Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) – In a city accustomed to the roar of powerful engines, Saudi champion Yazeed Al-Rajhi heads into Baja Jeddah from December 4 to 6 aiming to secure his fourth victory in Jeddah and his fifth consecutive title in the Saudi Toyota Desert Rally Championship. He enters the final round carrying the weight of one of the most demanding seasons of his career — a season that was anything but ordinary.
Baja Jeddah marks a pivotal step in Al-Rajhi’s preparations for the 2026 Dakar Rally, where he will attempt to defend his world title after his remarkable triumph at Dakar 2025.
The Baja begins with a 10-kilometer super special stage, followed by a 206-kilometer first stage on Friday, and a 91-kilometer second stage on Saturday. The overall distance of the event reaches 772 kilometers, closing the final chapter of a season filled with competition, ambition, and stories of resilience on the sands of the desert.
Al-Rajhi and Gotschalk are testing an upgraded version of the Toyota Hilux as part of the early development program for the 2026 Dakar project. The Overdrive team, in collaboration with the duo, is working on a complete enhancement package for the vehicle, including improvements to durability, suspension performance, and tire capability to withstand the harshest desert terrains.
This intensive behind-the-scenes effort represents a strategic step aimed at building a more capable and reliable car for the biggest global challenge ahead, reflecting the team’s determination to enter Dakar 2026 with the highest level of readiness and development to defend their title.
The year 2025 witnessed unforgettable moments in Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s career. His historic victory in the 2025 Dakar Rally carved his name — and his country’s — into the records of glory, a triumph celebrated by Saudis as one that transcended sport and touched national pride. But the season also carried its share of setbacks. A painful back injury during Baja Jordan, in addition to a major crash in another round, made this a year of both monumental victories and deep challenges. Yet Al-Rajhi proved his ability to rise again, reaching the season finale with strength and determination, ready for a new stage of global competition.
Yazeed Al-Rajhi said:
“We arrive at the final round of the Saudi Toyota Championship after a long season filled with everything — historic wins and tough challenges. We faced a back injury in Baja Jordan, but the team’s determination and the support of our fans pushed us to keep going in the remaining rallies of the season: Baja Sharish, Qassim Rally, Portugal Rally, Morocco Rally, and Baja Jeddah. I was also honored to have a ceremonial role in the first-ever WRC event in Saudi Arabia, driving the Zero Car that opened the route for the competitors.”
“Baja Jeddah is not just a finale — it is the gateway to a new chapter. It is our last stop before our major preparations begin for Dakar 2026, after writing one of the most beautiful chapters of our memories with the Dakar 2025 victory. We are fully ready. We hope to welcome the new year with more wins and successes for us, for the nation, and for the entire team. I would also like to thank Saudi Motorsports for their continuous support — they are an essential part of our achievements.”
Timo Gottschalk added:
“Baja Jeddah is an important test before Dakar. The car has improved significantly, and our goal is to achieve an excellent result while continuing our preparations to defend the Dakar title.”
