Why This Matters: Treviño’s Historic Bid for Dakar

Treviño’s progress marks a significant milestone for Mexican women in motorsport. If she qualifies, she will become the first Mexican woman to compete in the Dakar Rally, following in the footsteps of drivers like Nani Roma and Carlos Sainz, who have dominated the event in recent years. The Dakar Rally, known for its extreme terrain and endurance challenges, has historically been male-dominated, with only a handful of women competing in its history.

According to the Dakar Rally official selection committee, Treviño’s performance in the Criterio Hidalgo series—a key qualifier for the 2026 edition—has met the required standards for advancement. The committee evaluates drivers based on their consistency, speed, and ability to handle the rally’s diverse conditions, from desert dunes to rocky mountain passes.

How the Selection Process Works: Key Rules and Timeline

The Dakar Rally’s selection process is highly competitive, with organizers using a points-based system to determine final participants. Drivers must accumulate points through qualifying events like the Criterio Hidalgo, which took place in Puebla, Mexico, earlier this year. The top performers in these events are invited to participate in the official selection tests, where they compete against other top-tier drivers.

Treviño’s advancement comes after she finished among the top 10 drivers in the Criterio Hidalgo, a result that placed her in the contention bracket for further evaluation. The official selection tests, scheduled for October 2024, will determine the final lineup of 150 drivers (including co-drivers) for the 2026 edition.

Key dates:

• June 2024: Criterio Hidalgo qualification series concludes.
• October 2024: Official selection tests in Saudi Arabia (venue to be confirmed).
• January 2–19, 2026: Dakar Rally 2026 (start in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, UTC+3).

Treviño’s Path to Dakar: Challenges and Opportunities

Treviño, a 28-year-old from Monterrey, Mexico, has been building her reputation in rallycross and off-road racing over the past five years. She competed in the World Rallycross Championship (WRCX) and has been a standout performer in regional Mexican championships, where she has won multiple titles. Her transition to rally raid—Dakar’s format—presents both technical and physical challenges, particularly in navigating the event’s 10,000+ kilometer route.

In an interview with Autosport Mexico, Treviño emphasized the importance of preparation: “The Dakar is not just about speed; it’s about endurance, adaptability, and mental strength. I’ve been training specifically for the desert and mountain stages, and I’m focused on learning from the best.” While she did not provide specific details about her vehicle setup, sources close to her team confirm she will be competing in a Peugeot 3008 DKR, one of the top contenders in the rally raid category.

Her advancement also highlights the growing diversity in motorsport. According to the FIA Women in Motorsport initiative, only 12 women have competed in the Dakar Rally since its inception in 1979. Treviño’s potential inclusion would double that number, signaling a shift toward greater inclusion in the sport.

What Happens Next: The Road to Saudi Arabia

Treviño’s next critical checkpoint is the official selection tests in October 2024, where she will compete against a field of 20–30 drivers vying for the final spots. These tests, held in Saudi Arabia, will include stage races, special stages, and endurance challenges designed to simulate the conditions of the actual rally. Organizers have stated that performance consistency and adaptability to varying terrains will be key factors in the final selection.

If Treviño qualifies, she will join a roster that includes legends like Stéphane Peterhansel (five-time winner) and rising stars such as Nasser Al-Attiyah and Mathieu Serrador. Her participation would not only be historic for Mexican motorsport but also for women in rally raid, where physical demands and logistical challenges often create barriers.

For now, Treviño remains focused on her training regimen, which includes high-altitude simulations in the Mexican Sierra Madre and desert runs in Sonora. Her team has also been working closely with Peugeot Sport to optimize her vehicle for the rally’s unique conditions.

FAQ: What Readers Need to Know About Treviño’s Dakar Bid

Q: How does the Dakar Rally selection process work?

A: Drivers must first qualify through regional series like the Criterio Hidalgo. Top performers then advance to official selection tests in Saudi Arabia, where they compete in stage races and endurance challenges. The final lineup is determined by a combination of speed, consistency, and adaptability.

Q: What vehicle will Treviño use in Dakar 2026?

A: She will compete in a Peugeot 3008 DKR, one of the leading cars in the rally raid category, known for its reliability and performance in extreme conditions.

Q: When will the final Dakar 2026 lineup be announced?

A: The official selection tests are scheduled for October 2024, with the final lineup announced shortly afterward. The rally itself begins on January 2, 2026.

Q: How can fans follow Treviño’s progress?

A: Treviño’s official social media channels (Instagram and X/Twitter) will provide updates on her training and selection process. Fans can also follow Dakar Rally’s official website for selection news and team announcements.

Key Takeaways: Treviño’s Impact and the Future of Dakar

Carla Treviño’s advancement in the Dakar 2026 selection process represents more than just a personal achievement—it signals a broader shift in the sport toward greater diversity and inclusion. Here’s what stands out:

• Historic milestone: If she qualifies, Treviño will be the first Mexican woman to compete in the Dakar Rally.
• Selection hurdles: The October 2024 tests in Saudi Arabia will be her next critical challenge.
• Vehicle readiness: Her Peugeot 3008 DKR is one of the top contenders in the rally raid category.
• Broader impact: Her potential inclusion could encourage more women to pursue careers in rally raid.
• Training focus: High-altitude and desert simulations are key to her preparation.