Riyadh, January 3, 2025 – The much-anticipated Dakar Rally 2025, the largest and most prestigious motorsport event in the world, is set to commence on Friday from the city of Bisha. This marks the sixth consecutive year that Saudi Arabia has had the honor of hosting the rally, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing prominence on the global sports stage. With over 800 participants representing a diverse range of countries, the rally is expected to be a fierce competition, with the action continuing until January 17.
The Dakar Rally is known for its grueling course, which tests the limits of both drivers and vehicles. This year’s edition, organized by the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) and supervised by the Ministry of Sport, promises to be an exciting and challenging event. The rally features a total distance of 7,737 kilometers, including 5,129 kilometers of special stages, taking competitors through some of Saudi Arabia’s most stunning and rugged landscapes. Starting in Bisha, the competitors will make their way through the historic and picturesque regions of Al Hanakiyah, AlUla, Hail, Al Dawadmi, Riyadh, and Haradh before reaching the final destination in Shubaytah.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, the Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, expressed pride in the Kingdom’s continued role as the host of the Dakar Rally. He emphasized that this marks the sixth consecutive year the Kingdom has successfully organized this world-renowned event, which is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growing expertise in hosting major international sporting competitions. Prince Abdulaziz highlighted that this achievement is a direct result of the unwavering support from the Saudi leadership, which has made the development of the sports sector a priority under the framework of Saudi Vision 2030.
The Minister also acknowledged the importance of the sports sector in achieving the objectives of Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a global hub for sports, tourism, and cultural exchange. Prince Abdulaziz stressed that the Dakar Rally not only offers a platform for showcasing Saudi Arabia’s organizational capabilities but also plays a significant role in promoting the Kingdom’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and dynamic future.
Prince Abdulaziz extended a warm welcome to all the participants in the rally, wishing them success and an unforgettable experience as they navigate the challenging terrain of the Kingdom. He expressed confidence that the competitors would enjoy Saudi Arabia’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, further solidifying the Kingdom’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events.
The Dakar Rally’s continued presence in Saudi Arabia is a clear indication of the Kingdom’s growing influence in global sports, and it is expected to leave a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations of athletes, enthusiasts, and organizers alike. As the competitors embark on their adventure, the eyes of the motorsports world will be on Saudi Arabia, showcasing its unique landscapes and reinforcing its position as a leading host of major sporting events.
