The inaugural Paris-Dakar Rally begins.

The Dakar Rally or simply "The Dakar", formerly known as the Paris–Dakar Rally, is an annual rally raid organised by the Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO). It is an off-road endurance event traversing terrain much tougher than conventional rallying, and the vehicles used are typically true off-road vehicles and motorcycles, rather than modified on-road vehicles. Most of the competitive special sections are off-road, crossing dunes, mud, camel grass, rocks, and erg. Stages vary from short distances up to 800–900 kilometres (500–560 mi) per day. The rough terrain, driver fatigue, and lack of skill usually results in accidents and serious injuries.

December 26 is the 360th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; five days remain until the end of the year.