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Dakar 2025: The Ultimate Test of Endurance and Survival

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
January 9, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Dakar 2025: The Ultimate Test of Endurance and Survival

The stage is set for the 47th edition of the Dakar Rally, and it promises to be the most grueling challenge in the event’s storied history. Spanning 7,700 kilometers through the rugged terrain of Saudi Arabia, with 5,100 kilometers of timed specials, this year’s rally will push competitors to their limits like never before.

Running from January 3 to January 17, the rally features 12 special stages preceded by a prologue. Organizers have dubbed this edition the “toughest yet,” with new twists, a grueling schedule, and heightened safety measures.


Early Marathon Chaos

Breaking from tradition, the brutal marathon stage kicks off early in the rally, featuring over 1,000 kilometers of timed racing split across two days with no mechanical support for participants. The infamous Empty Quarter, a barren expanse of dunes, awaits competitors in the second half of the rally, featuring another marathon stage where drivers must rely solely on their own skills for vehicle maintenance.

The route begins in Bisha and concludes in Shubaytah, with unique paths designed for bikes and cars in five of the stages, ensuring no respite for the drivers and riders.


Major Changes and Safety Innovations

For the first time, the quad category has been axed. Instead, the focus shifts to innovation and safety. All participants will now use a digital roadbook to enhance navigation accuracy. Vehicles are required to display a two-meter-high red flag atop their roofs, making it easier to locate them among the dunes and reducing the risk of accidents.


Shifting Sands in the Competitor Line-Up

The 2025 edition marks the end of an era for Dakar legends. France’s Stéphane Peterhansel, famously known as “Mr. Dakar,” will miss his first rally in 35 years, leaving behind a record of 14 victories (six on bikes, eight in cars). The absence of Audi’s electric team, which powered Carlos Sainz to victory in 2024, also reshapes the field.

Sainz, now with Ford, joins compatriots Nani Roma—returning after battling illness—and Mathias Ekstrom. Meanwhile, reigning champion Nasser Al-Attiyah has switched to Dacia, alongside French rally legend Sébastien Loeb, who is chasing his first Dakar win.

Toyota places its bets on Brazilian Lucas Moraes, American Seth Quintero—previously a standout in SSV—and Saudi local Yazeed Al-Rajhi. Australian Toby Price, a former bike champion, makes his debut in the car category. Portugal’s João Ferreira (Mini) enters the spotlight, aiming for a breakthrough in his maiden run in the premier class.


Battle of the Bikes

The competition in the two-wheel category is equally fierce. Reigning world champion Ross Branch seeks Hero’s maiden Dakar victory under the guidance of Portuguese sporting director Joaquim Rodrigues Jr. However, Honda, led by Ruben Faria, is the team to beat after two consecutive wins.

Honda’s powerhouse lineup includes Chilean Pablo Quintanilla, 2024 winner Ricky Brabec, and Skyler Howes. Meanwhile, KTM, reeling from financial woes, has enlisted Australian Daniel Sanders and Spanish prodigy Edgar Canet, just 19 years old, to mount a comeback.


High Stakes, Higher Drama

As the toughest Dakar Rally yet approaches, the stakes are sky-high for seasoned veterans and ambitious rookies alike. From the arid dunes of the Empty Quarter to the grueling marathon stages, every moment promises intense competition, unexpected challenges, and unparalleled drama.

The Dakar 2025 is more than a rally—it’s a test of resilience, skill, and the sheer will to endure. Buckle up for an unforgettable ride.

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