Indonesian Rider Returns to Dakar, Julian Johan Ready to Tackle World's Toughest Rally
Source: Antara/Handout/Julian Johan
After a 14-year absence, Indonesia once again has a representative in one of the world's most brutal and legendary Motorsport events. Indonesian racer Julian Johan is confirmed to compete in the Rally Dakar 2026, the world's most extreme cross-desert rally.
Jeje, as Julian Johan is familiarly known, has arrived in Saudi Arabia to participate in the Rally Dakar 2026 scheduled for January 3-17, 2026. He will be paired with French co-driver Mathieu Monplaisi.
Jeje becomes Indonesia's successor in Dakar following Kasih Anggoro's last appearance in the 2011 edition. Previously, Indonesia was also represented by Tinton Soeprapto in the 1988 Dakar.
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For Jeje, Dakar isn't just a race but a journey filled with personal and historical significance.
"They are among those who gave me extra motivation to continue their struggle in the Rally Dakar. But one interesting thing is that Dakar requires not only huge funding but also tremendous courage and boldness," said Jeje.
He emphasized that this rally demands more than just financial and technical readiness.
With such long and challenging terrain, finances alone aren't enough.
Rally Dakar 2026 marks Jeje's debut in this event. Though he has long followed Dakar as a spectator and observer, he admits participating directly presents different challenges.
"Everything feels new, from the car and weather to sand driving techniques. My main preparation focus is mastering off-road driving techniques on sandy terrain," he said.
Jeje will drive the Toyota Land Cruiser 100, a legendary vehicle that helped the Japanese Toyota team win the Dakar championship in the early 2000s.
His experience driving this vehicle and training sessions in Morocco provide crucial adaptation foundations.
Regarding targets, Jeje chooses realism: completing each day with the vehicle intact, minimal damage, and the entire team in good condition.
Beyond physical and vehicle preparation, Jeje also equips himself with survival gear, medical equipment, and vehicle rescue/recovery knowledge from his experience in the 2023 and 2024 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR). (ANTARA)
