Dakar Rally champion calls off attempt to set new world record
Sam Sunderland has abandoned his attempt to set a world record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe on a motorcycle
Sam Sunderland, a two-time Dakar Rally champion from Poole, has abandoned his attempt to set a world record for the fastest circumnavigation of the globe on a motorcycle.
The challenge, which began in Greenwich, London, on 5th September, required Sunderland to ride over 18,000 miles across five continents in just 19 days.
However, the attempt was thwarted when his Triumph Tiger 1200 sustained damage in the Australian outback, causing delays that made the record unattainable.
Sunderland expressed his disappointment, saying: "Of course I'm disappointed. But I'm also proud of what we achieved, the places we reached and the adventure we've had over the last few weeks."
The planned route included Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, North America, and North Africa, requiring Sunderland to average 1,050 miles per day on the same bike. The clock was paused during transportation between continents.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Sunderland shared his feelings after ending the attempt: "Anyone who knows me knows I don’t give up easily, and this definitely wasn’t a decision I took lightly. But sometimes you’ve got to accept what’s in front of you."
Despite the setback, Sunderland thanked his crew, partners, and supporters, stating that the journey had been meaningful despite not achieving the desired ending.
Sunderland is now heading home, concluding an extraordinary adventure that captured the attention of many.