RIYADH. In a historic triumph at the Dakar Rally 2025, Saudi Arabia’s own Yazeed Al Rajhi has conquered one of motorsport’s most grueling challenges. After 15 intense days of racing across Saudi terrain, Al Rajhi crossed the finish line in Shubaytah to become the first Saudi driver ever to claim victory in the prestigious car category.
Behind the wheel of his Overdrive vehicle, Al Rajhi’s masterful performance saw him edge out South Africa’s Henk Lategan by just under four minutes in a nail-biting finish. Swedish driver Mattias Ekström rounded out the podium, finishing about 20 minutes behind the winner. Al Rajhi’s final time of 52 hours, 52 minutes, and 15 seconds will now be etched in the history books as a watershed moment for Saudi motorsport.
“This isn’t just a trophy – it’s a game-changer for motorsport in Saudi Arabia,” declared Prince Khalid bin Sultan, who heads both the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and Saudi Motorsport Company. The victory marks a crowning achievement for the Kingdom, which has hosted the legendary rally for six consecutive years. For Al Rajhi, who navigated the punishing 131-kilometer final stage to victory, this win represents the pinnacle of his racing career and a dream realized for his nation. The Saudi champion dedicated his historic win to the continuous support from his country’s motorsport federation and leadership, marking a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s racing legacy.