Can-Am's Maverick R Dominates the 2026 Dakar Rally with Kyle Chaney's Stellar Performance

A Triumph at the 2026 Dakar Rally

The 2026 Dakar Rally concluded with Can-Am's factory racer Kyle Chaney achieving an impressive second overall finish, marking a spectacular debut for the newcomer at this grueling competition. Along with his co-driver Jacob Argubright, Chaney navigated the challenges of the world-renowned rally with remarkable skill, securing a podium position that underscores the Can-Am Maverick R's reputation for excellence in off-road racing.

Can-Am, a notable brand owned by BRP Inc., demonstrated its racing prowess with another outstanding performance at the Dakar Rally, which covered over 8,000 kilometers of treacherous desert terrain. The highlights of this year's rally included not only Chaney's triumphant result but also the accomplishment of six factory-supported drivers finishing in the top ten overall, along with five stage victories. This evidences the Maverick R's durability and performance capabilities, further establishing it as a leader in side-by-side vehicles (SSVs).

Unmatched Team Effort

Jean-François Leclerc, Race Manager at BRP, praised the entire team's efforts. He noted, "Our team made huge strides this year. From the racers to the mechanics and our partners at South Racing, everyone gave their maximum effort and rose to the occasion. Our multiple stage wins and consistent podium results are a testament to the strength and reliability of the Can-Am Maverick R platform. We know there's more ahead, and we're committed to pushing harder to reclaim the top step of the podium."

Chaney’s performance throughout the rally was characterized by a balanced approach, reflecting the maturity of a seasoned racer despite being a rookie. His journey culminated in an impressive performance during stage five, where he not only showcased his driving capabilities but also his navigation skills, allowing him to clinch an important victory.

Consistency is Key

With an overall finishing time of 56 hours, 13 minutes, and 35 seconds, Chaney exemplified consistency and quick decision-making, maintaining a commendable pace while managing risks throughout the rally stages. Reflecting on his experience, Chaney shared, "This was my first year at Dakar, and I didn't really know what to expect. I'm happy that we finished on the podium despite facing both good and bad stages. Now, with the experience under my belt, I know what adjustments we need for next year."

The results achieved by Can-Am drivers included standout performances from other competitors, such as Joao Monteiro in fourth place and Jeremias Gonzalez Ferioli in fifth, highlighting the overall strength of the Can-Am team.

A Platform Built for the Harshest Conditions

The completion of the Dakar Rally not only strengthens Can-Am's brand presence in the off-road racing circuit but also provides invaluable insights for the Maverick R's continuous development. The turbocharged triple-cylinder engine of the Maverick R proved its mettle as it powered through an array of demanding racing conditions, validating the vehicle's engineering excellence.

The Dakar Rally serves as a crucial proving ground for Can-Am's racing vehicles. With its emphasis on durability and performance, this event allows the brand to refine its vehicles for both competition and consumer use. Each success on the racecourse translates into innovations that benefit everyday riders, ensuring that they enjoy the same levels of reliability and performance in their vehicles that are showcased by the racers.

Community and Fan Engagement

Can-Am continues to engage its community by sharing highlights and behind-the-scenes content from the Dakar Rally across its social media platforms. Fans can follow @canamoffroad and @canamfactoryteam for the latest updates and insights from the rally and beyond.

Through its commitment to excellence, performance, and innovation, Can-Am not only celebrates individual victories at events like the Dakar Rally but also continually strives to push the boundaries of what is possible in off-road racing.

As the team dusts off the sands from this year’s competition, they look towards the future with renewed determination and the goal of climbing even higher on the podium in the upcoming years.