Honda Racing Corporation has picked up backing from Monster Energy for the official Honda HRC Rally Team. As HRC unveiled its teams set to compete in the various motorcycle disciplines of MotoGP, MXGP, Trial and Rally, the biggest news was the announcement of Monster Energy as the Rally team’s leading backer.

The team is Joan Barreda, Paulo Gonçalves, Michael Metge, Ricky Brabec and Kevin Benavides.

“The Dakar is the ultimate challenge for every off-road enthusiast. It’s much more than a race, it’s a pure human adventure and teaming up with Factory Honda could not have been a better partner,” said Mitch Covington, vice president of sports marketing, Monster Energy.

Tetsuhiro Kuwata, Honda Racing Corporation Director and General Manager, said: “We’re really proud to start this collaboration with Monster Energy for the Dakar Project. This partnership will help and strengthen the team in its goal: to conquer the Dakar Rally.”