The Italian squad opens its 2026 campaign at the Africa Eco Race before tackling the European Tout Terrain Rally Cup.
Aprilia Tuareg Racing has announced its 2026 racing program, kicking off with the Africa Eco Race on January 25 before making its debut in the European Tout Terrain Rally Cup.
The team heads to Morocco carrying the number one plate after back-to-back Africa Eco Race victories in 2024 and 2025, part of a dominant two-year run that’s seen the Tuareg Rally win every competition it’s entered.
Jacopo Cerutti, Francesco Montanari and Marco Menichini will contest the 13-day marathon from Tangier to Dakar aboard the Tuareg Rally.
Beyond the twin Africa Eco Race crowns, the Italian team has claimed victory at Baja Aragon, the Hellas Rally Raid, the Ro Rally Marathon, and three consecutive Italian Motorally Championships. The streak has earned the bike the “Queen of Africa” moniker in recognition of its African rally raid dominance.
“Our goals are to always do our best and aim for victory in both the European Championship and the Africa Eco Race,” said Cerutti. “The level has risen significantly this year, with many strong competitors, but we always prepare to win.”
Following the Africa Eco Race’s February 7 finish in Dakar, the team will shift focus to the European Tout Terrain Rally Cup, comprising four rounds across Spain (April 12-18), Greece (May 25-31), Romania (July 10-18) and Italy (October 13-17).
The European campaign represents a natural progression after three Italian Motorally titles, with the team having already tested the waters by winning last year’s Hellas Rally Raid and Ro Rally Marathon.
“Last year we competed in two races… and won both, so our goal is to continue growing and succeeding in Europe as well,” said team principal Vittoriano Guareschi.
Montanari is eager to chase a result that’s eluded him for two seasons at the Africa Eco Race.
“I can’t wait to be back in the desert. My main goal is to achieve a result I’ve been chasing for two years,” he said. “I’m also happy we’ll be competing in the European Championship this year – these races are more in my wheelhouse compared to the Motorally.”
Menichini, the team’s newest signing, brings fresh confidence following extensive testing.
“The Tuareg Rally bikes are incredible. After the latest updates and tests, I have a great feeling with the bike,” he said.
The 2026 Africa Eco Race begins January 25 in Tangier.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
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