Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s Historic Dakar Rally Win: A Milestone for Saudi Arabia
Yazeed Al-Rajhi's historic 2025 Dakar Rally win marks a major milestone for Saudi Arabia, showcasing his skill, determination, and the Kingdom's growing global motorsport presence. Learn about his journey and impact.

In a monumental achievement for Saudi Arabia, Yazeed Al-Rajhi has etched his name in the annals of motorsport history by winning the 2025 Dakar Rally. This victory not only cements Al-Rajhi’s status as one of the world’s premier rally drivers but also marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia, showcasing the nation’s growing prowess on the global motorsport stage.

A Journey to Triumph
Yazeed Al-Rajhi, a seasoned rally driver, began his journey in motorsport in 2007. Born on September 30, 1981, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Al-Rajhi comes from a prominent Saudi family known for their business acumen and philanthropic contributions. Despite his background in finance, Al-Rajhi chose to pursue his passion for motorsport, carving a unique path that would lead him to global recognition.
Over the years, he has participated in various international rally events, steadily honing his skills and building a reputation as a fierce competitor. His early career included stints in the FIA Middle East Rally Championship, where he showcased his talent and determination. Al-Rajhi’s breakthrough came when he transitioned to cross-country rallying, a discipline that tested not only speed but also endurance and strategic thinking.
Driving a Toyota Hilux for the private Overdrive Racing team, Al-Rajhi’s determination and strategic prowess culminated in his historic victory at the 2025 Dakar Rally. His ability to navigate the challenging terrains of Saudi Arabia’s deserts and mountains, coupled with his deep understanding of the local environment, played a crucial role in his success.

Breaking Barriers and Making History
This victory is particularly significant as it is the first time in 25 years that a private team has claimed the Dakar Rally title, breaking the longstanding dominance of factory teams. Al-Rajhi’s triumph represents a new era in rally racing, highlighting the potential for private teams to compete and succeed at the highest levels.
For Saudi Arabia, this achievement resonates deeply. As the host nation of the Dakar Rally since 2020, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in promoting motorsport and nurturing local talent. Al-Rajhi’s victory is a testament to these efforts and a source of immense pride for the Kingdom, further solidifying its position as a global hub for motorsport events.

A Driver of Exceptional Skill and Strategy
What sets Yazeed Al-Rajhi apart is his exceptional skill behind the wheel and his ability to strategize under pressure. Known for his fearless driving style, he has a keen eye for detail and an intuitive understanding of the dynamics of rally racing. Al-Rajhi’s partnership with experienced co-driver Timo Gottschalk has been pivotal, with the duo’s chemistry and teamwork proving to be a winning combination.
Beyond his prowess on the track, Al-Rajhi is a meticulous planner. He understands the importance of preparation, often studying routes and conditions extensively before each race. This commitment to excellence has earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike, making him a role model for aspiring drivers.

Inspiring a Generation
Al-Rajhi’s win is more than just a personal milestone; it’s an inspiration for aspiring Saudi drivers and a symbol of the nation’s growing prominence in international sports. Celebrating his achievement, Al-Rajhi has pledged to award a prize of 2.5 million euros to the next Saudi who wins the Dakar Rally, encouraging a new generation of talent to pursue their dreams in motorsport.
Saudi Arabia’s Motorsport Vision
The 2025 Dakar Rally win aligns seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and promote its cultural and sporting assets on the global stage. By hosting prestigious events like the Dakar Rally and supporting athletes like Yazeed Al-Rajhi, Saudi Arabia is successfully positioning itself as a leader in sports and entertainment.
A Philanthropic and Visionary Leader
Outside of racing, Yazeed Al-Rajhi is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. Through the Al-Rajhi family foundation, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives aimed at education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. His dual role as a sportsman and philanthropist reflects his broader vision of contributing to society while pursuing personal excellence.
A New Era for Saudi Motorsport
Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s triumph at the 2025 Dakar Rally is a landmark moment that symbolizes the Kingdom’s progress and ambition. It reflects the hard work and dedication of Saudi Arabia’s athletes and the unwavering support of a nation committed to excellence. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in its sports sector, Al-Rajhi’s victory serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible when determination meets opportunity.
This historic win is not just a personal achievement for Yazeed Al-Rajhi but a collective victory for Saudi Arabia, embodying the spirit of resilience, ambition, and success that defines the Kingdom’s journey toward a brighter future.