Dakar Rally 2023: Stage 5 Recap
HAIL, Saudi Arabia – In a remarkable debut at the Dakar Rally, Preston Campbell of the Monster Energy/Honda HRC Rally Team continues to dominate the Rally2 class, securing a third-place finish in Stage 5. Campbell holds a commanding lead with over a 20-minute advantage ahead of his nearest competitor as the rally approaches its midpoint.
Honda’s decision to enter the Rally2 class has proven strategic, introducing 50 of the new CRF450RX Rally production bikes, modeled after the successful CRF450 Rally. Campbell and teammate Martim Ventura are the key riders representing Honda in this competitive division.
After five grueling stages, Campbell, who is the son of renowned off-road racer Johnny Campbell, emphasizes his strategy: “I’m not going to change my strategy… I’ll keep doing what I’m doing because it seems to be working out.” He remains focused on navigation and consistency as he navigates the remaining eight stages.
Teammate Ricky Brabec, a two-time Dakar winner, finished fifth in Stage 5 and currently stands second overall in the RallyGP title chase.
The rally’s Marathon stage presented additional challenges, with racers camping overnight in the desert—a nod to the event’s storied history. Reflecting on the experience, Campbell remarked, “Marathon was good… Good stars, the weather was nice. Hanging out with all my friends. It was nice.”
As the Dakar Rally continues, the stage is set for further developments in both the Rally2 and RallyGP classes, with Campbell emerging as a formidable contender. Daily updates and insights will follow as the event unfolds.
