Dakar Rally Stage 4 Recap: Monster Energy/Honda HRC Rally Team Shines in Saudi Desert
January 7, 2026 (ALULA, Saudi Arabia) – The Monster Energy/Honda HRC Rally team showcased a commanding performance during Stage 4 of the Dakar Rally, with Tosha Schareina taking first place, closely followed by Ricky Brabec in second and Skyler Howes in third. This strong showing allowed Schareina and Brabec to leapfrog defending champion Daniel Sanders (KTM), who now sits third overall in the standings.
Both Schareina and Brabec finished the Marathon Stage with an identical overall time of 16:45:40, making them virtually tied for the overall lead in the RallyGP class. The trio completed the stage within ten seconds of one another: Schareina clocked 04:31:56, Brabec at 04:32:02 (0:06 behind), and Howes at 04:32:06 (0:10 behind). Ross Branch from Hero Motosports also joined the top five, reaffirming the competitiveness of the stage.
In the support Rally2 class, rookie Preston Campbell from the same team not only won Stage 4 but also took the lead in the overall standings for his division.
As competitors settle into the bivouac for the night, they face a strict communication blackout from their teams, meaning no quotes or interviews will be available until tomorrow.
Looking Ahead to Stage 5: The Marathon Stage continues with additional challenges. Racers will deal with navigational difficulties as they transition from sandy terrains to rocky trails, testing both their skills and mental endurance. After a grueling day, the bivouac in Hail will be a welcome sight.
Notable Standings:
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Stage 4 Results:
- 1st: Tosha Schareina (04:31:56)
- 2nd: Ricky Brabec (+00:06)
- 3rd: Skyler Howes (+00:10)
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Overall Standings after Stage 4:
- 1st: Tosha Schareina (16:45:40)
- 2nd: Ricky Brabec (16:45:40)
- 3rd: Daniel Sanders (overall time TBD)
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Rally2 Standings:
- 1st: Preston Campbell (04:50:59, +08:41 from Stage 4)
The relentless pace of the Dakar Rally continues, promising more intense action in the days ahead.
