RIYADH — Overdrive Racing's Yazeed Al-Rajhi, alongside co-driver Timo Gottschalk, claimed a historic first victory at the Dakar Rally 2025, becoming the first Saudi driver to win the prestigious event. The duo expertly navigated the final 61km stage through Saudi Arabia's Empty Quarter, sealing a dramatic and closely contested triumph. Al-Rajhi, driving a Toyota Hilux, overcame strong competition from Toyota Gazoo Racing's Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings. Despite Lategan's impressive lead throughout much of the rally, Al-Rajhi's strategic approach, flawless driving, and mastery of the dunes propelled him to victory with a margin of just 3 minutes and 57 seconds—the second-closest finish in Dakar history. "We have made history for Saudi Arabia," said a jubilant Al-Rajhi. "I am very proud to be the first Saudi to win the Dakar. It's an incredible moment for me, my team, and my country." Throughout the grueling 14-day marathon, Al-Rajhi and Gottschalk demonstrated tactical precision, staying within reach of the leaders without taking unnecessary risks. Their strategy paid off on stage 10 when they deliberately relinquished the lead, only to regain it decisively on the penultimate stage. The victory also highlighted the resilience of their Overdrive Racing team, a private outfit that managed to outshine factory-backed competitors like Toyota Gazoo Racing, Dacia Sandriders, and M-Sport Ford Performance. Henk Lategan, who missed the 2024 Dakar due to a broken shoulder, showcased determination and skill, emerging as a serious contender. However, his relative inexperience in the dunes proved decisive, allowing Al-Rajhi to capitalize in the latter stages. "It's been an unbelievable race," Lategan said. "Finishing second by such a close margin stings, but Yazeed drove an amazing rally. We'll come back stronger." This year's edition was one of the most exciting in Dakar history, featuring fierce competition among top teams and drivers. Factory efforts from Dacia Sandriders and M-Sport Ford Performance challenged the dominance of Toyota, with a reinvigorated Mini JCW team adding to the drama. The rally also saw early exits from notable contenders, including Carlos Sainz, who crashed out on day two, and Sébastien Loeb, who suffered a high-speed roll on the third stage. Despite the setbacks, emerging talents like Mattias Ekström and Mitch Guthrie Jr delivered standout performances.
