The 2025 Dakar Rally is gearing up for what promises to be another thrilling chapter as competitors prepare to tackle one of motorsport's most grueling challenges. Taking place across the vast and varied landscapes of Saudi Arabia, the event will formally kick off with the prologue stage on January 6, 2025. Among the star-studded lineup is Spanish motorsport legend Carlos Sainz, who has ambitions to break historical records within the rally.
At 62 years old, Sainz is not only aiming to capture his fifth Dakar title but also hopes to achieve this milestone with five different manufacturers, cementing his status as one of the most versatile drivers in rally history. After securing his fourth title last year behind the wheel of a hybrid Audi, the seasoned driver will be piloting the new Ford Raptor for the 2025 race. He states, "The victory last Dakar was historic... but it's in the past, and now I'm concentrating on the next edition," according to RACER.
The Dakar Rally, originally born from the Paris-Dakar route, has evolved significantly since its inception, moving locations due to security concerns, and now serves as the FIA World Rally Raid Championship’s centerpiece. Sainz, having debuted at the rally back in 2006, has witnessed the evolution of the event firsthand. He reflects on the challenge of racing with a new car: "I am happy with the development of the car. Everything has been pretty well on track... I think we are as well prepared as possible,” he said during his sponsorship event with Red Bull.
The challenges of the Dakar require not only speed but also exemplary navigation skills and strategic thinking. The first week is expected to be particularly decisive, where many favorites may fall by the wayside. “I hope to be fighting for the victory... I anticipate it will be important to get it right early on," Sainz explained, emphasizing the pressure each driver faces during the initial stages.
On the opposite side of the competition is the five-time champion Nasser Al Attiyah, who will compete with the Dacia Sandrider. His experience and strategic acumen will be put to the test, especially with the introduction of several tactical changes this year, including separate routes for motorcycles and cars in five of the twelve stages. Al Attiyah commented, "The target is victory... with a tough route, we have to be clever, avoid taking unnecessary risks, and stay concentrated.”
While Sainz and Al Attiyah are battling it out as seasoned veterans, young competitors like José Ignacio Cornejo are also making headlines. Cornejo, ready for his tenth Dakar participation, transitions to Hero MotoSports after six seasons with Monster Energy Honda. Echoing Sainz’s sentiments, he is focused on adapting and pushing for improvements on his previous best result—a fourth-place finish achieved during the 2020 rally. Cornejo remarked, “It will also be my tenth participation, and I will become a legend at 30 years old,” reflecting on his personal growth and excitement about the upcoming race.
The diverse competition also highlights other notable drivers, including Sebastien Loeb, who, with his experience and tactical insights, aims to seize the opportunity presented by the new rules. "The new rules allow anyone to potentially win. It's different but hopefully it will be interesting," he stated confidently about the changes. Such modifications are anticipated to add layers of strategy and unpredictability to the event.
The Monster Energy Honda HRC team is another strong contender and has expressed their readiness as they acclimatized to their surroundings since arriving at Jeddah over Christmas. Team members Ricky Brabec and Skyler Howes, along with their European counterparts, have engaged in several shakedown tests, ensuring their bikes are race-ready. Earlier preparation is seen as key to their performance, especially with the rally now edging closer.
Strategically, competitors will be focused on the infamous 48-hour marathon stage, which looms large early on. Sainz has suggested, “It’s fundamental to get through it... the first day might see some strange tactics,” shedding light on the uncertainty and strategic shifts likely to occur. The dread of the unknown is ever-present as racers will face unforeseen challenges and the rough environment.
The spirit of the Dakar Rally is encapsulated not only by its extreme challenges but also by the camaraderie and competitive spirit shared among drivers. With the countdown continuing and tensions rising, winners might be decided not just by speed but also by their capacity to think strategically under pressure. Those venturing out onto the unforgiving terrains will need resilience, adaptability, and perhaps even luck to navigate the unique twists and turns of the Dakar Rally.
Rally fans worldwide await what will certainly be another remarkable adventure as the 2025 Dakar Rally prepares to begin. The stage is set for hope, rivalry, and tales of perseverance.