Bisha, Saudi Arabia, January 8, 2025 – The highly anticipated third stage of the 2025 Dakar Rally commenced on Tuesday, marking another exhilarating chapter in this legendary motorsport event. Held in Saudi Arabia for the sixth consecutive year, the Dakar Rally has once again attracted competitors from around the world to test their limits in the unforgiving terrain of the Kingdom. The 2025 edition promises to be an intense and challenging journey for the participants, with stages that demand not only speed and precision but also immense stamina and resilience.
The third stage, which began in the Bisha Governorate, spans a formidable total distance of 894 kilometers. Of this, 327 kilometers are designated as a timed special stage, where drivers and navigators will push their vehicles to the edge of their capabilities. As the race unfolds, competitors will navigate through the rugged desert landscapes, rocky outcrops, and deep sand dunes that are characteristic of the region. The stage will test both the strategic acumen and the driving skills of the competitors as they work to maintain optimal speeds while overcoming the treacherous elements of the course.
The race will continue through the Saudi Arabian desert, eventually concluding in Al Hanakiyah. Throughout this stage, the drivers will face a series of navigational and mechanical challenges that will demand their utmost concentration and agility. As always, the Dakar Rally’s reputation for unpredictability and perilous conditions remains intact, with every stage offering a fresh set of obstacles for the participants.
The competition then moves to its fourth stage, which begins today from Al Hanakiyah. This stage will see the drivers journey towards AlUla Governorate, covering a total distance of 588 kilometers. However, what makes this stage particularly challenging is the inclusion of a grueling 415-kilometer timed special stage. This extended distance, combined with the rugged desert terrain, presents a true test of endurance for both the vehicles and the competitors themselves.
One of the most demanding aspects of this stage is that drivers will not be able to rely on mechanical support teams. In a race known for its unforgiving nature, the absence of such support places a considerable amount of pressure on the teams to ensure that their vehicles are fully prepared and capable of withstanding the challenges of the race. This stage will undoubtedly separate those who are not only skilled drivers but also experts in vehicle maintenance and strategy, as any mechanical failure could result in a costly delay or even the end of a competitor’s journey in the rally.
As the Dakar Rally 2025 continues to unfold, every stage will provide more insight into the capabilities and resilience of the drivers and teams. With the challenging desert landscape of Saudi Arabia serving as the ultimate proving ground, only the most prepared and versatile competitors will emerge victorious in this ultimate test of motorsport prowess. The countdown is on as drivers push forward, aiming for glory while enduring some of the toughest conditions in the world.