High-speed desert racing faces a massive safety controversy after Australian off-road star Toby Price and navigator Brent Bauman were officially disqualified from the 2026 SCORE International San Felipe 250 in Mexico. The SCORE Competition Review Board scratched Team Australia’s Trophy Truck #46 from the final results over allegations of intentional course sabotage. Luke McMillin was subsequently confirmed as the outright winner of the event.
Price had physically crossed the finish line eighth in his class and 17th outright after qualifying 31st. The disqualification stems from images and footage alleging the duo deliberately stacked rocks near Race Mile 52 during a Friday pre-run.
Trophy Trucks travel at extreme speeds. Unexpected terrain alterations create life-threatening hazards for trailing competitors.
Price vehemently denied the accusations. He claimed the footage actually showed him clearing a new line and checking on a bystander, according to a detailed report released on Monday. He stated he will treat the ruling as final.
He announced an immediate hiatus from off-road desert racing. He called the ordeal the toughest period of his 20-year career.
The internal fallout was swift. Navigator Brent Bauman officially resigned from Team Australia on Tuesday morning. Team owner Paul Weel accepted the resignation immediately following preliminary findings from his own internal investigation. Weel publicly distanced the organization from the alleged actions. He emphasized that competitor safety is paramount and stated he does not condone the conduct.
Team Australia was built as a massive financial investment to tackle North American off-road sports. The operation now faces a fractured roster.