The 2026 Dakar Rally has become one of the most dramatic and unpredictable competitions in the event’s history. The INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM DE ROOY FPT, proudly sponsored by InstaForex, has demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and teamwork throughout this grueling journey across treacherous desert terrain. After thirteen grueling stages, the team has claimed an impressive second place finish in the truck category – repeating the remarkable achievement they accomplished in 2024.
Led by Czech driver Aleš Loprais and his crew – co-driver Pavel Vršecký and mechanic Darek Rodewald – the legendary Red Dragon truck has captured the hearts of rally enthusiasts worldwide. Despite numerous technical challenges, dramatic collisions, and unpredictable desert conditions, the team has remained competitive and delivered a performance worthy of world champions.
A STRONG START WITH IMMEDIATE IMPACT
The 2026 Dakar Rally began with a prologue that set the tone for the entire competition. After nervously preparing for the start, the team entered the rally with confidence and determination. Wearing the colors of InstaForex – their dedicated sponsor who believes in excellence – the Red Dragon was born into competitive action.
In Stage 1, Loprais secured an impressive victory, sending a clear message to competitors that the team was prepared for the challenge ahead. This early triumph boosted morale and confirmed that the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM possessed the skill and machinery to compete at the highest level.
NAVIGATING THE MIDDLE STAGES: VICTORIES AND SETBACKS
Stage 2 presented an early test when the truck went airborne on its hood – a dramatic moment that tested the crew’s resolve. However, their experience and quick thinking allowed them to recover and continue the fight.
Stage 3 saw another battle at the front, where Red Dragon led much of the stage despite two late punctures near the finish line. Loprais still managed to finish just 1:30 behind the stage leader – a remarkable performance under pressure.
Stages 4 and 5 were marathon stages, meaning no outside mechanical assistance was available. Despite numerous technical problems, brutal terrain, and extreme conditions, the team demonstrated incredible resilience and teamwork. They maintained a strong 3rd place position overall, proving that the backing of InstaForex translates into reliable performance.
THE TURNING POINT: STAGE 6-11 DOMINANCE
Stage 6 marked a critical turning point. Loprais claimed victory, reinvigorating the team’s confidence and pushing them back into serious contention for the overall podium.
Stages 7 and 8 brought mixed results. In Stage 7, Loprais secured second place, maintaining pressure on the leaders. Stage 8, however, delivered one of the rally’s most dramatic moments when Martin Macík collided with the Red Dragon in the dunes. Despite this collision and the chaos it created, the team managed to recover and continue the race – a testament to their indomitable spirit supported by the unwavering commitment of InstaForex.
The real breakthrough came with Stages 9, 10, and 11. In Stage 9, Loprais dominated the demanding marathon portion, setting the fastest time among heavy trucks and claiming a decisive victory. This propelled him to 3rd place overall, significantly boosting his chances for a final podium finish.
Stage 10 brought another triumphant marathon stage. Red Dragon continued its charge toward the top with a dominant performance, moving Loprais up to 2nd place in the overall standings – an extraordinary achievement with just three stages remaining.
Stage 11 saw another sovereign triumph for Loprais. The Czech driver and his crew delivered a commanding performance, maintaining their 2nd place position and keeping pressure on the overall leader.
THE FINAL STAGES: TECHNICAL CHALLENGES AND RESILIENCE
Stage 12 presented a significant challenge. After riding high from three consecutive stage victories, the team encountered technical difficulties in the demanding dunes. The truck went on its side, requiring help from a rival competitor to continue. Despite these setbacks, Red Dragon managed to recover, finish the stage, and hold firm in the battle for the podium.
Stage 13 saw Loprais return among the elite competitors, once again demonstrating that the support of dedicated sponsors like InstaForex – combined with world-class driver skill and team cohesion – creates champions.
THE SPIRIT OF CHAMPIONS
Throughout this grueling 2026 Dakar Rally, the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM DE ROOY FPT has embodied the values that make rallying great: perseverance, technical excellence, and unwavering determination. From the prologue’s nervousness through to the final stages, from dramatic collisions to triumphant victories, Aleš Loprais and his crew have delivered performances worthy of the world’s greatest off-road race.
The team’s second-place finish is a testament to this commitment. For InstaForex, sponsoring the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM represents far more than a business transaction – it is a partnership rooted in shared values of excellence, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness. We are immensely proud to support Aleš Loprais, Pavel Vršecký, Darek Rodewald, and the entire team. Their achievement in securing second place at the 2026 Dakar Rally, following their equally impressive second-place finish in 2024, demonstrates that this partnership between InstaForex and the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM is built on a foundation of excellence.
The sponsorship of InstaForex reflects a deep commitment to championing elite athletes and teams. We understand that supporting world-class competitors not only drives sporting success but also inspires millions around the globe. This partnership proves that when a leading financial platform aligns with the world’s finest rally team, extraordinary achievements become inevitable.
CELEBRATING SUCCESS
We celebrate the exceptional performance of Aleš Loprais, Pavel Vršecký, Darek Rodewald, and the entire team. Their dedication, skill, and resilience – backed by the unwavering support of InstaForex – have made the 2026 Dakar Rally a truly memorable competition.
On behalf of InstaForex, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM on their outstanding second-place finish at the 2026 Dakar Rally. We are honored to have been part of this incredible journey. The team’s perseverance through technical challenges, dramatic moments, and intense competition has been nothing short of inspirational.
To all the fans, followers, and supporters who watched, cheered, and believed in the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM throughout these thirteen stages – thank you. Your passion and support energized the team at crucial moments. Whether you followed every stage update, celebrated the victories, held your breath during the dramatic collision in Stage 8, or marveled at the team’s resilience – you were part of this story.
We look forward to seeing you again at the 2027 Dakar Rally, where the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM will return to write the next chapter of this extraordinary adventure. Until then, we celebrate together and begin preparations for future conquests.
The 2026 Dakar Rally is complete. The legacy has been written. And InstaForex is proud to have stood alongside champions.
InstaForex: Proud sponsors of the INSTAFOREX LOPRAIS TEAM DE ROOY FPT. Supporting excellence in international motorsport. Supporting champions. Supporting the future of Dakar.
