Sam Sunderland to attempt motorcycle world record circumnavigation

Two-time Dakar Rally champion Sam Sunderland will attempt to set a new world record for the fastest motorcycle circumnavigation of the globe. Starting from London on September 5, the 37-year-old British rider aims to cover more than 29,000 kilometers in under 19 days, seeking to surpass the previous record of 19 days, eight hours, and 25 minutes set in 2002.

Sunderland will ride a Triumph Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer through a six-stage route spanning five continents. The journey includes travel through Turkey, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Morocco. To qualify, the attempt must be completed in a single direction, passing through two opposite points, and starting and ending in the same location on the same machine.

The expedition was originally planned for 2025 but was delayed after Sunderland suffered a spinal fracture during training. The challenge involves riding an average of 1,600 kilometers daily across public roads and deserts, facing significant obstacles such as extreme fatigue, sleep deprivation, and varying weather conditions.