Anthony Raynard is gearing up for the 2026 Dakar Rally, marking a major milestone in his motorsport career as he turns to community support to make his dream a reality.
South Africa (14 November 2025) – Anthony Raynard is gearing up to take on the Dakar Rally, one of the world’s most gruelling motorsport adventures. Known for his versatility across multiple racing disciplines, Anthony has spent decades building a career defined by adaptability, and now he’s set to represent South African motorsport on a global stage.
His journey began in motocross, where he turned professional in 2008 and quickly racked up podium finishes in MX1 and MX2 classes. By 2012, he had claimed the South African National Motocross Championship. But Anthony did not stop there. He expanded into supercross, enduro, and rally‑raid racing, proving that his passion and ability could thrive across any terrain.
Transitioning from motocross, which is all-out intensity for a short burst, to rally‑raid racing, which demands endurance, navigation skills, and mechanical precision over hours of riding, has been a steep learning curve.
“Motocross is all‑out intensity for 30 minutes. Rally raid is a marathon.”
Even with his impressive track record, Anthony faces challenges beyond the physical. Funding is a major hurdle. After securing his Dakar entry, two key sponsors withdrew, leaving him scrambling to cover mounting costs in euros. Rather than step back, Anthony has turned to the motorsport community for support.
Through BackaBuddy, he has launched a public campaign inviting fans, friends, and motorsport enthusiasts to join him on the Dakar journey.
“Every ride, every gym session, every bit of planning is part of the bigger picture. I’m trusting the process and giving this everything. I want to show that anything is possible when you believe in yourself and your community believes in you.”
Anthony’s Dakar bid is significant for South African motorsport. His participation puts the nation back in the spotlight for the bike category, inspires other privateers to pursue ambitious goals, and showcases the power of community involvement in helping athletes reach their dreams.
Preparation is already in full swing. Anthony is riding long distances, sharpening his navigation, and refining his bike and gear in varying terrains across South Africa and Namibia. Carrying the number 23 on his bike in honour of his late mother, Anthony is ready to face the physical, logistical, and mental challenges that lie ahead.
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With his BackaBuddy campaign, supporters can contribute, share, or simply follow Anthony’s progress, becoming part of a journey that is putting South African motorsport on the global map.
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