The start list for the 50th running of the Tatts Finke Desert Race is rapidly taking shape, with major international manufacturers, returning winners and factory-backed teams confirmed for the historic edition of Australia’s biggest off-road race this June.
The biggest headline is the arrival of Ducati, which will make its Tatts Finke Desert Race debut in 2026 through Joe Rascal Racing. Former Finke runner-up Callum Norton will spearhead the effort aboard Ducati’s new Desmo450 MX, marking the first time in the manufacturer’s history that one of its motocross bikes will contest the iconic desert race.
Honda also returns with a stacked lineup backed by Peter Kittle Motor Company. Reigning King of the Desert Corey Hammond will chase back-to-back outright victories, joined by 2025 podium finisher Brodie Waters and five-time King of the Desert David Walsh, who is coming out of retirement in a major boost for the manufacturer.
Walsh’s switch to Honda is one of the biggest rider moves heading into the event after claiming his five consecutive Finke victories with KTM.
“I’d love to be the rider who gives Honda its first Finke victory since 2013,” Walsh said.
“What has impressed me the most is their approach, there’s no ego. I told them what we needed, and they were immediately on board. With the people around this program, it’s clear the goal is to win.”
KTM will still field a serious challenge as the manufacturer attempts to extend its winning streak to eight straight Finke victories. Liam Walsh will lead the KTM effort after missing last year’s race through injury, alongside 2025 fifth-place finisher Kodi Stephens.
Portuguese manufacturer AJP Motorcycles will also expand its presence after debuting at Finke last year. Veteran rider Warren Strange will race the PR7, while Alexandra Long returns to competition after the birth of her first child aboard the SPR310r. Rookie Mitchell Thorneycroft will complete the lineup on the SPR510r.
“It’s a special occasion to be part of the 50th Finke and to race for AJP Motorcycling Australia on the best adventure bike,” Strange said.
“This will be a mammoth effort from the whole team but we’re collectively excited to achieve something new together.”
Long added: “To race for a 40-year-old international brand is a memorable moment for any rider, but to be part of an early milestone in their Finke journey, on their most stable enduro bike, makes this even more significant.”
In the car category, seven-time Bathurst 1000 winner Craig Lowndes has already been announced as an entrant, set to compete in a Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 with Supercheap Auto Racing.
Finke Desert Race organisers say interest in the 50th edition is already at unprecedented levels, with accommodation in Alice Springs selling rapidly as teams, competitors and fans prepare for the King’s Birthday long weekend event.
Finke Desert Race President Antony Yoffa said the quality of the field was helping drive huge interest in the anniversary event.
“We’re seeing interest in the Tatts Finke Desert Race like never before, fuelled by strong competition and an eagerness to win the 50th edition of the event,” Yoffa said.
“Having five-time King of the Desert David Walsh end his brief retirement and other manufacturers signing some of the best off-road racers means we’re going to be treated to an epic race between Alice Springs and Aputula.”
The 50th Tatts Finke Desert Race will run from June 5–8, 2026, covering the iconic 450km return route between Alice Springs and Aputula. Entries remain open until May 22.
