Schareina Claims Podium Spot in Intense Dakar Finish
Spanish motorcycle racer and Andorran resident, Tosha Schareina, has achieved a significant milestone in his career, securing third place overall in the motorcycle category of the 2026 Dakar Rally. Riding for Monster Energy Honda HRC, Schareina's consistent performance and three stage victories contributed to his strong finish in the grueling rally raid, which concluded on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.
The 2026 Dakar Rally was marked by one of the closest finishes in the event's history, with Luciano Benavides of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing ultimately claiming victory by a mere two seconds over Ricky Brabec of Monster Energy Honda HRC. Schareina's final overall time was 25 minutes and 12 seconds behind the winner, placing him firmly on the podium.
A Season of Strong Performances
Schareina's journey to the podium was highlighted by several impressive stage wins throughout the 13-stage, 8,000-kilometer race across Saudi Arabia. He notably secured victories in Stage 4, which temporarily propelled him into the overall lead, and Stage 9, where he capitalized on navigational challenges faced by competitors. His ability to navigate complex terrains and maintain high speeds underscored his prowess in rally raid racing. The Monster Energy Honda HRC team demonstrated strong collective performance, with Ricky Brabec finishing second and Skyler Howes in fourth, placing two Honda riders on the overall podium.
Career Trajectory and Future Outlook
Born in Valencia, Spain, Tosha Schareina Marzal has rapidly ascended through the ranks of motorcycle rally racing. His third-place finish in the 2026 Dakar Rally follows a remarkable second-place achievement in the 2025 edition, solidifying his position as a top contender in the sport. Schareina's consistent presence at the forefront of the Dakar Rally, combined with his multiple stage wins, indicates a promising future in the demanding discipline. His dedication and skill, particularly in navigating the challenging conditions of the Dakar, have made him a prominent figure for both Spanish and Andorran motorsport enthusiasts.
6 Comments
Michelangelo
While Schareina's consistency and podium finish are commendable, it's worth noting the incredibly tight margins at the top, with only seconds separating first and second. This highlights the fierce competition he's up against.
BuggaBoom
So proud to see Spanish and Andorran talent shine on the world stage!
Noir Black
Consistency is key in Dakar, and he nailed it. Well deserved podium!
Africa
Another year, another Dakar. The environmental impact of these races is just too much.
Bermudez
Achieving third place after a second-place finish last year clearly establishes him as a top contender, which is excellent. However, the 'promising future' needs to translate into an actual win soon to truly solidify his legacy among the Dakar greats.
Donatello
It's fantastic to see a rider from Spain and Andorra doing so well, bringing pride to both nations. However, the article focuses heavily on Schareina, perhaps not giving enough credit to the entire Monster Energy Honda HRC team's collective performance.