Dakar 2025: Hero MotoSports Shines, Key Updates & Indian Riders’ Performances

Hero MotoSports’ Ross Branch and Jose ‘Nacho’ Cornejo have shown impressive results during the first half of Dakar 2025, with Branch holding on to third place overall. Indian riders Jatin Jain and Sanjay Takale are also making strides, while Ashish Raorane has withdrawn due to injuries sustained in Stage 3. Below, we’ll explore the standings, prices, specifications, and details about their performances in an easy-to-read format.

Performance Highlights

Hero MotoSports’ Vehicle Specifications

Segment Prices

Top Performers Analysis

Ross Branch (Hero MotoSports)

• Position: 3rd overall in Bikes.
• Strengths: Consistency and recovery from navigation errors in Stage 4.
• Challenges: Minor time losses due to errors but compensated well in subsequent stages.

Jose ‘Nacho’ Cornejo

• Position: 9th overall in Bikes.
• Strengths: Technical expertise in challenging terrains (rocky and sandy stages).
• Quote: “I’m motivated to make up ground in the second week.”

Jatin Jain

• Position: 99th overall in Bikes.
• Strengths: Consistent finishes despite marathon stage challenges.

Sanjay Takale

• Position: 23rd in Dakar Classic.
• Vehicle: Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ 78.
• Strengths: Strategic driving and a significant 7th place finish in Stage 3.

Ashish Raorane

• Position: Withdrawn from Bikes category.
• Reason: Multiple crashes in Stage 3, leading to upper body injuries.
• Quote: “This was the toughest decision I’ve ever made.”

FAQs about Dakar 2025

1. What is Dakar Rally?
   • A long-distance off-road race held annually, known for its challenging terrains.
2. What is a marathon stage in Dakar?
   • A stage where competitors can’t receive outside assistance for repairs or refueling.
3. Who is Ross Branch?
   • A rider from Hero MotoSports, currently 3rd overall in Dakar 2025.
4. What happened to Ashish Raorane?
   • He withdrew due to injuries after crashes in Stage 3.
5. What is Dakar Classic?
   • A regularity rally format where older vehicles compete on time-speed-distance parameters.
6. Who is leading the Bikes category?
   • The leading position is currently not held by Hero MotoSports but by other competitors.
7. What is the length of Stage 6?
   • Stage 6 is 605 km long.
8. How does Hero MotoSports perform consistently?
   • Through advanced bikes, skilled riders, and strategic race planning.
9. What vehicle does Sanjay Takale drive?
   • A Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ 78.
10. Why did Jatin Jain’s ranking improve?
    • Consistent performance in marathon stages.
11. How is navigation handled in Dakar?
    • Using digital roadbooks and GPS equipment.
12. What terrains are covered in Dakar?
    • Rocky, sandy, and muddy terrains.
13. When does the second half of Dakar 2025 begin?
    • On January 11, 2025.
14. What is the average cost of participating in Dakar?
    • Approximately INR 40-50 lakh, depending on vehicle and support.
15. What motivates participants in Dakar?
    • The challenge, adventure, and pursuit of rally dreams.