Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2024 Opening Stage

The competition at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge started strong on February 27, 2024, in the Al Dhafra region, with the first stage of the event. This initial phase, known for its demanding terrain and extreme conditions, offered a spectacle of unprecedented skill, endurance, and excitement for competitors and spectators alike. João Ferreira, from the Can-Am Factory team, showcased his dominance by crossing the finish line with a lead of 1 minute and 8 seconds over his Emirati rival Mansour Al Helei from RX-Sport in the SSV category. Ferreira, who had been surpassed by Al Helei in the previous day's prologue, achieved an impressive comeback in this inaugural stage, showcasing his team's ability to tackle the challenges of the Abu Dhabi desert. The performance of the Can-Am Factory team didn't stop in the SSV category, as they also secured a prominent position in the Challenger class. Austin Jones led the class, closely followed by his teammate Rokas Baciuska. Laia Sanz, a Spanish rider known for her skill in various motorcycle disciplines, also stood out by securing third place in the stage, demonstrating a rapid adaptation to the demands of the desert. However, the inaugural stage was not without its challenges and setbacks. Guerlain Chicherit faced difficulties in the dunes, losing valuable time after getting stuck at the top of one of them. Despite this setback, Chicherit managed to recover and continue in the race, highlighting the unpredictable and challenging nature of rally raid. Nasser Al Attiyah, one of the most recognized drivers in the history of rally raid, also had an impressive performance in the inaugural stage. Despite an initial setback, Al Attiyah was able to claim victory in the special, surpassing Guillaume de Mevius in an exciting battle for the lead. In addition to the challenges on the track, the inaugural stage was also marked by early retirements and technical setbacks. Brazilian driver Cristian Baumgart was forced to retire due to technical problems with his vehicle, while Cristina Gutiérrez, who had shown an impressive performance in the previous day's prologue, also had to withdraw after her vehicle experienced cooling issues. As competitors progress in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, they are expected to face more challenges and obstacles in their quest for glory. With challenging terrain, extreme conditions, and fierce competition, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge continues to be one of the most demanding and exciting tests in the world of rally raid.