Dakar 2026 tough on South African participants
The 2026 Dakar Rally delivered one of the most thrilling and competitive editions of the world’s toughest off‑road endurance race.
- Industry News
- 19 January 2026
TopGear South Africa launches its first-of-a-kind test track, which is straight out of the BBC TopGear handbook. The test track is located on the Brakpan/Benoni Airfield.
The 3.5-kilometer track is a first for TopGear South Africa for being outside the UK and which in true TopGear fashion will feature a number of challenging tests.
It is aimed at testing high speeds, cornering capabilities and the braking of performance cars. TopGear South Africa will also bring the Reasonably Priced Car segment, which the TopGear audience is familiar with. This segment will see South African celebrities attempt an on-screen fast timed lap around the track.
Also announced at the launch was the establishment of the TopGear Awards revealing the best cars in various categories. Secondly, the TopGear Speed Week 2023, which will take place at the end of October. Speed Week is a large performance feature to find the best performance car in South Africa.

Lerato Matebese, Publishing Editor at Clipping Point Publishing, comments: “A long time coming, finally launching the TopGear SA test track, is another feather in the cap of our continuous growth strategy.
“The facility allows us to put each car through the same, rigorous test to see how they would perform bone-stock from the dealer floor. While this will be great for car debates at the braai or carwash, it also puts into perspective each car’s performance credentials in a controlled environment.”
The 2026 Dakar Rally delivered one of the most thrilling and competitive editions of the world’s toughest off‑road endurance race.
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