Competitors will be able to secure their place for the 50th Tatts Finke Desert Race in 2026 earlier than usual, with event entries opening next month.
The entry process opens across four phases, beginning Friday 14 November 2025, with each phase targeting specific competitor groups.
“Due to the overwhelming demand we’ve seen through the Expressions of Interest process, the committee has worked with both Motorcycling Australia and Motorsport Australia to accommodate increased competitors across both bikes and cars divisions,” said Finke Desert Race President Antony Yoffa.
“2026 will see a maximum of 750 entries in the bike (moto) field and 200 available in the cars (auto) field. We encourage competitors to get their entries in early.”
ENTRY PHASES
Phase 1: Friday 14 November – 2025 Bike Competitors
Phase 2: Friday 21 November – Bike Expressions of Interest Holders
Phase 3: Wednesday 26 November – Car Expressions of Interest Holders
Phase 4: Friday 28 November – General Entries Open
Entry phases 1–3 operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (ACST) on their designated dates. Eligible competitors will receive entry links and login credentials via email prior to their phase opening.
Entries are accepted on a first-in, best-dressed basis. Once field capacity is reached, entries will automatically move to waitlists. EOI applicants who paid a $100 deposit will have that discounted from their entry fee.
Important: Entries are non-transferable and entry links are entrant-specific. Competitors must ensure their email contact details are current and accurate to receive entry information.
50 YEARS OF FINKE
The 2026 event marks 50 years since the first ‘There and Back’ race in 1976, when 56 competitors took on the challenge. This anniversary event will celebrate the thousands of competitors, volunteers, and supporters who have been part of the race’s rich history.
“This is a significant milestone for the event,” said Mr Yoffa. “The 50th Anniversary Finke will be our biggest yet.”
The two-day event covers 446 kilometres, following the historic Old Ghan Railway route from Alice Springs to the Aboriginal community of Aputula and back, crossing the Finke River and challenging competitors with washouts, creek crossings, corrugations, and whoops.
For full entry instructions and event information, visit finkedesertrace.com.au.
About the Tatts Finke Desert Race
First held in 1976 with 56 motorcycle competitors, the Tatts Finke Desert Race has grown to become Australia’s premier off-road motorsport event, attracting hundreds of competitors across bikes, buggies, trophy trucks and side-by-sides, and thousands of spectators annually to Alice Springs for the 450-kilometre return journey through some of the country’s most challenging desert terrain.
