The 2026 Dakar Rally was successfully completed by the all-female Gazelles Racing Team, sponsored by Exol Lubricants.
Led by Marcella Kirk and Helen Tait-Wright, they were the first all-female team to complete the Dakar Classic, completing the rally in their highly modified 1988 Land Rover Defender 110, which the team nicknamed ‘Purdey’.
This was the sixth Dakar Classic with hundreds of vehicles setting off from the starting line in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia with Exol Lubricants helping to support the Gazelles Offroad Team by providing them with high-grade engine and transfer box oils, manufactured to withstand the gruelling two-week racing event.
To prepare for this year’s rally, the team competed in Morocco’s Santana trophy last year. They also finished fifth in the Rallye des Dames de Coeur, with both Kirk and Tait-Wright racing across the Burgundy region of France.
In addition, the team completed a Dakar Classic training course in Morocco a few weeks before the start of the Dakar Rally.
Steve Dunn, Sales and Marketing Director at Exol Lubricants, commented:
“Exol is delighted with the progress Gazelles Offroad Team has made, as the team crossed the finish line in the 2026 Dakar Classic.
“As proud supporters of the racing duo, we’ve seen the effort and the preparation both Marcella and Helen have put into this achievement. Exol has offered its services to help the team on their way, providing lubricants that have ensured a reliable drive throughout the event.”
The Gazelles Racing Team has been championing the Wonder Foundation throughout its Dakar Classic journey, supporting the women-led charity that is dedicated to transforming the lives of women, girls and their communities worldwide through essential education opportunities and providing inspiration.
For more about the Gazelle Offroad Team you can visit their Facebook page and for more information on Exol Lubricants, please visit: www.exol-lubricants.com.
Author Bio:
Simon Burrell is a UK-based motoring and travel journalist and editor, a member of the Guild of Motoring Writers and former saloon car racing driver.
Images courtesy of Exol Lubricants/Gazelles Racing Team
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