Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al-Rajhi Makes History with Dakar Rally Victory
In a landmark achievement for motorsport, Saudi Arabian driver Yazeed Al-Rajhi has become the first from his nation to win the prestigious Dakar Rally. The 2025 edition of this grueling event concluded on January 17 in Shubaytah, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone for both Al-Rajhi and his home country.
A Historic Win on Home Terrain
Al-Rajhi, piloting a Toyota Hilux for the Overdrive Racing team, completed the 12-stage rally in a total time of 52 hours, 52 minutes, and 15 seconds. He edged out South African competitor Henk Lategan by a mere 3 minutes and 57 seconds, with Sweden’s Mattias Ekström finishing third, trailing by 20 minutes and 21 seconds. This victory is particularly momentous as Saudi Arabia has been the host of the Dakar Rally since 2020, and Al-Rajhi’s triumph on home soil resonates deeply with the nation’s growing motorsport community.
Emotional Reflections from the Champion
Overwhelmed with pride, Al-Rajhi expressed his joy at the finish line, stating, “We make history now, I am very happy and proud. I have put my country in a good position. People here from this land, we can win Dakar.” This victory not only elevates his personal career but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring racers in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle Eastern region.
A Journey of Perseverance and Dedication
At 43, Al-Rajhi’s path to this historic win has been marked by determination and resilience. He began his rally career in 2007, initially competing in regional events before making his World Rally Championship (WRC) debut in 2008. Despite facing challenges, including a series of retirements in the 2011 season, Al-Rajhi’s commitment never wavered. His persistence culminated in this groundbreaking victory, showcasing his growth and tenacity as a driver.
A Milestone for Saudi Motorsport
Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF), lauded Al-Rajhi’s accomplishment, emphasizing its significance for the Kingdom’s motorsport ambitions. He noted that this victory symbolizes Saudi Arabia’s dedication to fostering local talent and positioning itself as a global hub for motorsport excellence. The successful hosting of the Dakar Rally since 2020 has been a testament to the country’s commitment to this vision.
Motorcycle Category Sees Australian Victory
In the motorcycle division, Australian rider Daniel Sanders secured his first Dakar Rally title, becoming the second Australian to do so after Toby Price’s wins in 2016 and 2019. Sanders led the category from the prologue stage, ultimately finishing 8 minutes and 50 seconds ahead of Spain’s Tosha Schareina. Reflecting on his achievement, Sanders described the race as tough and expressed immense relief upon reaching the finish line, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges inherent in the Dakar Rally.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia
The 2025 Dakar Rally not only showcased individual triumphs but also reinforced Saudi Arabia’s status as a premier destination for international motorsport events. The Kingdom’s investment in world-class infrastructure and its strategic location have made it an ideal host for such challenging competitions. As the nation continues to support and develop its motorsport sector, enthusiasts and participants alike can anticipate more thrilling events and emerging local talents in the years to come.
Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s historic victory serves as a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating that with unwavering dedication and support, athletes can achieve remarkable feats on both national and international stages.
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