Uploaded January 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
The Dakar Rally 2025 has been one of the toughest editions yet, and Ross Branch (Monster Energy Hero Rally Team) and Bradley Cox (KTM) are taking a well-earned rest day to regroup for the second week. Both riders have shared their thoughts on the challenges so far and their strategies for the days ahead.
Ross Branch – Monster Energy Hero Rally Team:
Toughest First Week: Ross describes this as the hardest opening week he’s ever faced at Dakar. Despite being 30 minutes off the lead, he’s staying consistent and focused.
Navigation Challenges: The mental demands of navigating this year’s tricky routes have been intense. Ross is riding at 85-90% to limit mistakes while staying competitive.
Teamwork with Teammate: With teammate Joaquim Rodrigues starting just ahead of him, Ross plans to use his navigation skills to his advantage in the long stages ahead.
Bonus Time Strategy: Ross explains how the bonus time system works for riders opening stages, but admits it’s a risky game to play.
Bradley Cox – KTM:
Hardest Dakar Yet: Bradley agrees this is the toughest Dakar he’s experienced, with long, grueling stages and freezing nights.
Supporting the Rookies: Bradley has been a pillar of support for rookies like Villiers Steyn and Dwayne, who are tackling their first Dakar. His advice? “Keep pushing – you’ve come this far!”
Future Plans: As a free agent, Bradley is focused on delivering strong results to secure a factory seat for the future.
Looking Ahead to Week 2:
Longest Stage Tomorrow: Both riders are gearing up for the longest stage of the rally, which includes a massive 600 km liaison before the racing even begins.
Short but Tricky Stages: The 120 km dune stage later in the week is expected to be a navigation nightmare, with riders pushing hard to make up time.
South Africa, let’s rally behind Ross, Bradley, and all our riders! 🇿🇦 They’re flying the flag high in one of the most demanding races on the planet.
Go Team South Africa! 🏁
#Dakar2025 #DakarRally #RossBranch #BradleyCox #SouthAfrica #RallyRaid #Motorsport #Teamwork #SouthernAfrica #DakarInSaudi #DBAC #RacedayTV🏆
The Dakar Rally 2025 has been one of the toughest editions yet, and Ross Branch (Monster Energy Hero Rally Team) and Bradley Cox (KTM) are taking a well-earned rest day to regroup for the second week. Both riders have shared their thoughts on the challenges so far and their strategies for the days ahead.
Ross Branch – Monster Energy Hero Rally Team:
Toughest First Week: Ross describes this as the hardest opening week he’s ever faced at Dakar. Despite being 30 minutes off the lead, he’s staying consistent and focused.
Navigation Challenges: The mental demands of navigating this year’s tricky routes have been intense. Ross is riding at 85-90% to limit mistakes while staying competitive.
Teamwork with Teammate: With teammate Joaquim Rodrigues starting just ahead of him, Ross plans to use his navigation skills to his advantage in the long stages ahead.
Bonus Time Strategy: Ross explains how the bonus time system works for riders opening stages, but admits it’s a risky game to play.
Bradley Cox – KTM:
Hardest Dakar Yet: Bradley agrees this is the toughest Dakar he’s experienced, with long, grueling stages and freezing nights.
Supporting the Rookies: Bradley has been a pillar of support for rookies like Villiers Steyn and Dwayne, who are tackling their first Dakar. His advice? “Keep pushing – you’ve come this far!”
Future Plans: As a free agent, Bradley is focused on delivering strong results to secure a factory seat for the future.
Looking Ahead to Week 2:
Longest Stage Tomorrow: Both riders are gearing up for the longest stage of the rally, which includes a massive 600 km liaison before the racing even begins.
Short but Tricky Stages: The 120 km dune stage later in the week is expected to be a navigation nightmare, with riders pushing hard to make up time.
South Africa, let’s rally behind Ross, Bradley, and all our riders! 🇿🇦 They’re flying the flag high in one of the most demanding races on the planet.
Go Team South Africa! 🏁
#Dakar2025 #DakarRally #RossBranch #BradleyCox #SouthAfrica #RallyRaid #Motorsport #Teamwork #SouthernAfrica #DakarInSaudi #DBAC #RacedayTV🏆
