The Dakar Rally, an iconic fixture in the world of motorsport, has traversed various terrains since its inception in 1979, challenging both established and emerging drivers alike. In 2025, the rally returned to Saudi Arabia, and in a historic twist, local talent Yazeed Al-Rajhi emerged victorious, becoming the first driver to secure the prestigious Touareg trophy on his home soil. This landmark achievement is not merely a personal best for Al-Rajhi but a significant milestone for Saudi Arabian motorsport, marking a new chapter in the often overlooked yet burgeoning local rally scene.
The 2025 edition of the Dakar Rally was particularly unusual, characterized by the early exits of several frontrunners, notably Carlos Sainz Sr. and Sebastien Loeb. Their departures opened the door for competitors like Al-Rajhi, who capitalized on the unexpected twists of the competition. The year’s event deviated from the norm, with many favorites struggling and paving the way for a unique narrative—one that saw a Saudi driver triumph in a race traditionally dominated by seasoned international contenders.
For Al-Rajhi, the victory was the pinnacle of a long and passionate journey through motorsport. Starting his competitive career in 2007 at local rally events, he quickly transitioned to international competitions by 2014. Despite numerous appearances in the Dakar Rally since 2015, this year’s win marked a significant leap for him—especially given his previous best finish of third place in 2022, where he had not led any individual stage.
Yazeed Al-Rajhi is not merely a driver; he is a notable entrepreneur, balancing his commitment to motorsport with an extensive business portfolio that includes coffee shops, the Al-Rajhi Bank, and significant stakes in the beverage and steel industries. Juggling both worlds, he seizes every opportunity during the Dakar to attend to business matters, often managing emails and business queries from the passenger seat of his Toyota Hilux.
Al-Rajhi’s leadership and ambition extend beyond personal achievement. His noteworthy position in the Saudi economy allows him to envision a future for the nation’s motorsport industry. With aspirations that transcend personal success, he has initiated programs designed to attract and inspire the next generation of Saudi rally drivers. The promise of substantial financial incentives—up to 2.5 million euros for podium finishes—demonstrates his commitment to fostering local talent.
The path to this historic victory was not without its challenges. Al-Rajhi’s prior experiences, including a devastating accident during the 2022 rally, taught him essential lessons about pacing and strategy. This year, he made a conscious choice to temper his speed and approach the race with caution, proving that understanding the dynamics of competition often outweighs raw speed. His evolution as a driver was marked by calculated decisions, which ultimately led him to the summit of the podium.
In an encouraging twist, Al-Rajhi received support from the likes of Carlos Sainz Sr., who offered personal advice leading up to the decisive stages of the race. This camaraderie among drivers, even among competitors, is a testament to the spirit of motorsport where knowledge and experience are shared to elevate the craft and enrich the overall competitive environment. Sainz’s influence provided Al-Rajhi an edge, and he embraced the opportunity to learn from a veteran.
Al-Rajhi’s triumph symbolizes not just a personal victory but represents a significant cultural moment for Saudi Arabia. The implications of his win resonate beyond the sporting realm—it’s a powerful statement of national pride and ambition. Achieving the prestigious title as the first Saudi winner in his home country reshapes perceptions about the region’s capability to host and succeed in high-profile international sporting events.
Looking forward, Al-Rajhi’s intention to develop Saudi motorsport implies a bright future for aspiring drivers in the region. He envisions a thriving community built on shared knowledge and competitive spirit, hoping to inspire young contenders to follow in his footsteps. With motorsport gaining traction and local support, the seeds have been planted for nurturing talent that could lead to further national achievements in global competitions.
Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s victory at the Dakar Rally in 2025 is not just a personal milestone, but a beacon of hope and motivation for the future of Saudi motorsport. His journey embodies resilience, with a focus on learning and growing, paving the way for a new generation of racers eager to etch their names in the annals of rally history.