Nasser Al-Attiyah Secures Fifth Title At Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge With Dacia Sandriders

Nasser Al-Attiyah achieved his fifth Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge title, clinching the final stage for a second consecutive win and his first FIA World Rally Raid Championship victory with Dacia Sandriders. "It was a tough week, but we pushed hard. Winning five times in Abu Dhabi is special," said Al-Attiyah.

In the Bikes category, Daniel Sanders secured an overall victory after finishing fourth in the final stage, marking his second win of the season following Dakar. Tosha Schareina claimed the last Rally GP stage win, surpassing Ricky Brabec and Luciano Benavides. "This win means a lot after my last attempt ended badly," expressed Sanders.

The 34th edition of the event introduced a new start in Al Ain, with competitors facing a marathon stage in Al Qua’a before concluding in Abu Dhabi. The final 364km stage included 167km of timed racing across sand, dunes, chotts, and dirt tracks.

Al-Attiyah outperformed Lucas Moraes to extend his lead by 2 minutes and 28 seconds, propelling him to the top of the FIA World Rally Raid standings with 96 points. Toyota also strengthened its position in the manufacturers’ competition.

Sanders’ triumph maintains his lead in the FIM World Rally Raid standings with 63 points. Michael Docherty dominated Rally 2, achieving a clean sweep. Saudi Arabia’s Dania Akeel made history as the first woman to win a W2RC Challenger event, while Antanas Kanopkinas claimed victory in the Quads category. Jeremias Gonzalez Ferioli topped the SSV class.

Mechanical issues affected Emirati competitors Abdulaziz Ahli and Mansour Al Helei, forcing them out of contention. However, Hamdan Alali secured eighth overall in Rally 2 and won the Malle Moto class.

"The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge continues to evolve, testing the world’s best in extreme conditions," stated EMSO President Khalid Ben Sulayem. The event was held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and organised by the Emirates Motorsports Organisation with support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and key partners.

With inputs from WAM