Red Bull KTM Factory Racing have announced Kevin Benavides will not compete in the next round of the World Rally-Raid Championship, Desafio Ruta 40, after breaking his arm in a training crash.

It seems like someone put a hex on the KTM Rally team just lately, one serious injury after another has put the factory riders out of action with their most recent Dakar rally winner Kevin Benavides suffering more than most.

The Argentine has landed in hospital again following a training incident at the Mantillo MX Park near his home in Salta, Argentina on Saturday, May 11.

KTM say the 2023 Dakar champion was taken to hospital where he was treated for a fracture to his left arm and head injuries. The accident rules Benavides out of his upcoming home race, the Desafio Ruta 40, in Argentina from June 1-7.

In a statement released today, May 14, Andreas Hölzl Rally Team Manager says: “Obviously, this is a massive setback for Kevin, made even worse by the fact it comes right before his home race in Argentina.

“Training for the upcoming Desafio Ruta 40 had been going really well, with the whole team working hard on the run up to the event. Thankfully, his injuries are not too serious and although he is still being monitored closely, he’s improving day by day.

“It’s not clear how long Kevin will be out of action for, but all at Red Bull KTM are behind him and wish to see him back with the team soon.”