Sam Sunderland ends motorcycle world record attempt

Two-time Dakar Rally champion Sam Sunderland has abandoned his attempt to set a new record for the fastest motorcycle circumnavigation of the globe. The Red Bull-backed challenge was halted after his Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer sustained mechanical damage in a remote area of the Australian Outback.

Sunderland was attempting to beat a record of 19 days, 8 hours, and 25 minutes, which has been held since 2002 by British riders Kevin and Julia Sanders. The mission required traveling approximately 29,000 kilometers across five continents in a single direction, touching two antipodal points on Earth.

In a video statement from Adelaide, Sunderland explained that while he attempted a quick repair in the field, the time lost due to the remote location and the necessity of proper testing meant the record was no longer mathematically achievable. He expressed gratitude to his crew and partners despite the unsuccessful bid.