South African motorsport fans have a new reason to celebrate at the 2026 Dakar Rally. Leander Pienaar, owner of Jetsport Outdoor South Africa and seasoned rally navigator, has joined the world’s most challenging off‑road race this year. He competes in the prestigious SSV (Side‑by‑Side Vehicle) class aboard a Can‑Am Maverick, representing South African grit and global rally spirit.
The Dakar Rally started on 3 January in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, and runs over nearly 8 000 km of desert, dunes, rocky tracks, and unforgiving terrain. The race challenges every combination of driver and navigator to tackle extreme conditions and changing landscapes over 14 stages before it finishes on 17 January.
Pienaar navigates alongside driver Abdullah Al‑Fahad in the Dark Horse Team’s BRP Can‑Am Maverick X3. This pairing brings together Pienaar’s deep rally experience and Al‑Fahad’s ambition as a first‑time Dakar driver. Their journey highlights how international relationships can build exciting racing collaborations.
Leander Pienaar is no stranger to tough rally environments. He began his competitive career in 2016, competing in South African cross‑country championships with various vehicles and drivers. His most notable early outing in a Toyota Hilux with Ebenhaezer Basson opened the door to his first Dakar Rally debut. In that first Dakar, he delivered a strong performance, finishing seventh in the SSV category.
After a brief three‑year hiatus from the Dakar, Pienaar returned in 2026 with fresh energy and determination. His partnership with Al‑Fahad blends Pienaar’s rally knowledge with a new driver’s fresh perspective. The team aimed not just to compete but to embrace the full Dakar experience—pushing their limits, learning from each stage, and enjoying the rally’s unique culture and atmosphere.
Although their rally ended prematurely on Stage 4 due to a crash that damaged the vehicle’s chassis, Pienaar and Al‑Fahad took valuable lessons from the event. They were positioned well in the overall SSV standings at the time, showing competitive pace before the incident. Even with their exit, Pienaar reflected on the experience with optimism and appreciation for the challenge.
Reflecting on his Dakar journey, Pienaar shared that the rally remains a special challenge for every participant. He pointed out how the friendships formed, the cultural exchanges, and the shared passion for off‑road racing make the experience unforgettable—even when the competition ends earlier than hoped.
For BRP and Can‑Am fans across South Africa, Pienaar’s involvement in the Dakar Rally shines a spotlight on local talent in one of motorsport’s toughest arenas. His commitment to adventure, performance, and off‑road excellence reflects the very spirit of Can‑Am — a brand that thrives where the road ends and the terrain begins.
