The seventh stage of the Dakar Rally posed unique challenges for participants, culminating in an exciting victory for Toyota’s Lucas Moraes. This stage, a 418-kilometer trek around Al Duwadimi, was notably shorter than usual but characterized by unexpected weather conditions and navigational troubles that dramatically altered the standings.
Lucas Moraes entered Stage 7 after a disheartening setback during the previous day’s competition. With a mechanical issue costing him over three hours, Moraes had been knocked from contention for overall victory. However, showing resilience typical of Dakar competitors, he deftly maneuvered through adversity to clinch an impressive victory. His time of 7 minutes and 41 seconds ahead of the competition not only marked a significant comeback for Moraes but also highlighted Toyota’s remarkable engineering and performance under challenging conditions.
The added pressure of rain during the stage further complicated the driving experience, creating slippery and unpredictable terrains. Such weather changes can put even the most seasoned rally drivers to the test. This atmospheric surprise was complemented by a route modification due to an earlier navigational error at the 158-kilometer checkpoint, where several drivers had strayed off course. These factors combined to neutralize a critical 20-kilometer section, underlining the unpredictable nature of the Dakar Rally.
Mattias Ekstrom, driving for Ford, had a strong showing in the early portions of Stage 7, registering the fastest times at the initial checkpoint. However, in a sport where speed is often dictated by split-second decisions and external conditions, he ultimately slid back to fourth place. Despite this, Ekstrom displayed notable perseverance, rallying back to secure a second-place finish—his best of the 2025 Dakar thus far. This stage was crucial for Ekstrom, as it reinstated his competitive standing, drawing him closer to the overall leaders.
Mitch Guthrie Jr., Ekstrom’s teammate, also demonstrated Ford’s prowess in the rally, finishing third. The duo’s performance showcased a commendable display of teamwork and strategy, ensuring that Ford remained a formidable contender even amidst adversities.
Henk Lategan, the overall leader heading into this stage, faced an arduous day as he struggled to maintain his position. After losing 15 minutes during the race, Lategan’s standing deteriorated, emphasizing the volatility that characterizes the Dakar Rally. What was initially a commanding lead of seven minutes was almost eradicated, with competitors like Yazeed Al-Rajhi inching closer. Despite a mediocre performance on this stage, Al-Rajhi’s consistent driving placed him just 21 seconds behind the overall leader.
The impact of the staged adjustments and timing corrections was significant, causing distractions that could have easily derailed a competitor’s concentration. Five-time Dakar champion Nasser Al-Attiyah, initially lagging significantly, found himself positioned just outside the top tier of the leaderboard in a commendable fourth place following time adjustments.
With five stages remaining, the dynamics of this race have shifted dramatically. Moraes’s victory and other competitors’ strategic placements have reopened the contest, making it impossible to predict who will emerge as the overall champion. The tension among contenders like Ekstrom, Al-Attiyah, and Lategan is palpable, reflecting the constant pressure and unpredictability that define the Dakar Rally.
Stage 7 of this year’s Dakar Rally was a microcosm of the event itself—characterized by unpredictability, resilience, and strategically placed competition. As the race progresses, the advent of unforeseen challenges, such as weather changes and navigation issues, ensures that no lead is ever secure. These elements not only enrich the narrative of the Dakar Rally but also reinforce its status as one of the most grueling and exhilarating motorsport events worldwide. With each passing stage, the tension rises, setting the scene for an exhilarating conclusion to this year’s rally.