Al Rajhi takes the lead with one day to go in Dakar 2025

The 11th stage of the 2025 Dakar Rally posed significant logistical and weather challenges in the Empty Quarter, where dense fog forced a delay in the start of activities. The organization postponed the departure of competitors until conditions were safe for the helicopters to take off, as these are essential for ensuring safety during the event. The wait lasted three and a half hours before the bikes started on a shortened route of 152 timed kilometers, instead of the 308 initially planned. This modification was requested by the riders due to low visibility conditions among the dunes.

In contrast, the cars and trucks categories maintained their original distances, with timed sections of 275 and 126 kilometers, respectively. The weather conditions did not impact the performance of these vehicles, and drivers were able to complete their routes as scheduled.

Al Rajhi takes the overall lead

The stage also saw changes in the standings of the main category. Yazeed Al Rajhi, driving a Toyota Hilux, managed to overtake Henk Lategan after a challenging day for the South African. Lategan started the day with a 2-minute and 27-second lead in the overall standings, but the difficult terrain conditions, combined with the Saudi driver's experience in the dunes, turned the situation around. Al Rajhi now leads with a 6-minute and 11-second advantage, moving closer to his first Dakar title.

Ekström and Ford make strides in the final stages

Mattias Ekström, representing Ford, secured third place overall after winning the stage with his Raptor. This result marks Ford's second consecutive victory in this edition of the Dakar, following Nani Roma's win in the previous stage. The Swede has adapted impressively to the new vehicle and is now well-positioned to achieve his first overall podium finish in the event.

Nasser Al Attiyah, driving the new Dacia Sandrider, also delivered a strong performance, finishing second in the stage. However, he remains over 4 minutes behind Ekström in the battle for third place.

Other categories

In the SSV category, Xavier de Soultrait faced mechanical issues that dropped him down the overall standings after leading the early stages of the rally. Meanwhile, Brock Heger maintains a comfortable lead in the standings, and Sara Price secured her second stage win in this edition, ahead of her teammate Francisco ‘Chaleco’ López.

In the trucks category, Martin Macik achieved his fourth stage win, extending his lead to nearly two and a half hours over Mitchel van den Brink. This performance places him as the leading contender for the title, although the podium remains contested, with Ales Loprais just 5 minutes and 30 seconds behind second place.

Projections for the Dakar finale

The penultimate stage of the 2025 Dakar has reshuffled key positions across various categories, leaving room for changes in the final stage. With only 61 timed kilometers remaining, the leaders must stay focused to secure their positions in what promises to be a decisive day.

Overall classification after Stage 11