Sanders will return to the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) after winning the riders’ championship in the RallyGP division. That included taking his famous first Dakar Rally win.

The Australian won four of the five W2RC rounds, and became just the second rider to lead the Dakar Rally from beginning to end.

“Everything’s going to plan, I’m keeping the same set up so I’m really comfortable with where we are at with the bike,” said Sanders of his preparation.

“I’m confident in my fitness, everything is feeling great after Morocco and we’re back in fighting shape.

“We’re in the middle of a training block with the team in Morocco over the next few weeks, but I’m really excited to go into Dakar.

“Obviously, there is some pressure after the win this year, but we’re training hard for this and I know I can perform.

“The team is in a really good place, I feel ready, so we are all committed to getting out there and getting the job done again.

“It’s a long race for sure. Every Dakar is different so we always take it day by day and do the best we can.

“Motivation is at an all-time high after our success this year, so I can’t wait for January.”

KTM team manager Andreas Holzl hailed Sanders’ form heading into 2026.

“We are ready for Dakar! Chucky is really well prepared after his incredible season and he has proven that he is the best in the world,” said Holzl.

“Heading into Dakar 2026 as reigning champion, he will of course be looking to defend his title so most of his setup will remain the same.

“The team is doing an amazing job from the technical side in preparing the bikes perfectly for the guys, and they work so hard every day behind the scenes to get everything ready.

“We’re excited to get out to Saudi Arabia and defend our titles.”

Sanders will be joined at KTM by Luciano Benavides and Edgar Canet.

Benavides just missed out on the podium in fourth, while Canet was only eighth. Their primary rivals in this year’s Dakar Rally were Honda duo Tosha Schareina and Adrien van Beveren, who were second and third respectively.

Benavides missed the season-ending Rally du Maroc, but is confident he’ll be fighting fit for the season-opening Dakar Rally to start the new year.

“Preparations for Dakar have been pretty tough after my crash in Morocco,” said the Argentine.

“My main goal has been to get fitter every day and get back on the bike as soon as possible to be ready to race Dakar.

“There are so many positives to take from this year, even from my injury as it has forced me to take a step back and focus on myself 100 percent.

“It’s awesome to be back on the bike now for our training and testing in Morocco, and I’m confident that I’ll be in even better condition in time for Dakar because of it.

“I think it will be tough mentally, because it is the first time I’ll be racing the Dakar Rally after a recent injury, but as always my goal is to do my best every single day.

“I’ve gained a lot of experience and perspective over the years, so I know it works for me to focus on myself and not compare results and times to other riders.

“I’ll be giving it my all on every kilometre of every stage! If I can do that, I believe I can end up on the podium. I’m looking forward to getting out there.”

The 48th edition of the Dakar Rally takes place on January 3-17.