Dakar-winning Dacia Sandrider heads to Festival of Speed

After impressing its way to victory at the 2026 Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia, the Dacia Sandrider will head to Goodwood for this summer’s upcoming Festival of Speed event.

Behind the wheel will be legendary driver Sébastien Loeb, who is set to take the Sandrider up the iconic Goodwood Hillclimb and showcase its rally strengths in the Off-Road Arena.

The West Sussex countryside is a far cry from the dunes of Saudi Arabia, where the Sandriders stormed to victory ahead of two Ford Raptors in only their second Dakar appearance. Lina Ribeiro, Dacia Brand Director for the UK, said, “seeing it unleashed at Goodwood is going to be something really special.”

Sébastien Loeb of The Dacia Sandriders

Sébastien Loeb, Driver, The Dacia Sandriders said: “I’m really pleased to be coming back to Goodwood Festival of Speed. It’s such a legendary event, with a very special atmosphere and so many passionate fans. To be there with the Dacia Sandrider, a car that has won the Dakar, will be a great moment. It’s a very impressive car to drive, and I can’t wait to show it off in front of the Goodwood crowd.”

The Festival of Speed lineup is looking more stacked than ever for 2026, with stars like Lando Norris, Valentino Rossi and Damon Hill just some of many confirmed to be attending. There will also be appearances from some of the most anticipated future car releases, including the Renault 5 Turbo 3E and legendary classics like the 1966 Le Mans 1-2-3-finishing Ford GT Mk IIs.

The 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place from 9-12 July.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Dacia