The 2025 Dakar Rally will be remembered not just for its challenging terrains and exhausting stages but for a historic achievement by Yazeed Al-Rajhi. For the first time, a driver from Saudi Arabia has claimed the prestigious Touareg trophy in his homeland, marking a significant milestone both for him personally and for the landscape of Middle Eastern motorsport. This moment comes after decades of the rally being hosted in different countries, and Al-Rajhi’s victory is a testament to the evolution of motorsport in Saudi Arabia.
This year’s rally was atypical, filled with unexpected twists that saw some of rallying’s biggest names, such as Carlos Sainz Sr. and Sebastien Loeb, exiting the race early. Their departures opened the field for Al-Rajhi, who despite being a known competitor, faced pressures and uncertainties that can make or break the performance of any racer. The challenges displayed how unpredictable the Dakar Rally can be and how quickly fortunes can change in such an unforgiving event. With past experiences to learn from, Al-Rajhi managed to remain focused and capitalized on the opportunities bestowed upon him, ultimately leading to a heartfelt victory on home soil.
Al-Rajhi’s journey in motorsport began in a more local context, competing in regional rallies that honed his skills and passion for racing. His transition to international competitions in 2014 was just the beginning of a long chase, as he participated in the Dakar Rally starting from 2015. Al-Rajhi’s previous best result came in 2022 when he finished third—a notable achievement, especially in years when he did not even claim the top position in any individual stage. Yet, the grit he displayed in rising after setbacks—like the spectacular crash in 2023 that halted his bid for victory—demonstrates both his resilience and his commitment to the sport.
Outside the realm of racing, Al-Rajhi is an influential entrepreneur involved in various thriving enterprises, including banks and beverage companies. This multifaceted lifestyle keeps him busy, with commitments often taking him from the racetrack to board meetings in the blink of an eye. The blend of his business acumen and racing spirit exemplifies how modern athletes balance their passions with professional responsibilities, further enriching the narrative of what it means to be a sportsman today.
Al-Rajhi’s victory wasn’t just personal; it was a groundbreaking achievement for Saudi Arabia. Competing against vastly experienced factory teams, Al-Rajhi led a private team to a historic win, shattering long-held beliefs about the capabilities of local drivers. His achievement is monumental—not only was he the first Saudi driver to win in Saudi Arabia, but he is also a beacon of inspiration for future competitors aspiring to engage with the sport at local and international levels.
Reflecting on this, Al-Rajhi stated, “We made records today: the first Saudi driver to win and no private team has beaten a factory team in the last twenty-five years.” The significance of his words resonates within the motorsport community, fostering hope for aspiring racing talents in the region. This landmark victory mirrors pivotal moments in sports history—akin to Saudi Arabia’s unexpected triumph over Argentina in the 2022 World Cup.
As Al-Rajhi looks to the future of motorsport in Saudi Arabia, he is already envisioning challenges and opportunities for young drivers. By offering lucrative prizes for podium finishes, he aims to cultivate a robust environment for aspiring racers to explore their capabilities on challenging terrains, similar to those of the Dakar Rally. However, winning the Dakar is no easy task, and through his own journey, Al-Rajhi emphasizes the importance of perseverance and learning—it took him years of dedication to achieve his ultimate goal.
Additionally, the role of mentorship is not lost on him. Al-Rajhi has openly acknowledged the guidance of established rally greats like Sainz Sr., who provided helpful advice leading up to the final stage of the competition. Such gestures from renowned athletes are not merely acts of kindness but pivotal moments of knowledge transfer that can inspire and shape future generations.
The victory of Yazeed Al-Rajhi is not merely the culmination of personal ambition; it is a definitive moment that heralds a new chapter for Saudi motorsport. As attention shifts to the potential of the region, Al-Rajhi’s achievements drive the message that with the right mix of passion, dedication, and support, the next generation of Saudi rally drivers can aspire to follow in his tire tracks—and perhaps even outshine him. The story of Al-Rajhi will undoubtedly reverberate within racing circles for years to come, serving as inspiration for those daring to dream in a sport where every second counts.