sure. It was the coolest adventure I've ever done. I loved it and I can understand the hype, I get why people want to go back every year. I had a mechanical on I think the second or third day, a gas tank issue which cost me a lot of time. So I was a little bit disappointed in my overall result. I didn't actually think the rally was that tough. Now I'm more calm and collected, so it'll be down to business. I understand how everything works, so I'll focus on making sure I've got tip-top speed and a slightly better bike setup. Last year I rode a stock bike, but this year I'm going to have a better package. To be honest I'd like to get into the top 10. I didn't achieve it last year but that's still my goal. I'm always Mr Consistent, but I'd like to show a little bit more sprinting and outright speed. I also like inclement weather. We got to shred so much wet dirt last year, it was a dirtbike dream. I like when it's tough, that's fine for me, although it could be a bit warmer! I haven't done too many races this year. I went to Sonora with the Duust team and took Konrad [Dabrowski] racing in a few places."