Kevin Benavides announces retirement
Two-time Dakar Rally champion Kevin Benavides has announced his retirement from professional motorcycle racing, concluding a distinguished career in the sport. His decision also marks the end of a five-year partnership with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing.
Benavides joined Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in 2021, fresh from securing his first Dakar title earlier that year. He further cemented his legacy with a second Dakar victory in 2023, competing aboard the KTM 450 RALLY. In what became his final Dakar appearance in 2025, Benavides raced alongside his brother Luciano, fulfilling a long-held ambition to compete together on the same factory team.
KTM has acknowledged Benavides’ contributions, expressing gratitude for his professionalism, dedication, and passion during his five years with the team. The manufacturer noted his integral role within their rally team and affirmed his lasting position as a valued member of the KTM family.
In a statement, Kevin Benavides reflected on his decision: “Today is not an easy day, but it’s definitely a special one. After so many years of racing – riding motorcycles since I was three, crossing the toughest terrains on Earth, experiencing victories, crashes, and life-changing lessons – I’ve made one of the hardest decisions of my life: to bring my professional motorcycle racing career to an end. Saying goodbye to the bike feels like letting go of a part of myself, but I do so with pride.”
He continued, sharing his personal journey: “From Salta, Argentina, to the world, becoming a factory rider, winning the Dakar twice, and making history in rally and Argentine sport – these were dreams that once seemed impossible. This isn’t how I imagined retiring, but my injury prevents me from competing at 100 percent, and I’ve always raced with everything I had. Still, I’m deeply grateful for all I’ve achieved.”
Benavides also extended his appreciation to KTM: “I want to thank my family, my team, the fans, and especially KTM – for believing in me and standing by me through everything. I hope to stay close to the KTM family, support my brother Luciano, and keep contributing to the sport in new ways. Dakar taught me that there are no limits when you love what you do and stay humble. Thank you all for being part of this journey.”
Benavides’ retirement concludes a chapter defined by significant achievements in rally-raid competition.
