Countdown begins for Nedbank Desert Dash
The 2026 Nedbank Desert Dash will once again test the endurance and resilience of local and international cyclists as they tackle the iconic 401km race through the Namib Desert, widely regarded as the world’s longest single-stage mountain bike race.
The race will start in Windhoek and finish in Swakopmund within a 24-hour time limit from 11 to 12 December.
Speaking at the official launch on Monday, 19 October, Nedbank Namibia managing director Martha Murorua said what began as a bold Namibian cycling challenge had grown into one of Africa’s most recognised ultra-endurance mountain biking events.
She said the event was a powerful driver of economic growth, sports tourism and national unity.
“The Nedbank Desert Dash showcases Namibia’s diverse landscapes and sporting ambition. It places our country firmly on the international cycling map, attracting growing interest from around the world and, importantly, from across the Land of the Brave. Each year, cyclists from Africa, Europe, North America and beyond travel to experience one of the world’s most distinctive endurance challenges,” Murorua said.
One of the organisers, Leander Borg of LEMA Events, outlined the race categories, which include the solo full and half dashes, two-person teams competing in the full and half distances, and four-person teams in the full dash. Borg said preparations for the 2026 edition were well underway, with international riders expected to add to the competitive field.
Swiss cyclist Konny Looser, a 10-time participant and eight-time winner, will return to the event. German cyclist Andreas Seewald, the 2026 mountain bike world champion, will also compete for the second consecutive year. “We have also seen 235 solo riders registering to participate in this year’s event. This is a record entry in this category of the Nedbank Desert Dash,” Borg said.
He added that the half-dash continued to attract strong interest from participants.
For the second consecutive year, solo riders will start first at 14:00, followed by two-person teams at 14:30 and four-person teams at 15:00. The staggered starts are intended to prevent solo leaders from being caught by team riders or benefiting from drafting advantages involving the teams.
Deputy Mayor of Swakopmund Councillor Eugenia Salomon said the coastal town was proud to host the finish of the race, which has become one of Namibia’s most prominent sporting events.
“For over two decades, the Nedbank Desert Dash has been one of Namibia’s most iconic sporting events, and Swakopmund is truly proud to be the host town for this extraordinary race,” Salomon said.
She added that the route from Windhoek through the Namib Desert to Swakopmund tested riders’ endurance while showcasing Namibia’s natural beauty.
“Beyond the sporting achievement, the race promotes tourism, supports local businesses, creates economic opportunities and positions Namibia as a world-class adventure tourism destination,” she said.
Nedbank Namibia remains the headline sponsor, with Indongo Toyota, Hollard, Paratus, SuperSpar Maerua and The Grove Mall supporting the event as co-sponsors.
