apx2muc Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Daniel Sanders delivered a strong performance on stage three of the 2026 Dakar Rally, finishing third on one of the most demanding days of the event so far. Teammate Luciano Benavides followed closely in fourth place, while Edgar Canet completed the stage in seventh.
Stage three featured a long and challenging route around AlUla, with riders tackling a total distance of 736 kilometers, including the longest timed special of the rally at 421 kilometers. The stage tested navigation skills heavily, with sandy canyons, narrow tracks, and frequent changes in pace leaving little room for error.
Opening the stage, Sanders managed the difficult conditions well and earned valuable bonus time, securing his fourth consecutive top-three finish. His consistent results mean he continues to lead the overall standings, holding a narrow advantage of just over one minute.
Benavides made the most of his starting position, pushing hard early and staying near the front despite tough navigation and a few minor mistakes late in the stage. His fourth-place finish moves him up to fifth overall.
Canet rode steadily throughout the day, focusing on clean navigation and consistency. Despite the demanding terrain, he avoided major errors and brought his KTM home in seventh, maintaining a strong overall position heading into the next stage.
With stage four marking the start of the first marathon stage, riders now face another long and physically demanding test, with no outside assistance allowed overnight.
