Packed fields and a bigger-than-ever crowd expected for 50th running of the Tatts Finke Desert Race
The 2026 Tatts Finke Desert Race is shaping as the biggest yet, with oversubscribed fields meaning many competitors sit on a waiting list for the 2026 event. Returning bike competitors had first entry access on 14 November, bike Expression of Interest entrants followed on 21 November, and general entry opened on 28 November. Each phase ran 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the day, on a strict first-in, best-dressed basis.
The bike tally sits at 878 against a 750 cap, which means 128 riders are on standby. Cars are in the same position, with 228 entries for 200 places. Both fields are therefore locked at capacity with active waitlists; any movement from here depends on withdrawals and administrative changes as race week approaches. The oversubscription on both sides reflects the huge interest in Australia’s richest off-road race in its golden anniversary.
Organisers are preparing for a lift in spectator numbers as well – at least a 25 percent increase on recent years. That’s roughly 5,000 extra people and a total of around 25,000 in and around Alice Springs across race week. The crowd will split between the precincts at the start and finish and the numerous camps lining the corridor down to Aputula, so traffic and services will run hot throughout the event.
With such strong demand, organisers say campers should plan accordingly. “With this being the 50th anniversary, people should expect long lines for amenities and services. Those planning to camp need to secure their spots early and ensure they stay at least 30 metres back from the track, as anyone closer will be moved for safety reasons. For those not camping, it is essential to book accommodation, car hire, and other logistics now to avoid disappointment. The event will be extremely busy, so early planning is critical,” spokesperson Kelsey Bradford advised.
The 2026 Tatts Finke Desert Race will run across four days from 5–8 June on the King’s Birthday long weekend, with prologue setting the order before the traditional two-day, there-and-back run from Alice Springs to Aputula and home over roughly 460 kilometres of Old Ghan service track. The course threads through red dirt, sand, spinifex and desert oaks, crossing the ancient Finke River, and remains Australia’s highest prize-purse off-road race. Alice Springs turns out in force for the event, with around 300 volunteers helping a local committee, backed by Northern Territory Major Events Company, stage the Territory’s signature motorsport weekend.
NSW rider Corey Hammond claimed the King of the Desert crown on a KTM 500 EXC-F in this year’s event, while Madison Healey took the Queen of the Desert honours aboard a 350 EXC-F.
