Finishing the Dakar Rally is one of the hardest achievements in motorsport. For British rider Robbie Wallace, completing it in 2026 was not just a result. It was the realisation of a lifelong dream.
After crashing out the year before, Wallace returned stronger, more focused, and better prepared. This time, he finished the race, placed 43rd overall, and became the top British motorbike competitor.
Growing up in Northallerton, Wallace had watched Dakar since childhood. He began riding at eight and racing at eleven, always with one goal in mind.
“To finish Dakar was something I never thought I would achieve,” he said.
But years of dedication made it possible.
Saudi Arabia, he faced over 5,000 miles of desert, dunes, and extreme terrain across two demanding weeks.
Dakar is not only tough in the heat. Many stages begin before sunrise, with riders setting off in near darkness.
Daily starts at around 04:00 meant Wallace often raced through the desert with limited visibility. Reliable lighting was essential.
This is where Exposure Lights played a key role.
Mounted to his KTM , his two Exposure R3 Adventure lights delivered consistent, powerful illumination through dust, dunes, and night stages. When fatigue set in and concentration dipped, clear white light kept his line clear, hazards visible, and decision-making sharp, helping him ride safely and confidently in the toughest conditions on earth.
“In Dakar, seeing clearly is everything,” Wallace explained. “You cannot afford mistakes when you are tired.”
During the second week, Wallace injured his back in a fall. Many riders would have stopped.
He kept going.
Through pain, exhaustion, and long days, he stayed focused. Clear lighting and dependable kit helped him manage risk when conditions were at their worst.
Two weeks later, he crossed the finish line.
“It was the best day of my life,” he said.
