Yazeed Al-Rajhi, born on September 30, 1981, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is a prominent figure in the world of motorsport, particularly in rally racing. Hailing from the esteemed Al-Rajhi family, known for their significant contributions to banking and business, Yazeed carved his own path in the adrenaline-fueled arena of competitive racing.
Early Life and Introduction to Motorsport
From a young age, Yazeed exhibited a profound interest in automobiles and racing. His passion led him to pursue a career in motorsport, where he quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional driving skills and determination.
Career Beginnings and Progression
Yazeed’s professional racing career commenced in the early 2000s, with his participation in regional rally events. His talent was evident, and he rapidly ascended the ranks, competing in various international competitions and earning recognition for his prowess behind the wheel.
Dakar Rally Participation and Achievements
Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s involvement in the Dakar Rally, one of the most grueling and prestigious off-road endurance events globally, has been marked by significant accomplishments. His participation has not only showcased his driving capabilities but also brought pride to Saudi Arabia, especially with the Dakar Rally being hosted on his home turf in recent years.
Career Highlights and Notable Achievements
- Silk Way Rally Victory (2018): Yazeed clinched the top position in the Silk Way Rally, demonstrating his exceptional skill in cross-country rallying.
- Saudi Desert Rally Championship (2019): He secured victory in the inaugural edition of the Saudi Desert Rally Championship, further establishing his dominance in the regional rally scene.
- Dakar Rally Performance (2020): Achieved a commendable 4th place finish, marking one of his best performances in the Dakar Rally.
- Dakar Rally Stage Wins (2021): Made history by winning two stages in the Dakar Rally, becoming the first Saudi and Arab to win on home soil in his class.
- Dakar Rally Podium Finish (2022): Secured 3rd place overall, earning his first podium finish in the Dakar Rally and bringing immense pride to his nation.
Preparation for Dakar Rally 2025
In anticipation of the 2025 Dakar Rally, Yazeed has undertaken extensive preparations to achieve his dream of clinching the title on home soil. His training regimen includes rigorous physical conditioning, vehicle testing, and strategic planning with his team to navigate the challenging terrains of the rally.
Career Timeline
- 2008: Made his World Rally Championship (WRC) debut, marking the beginning of his international racing career.
- 2012: Achieved 3rd overall in the World Rally Championship WRC2 category, showcasing his growing prowess in the sport.
- 2013: Secured 5th overall in the World Rally Championship WRC2, maintaining his position among the top rally drivers globally.
- 2014: Finished 3rd overall in the Cross Country Championship (CCR), further solidifying his status in the rally racing community.
- 2015: Made his debut in the Dakar Rally, marking his entry into one of the most challenging motorsport events worldwide.
- 2018: Won the Silk Way Rally, a significant milestone in his career.
- 2019: Clinched victory in the first edition of the Saudi Desert Rally Championship, dominating the regional rally scene.
- 2020: Achieved a 4th place finish in the Dakar Rally, one of his best performances in the event.
- 2021: Made history by winning two stages in the Dakar Rally, becoming the first Saudi and Arab to win on home soil in his class.
- 2022: Secured 3rd place overall in the Dakar Rally, earning his first podium finish in the event.
- 2023: Continued to participate in various rally events, maintaining his competitive edge and preparing for future challenges.
- 2024: Focused on intensive preparations for the upcoming Dakar Rally 2025, aiming to achieve his dream of winning the title on home turf.
READ: YAZID RAJIHI CHARGES TO LEAD IN FIRST HALF OF 2025 DAKAR MARATHON STAGE
Yazeed’s Dream: Winning Dakar on Home Turf
Yazeed Al-Rajhi’s dream of winning the Dakar Rally on home turf is more than just an aspiration; it’s a journey of determination, strategy, and resilience. Competing in the most grueling motorsport event in the world, Yazeed brings not only his exceptional driving talent but also a deep understanding of multiple racing protocols that set him apart from many competitors.
Racing Across Multiple Protocols
One of Yazeed’s defining strengths is his versatility. Unlike many Dakar competitors who focus solely on cross-country rallies, Yazeed has honed his skills in a variety of motorsport disciplines. From the high-speed demands of the World Rally Championship (WRC) to the tactical endurance of cross-country rallies and the unforgiving terrain of the Dakar Rally, he has showcased his ability to adapt seamlessly across different racing formats. This multifaceted experience gives Yazeed an edge in managing diverse terrains and unpredictable conditions, hallmarks of the Dakar Rally.
Yazeed’s proficiency in rally raids like the Saudi Desert Rally Championship has sharpened his navigation skills and endurance, while his WRC background has refined his precision and control in high-speed scenarios. This blend of skills equips him to tackle the Dakar Rally with a unique approach, blending speed with strategy.
Driving the Toyota Hilux T1+: A Competitive Weapon
Yazeed competes in the Dakar Rally with the Toyota Hilux T1+, a vehicle specifically designed to excel in the harsh conditions of cross-country rallies. The Toyota Hilux T1+ is a technological marvel, combining power, durability, and agility to provide Yazeed with a competitive edge.
- Engine and Performance: The Hilux T1+ is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine derived from Toyota’s production models. This engine delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 660 Nm of torque, providing the necessary thrust to conquer dunes, rocky trails, and open plains.
- Suspension and Ground Clearance: The T1+ features an advanced suspension system with extended travel and reinforced components, allowing it to absorb the impact of uneven terrain. Its increased ground clearance ensures smooth performance over sand dunes and rocky surfaces, a critical factor in the Dakar Rally.
- Weight and Balance: With a lightweight yet robust chassis, the Hilux T1+ strikes a perfect balance between agility and stability. This enables Yazeed to navigate tight corners and maintain high speeds on straight sections, crucial for securing time advantages.
- Tires and Traction: Equipped with larger, wider tires, the T1+ provides enhanced traction and grip, particularly on loose surfaces like sand and gravel. This feature is essential for maintaining control in the diverse terrains of Saudi Arabia.
Despite these challenges, Yazeed’s intimate knowledge of Saudi Arabia’s terrains and the Toyota Hilux T1+’s well-rounded capabilities give him a distinct advantage. The familiarity with local conditions, coupled with Toyota’s proven reliability, positions Yazeed as a strong contender for the title.
The Psychological Factor
Racing on home soil brings an emotional dimension to Yazeed’s Dakar campaign. The support of local fans, combined with the pride of representing Saudi Arabia, adds motivation to his performance. “Winning the Dakar on Saudi soil is not just a personal dream—it’s a dream for my country,” Yazeed has often said. This sense of purpose drives him to push beyond his limits, even in the face of adversity.
Preparation and Strategy for 2025
Yazeed’s preparation for this year’s Dakar has been meticulous. Working closely with his team at Overdrive Racing, he has left no stone unturned in ensuring peak performance. Key aspects of his preparation include:
- Extensive Testing: Yazeed and his team have conducted rigorous testing sessions in terrains similar to the Dakar stages. These tests focus on fine-tuning the Toyota Hilux T1+ to maximize its potential.
- Physical Fitness: The grueling nature of the Dakar Rally demands peak physical fitness. Yazeed’s training regimen includes endurance exercises, strength training, and mental conditioning to handle the physical and psychological stress of the rally.
- Team Coordination: Success in Dakar is as much about teamwork as individual skill. Yazeed works closely with his co-driver to perfect navigation strategies, ensuring seamless communication during high-pressure situations.
- Technical Expertise: Yazeed’s background in multiple racing protocols has also made him a technically aware driver. His ability to understand the nuances of vehicle performance enables him to make informed decisions during the rally, whether it’s adjusting tire pressure or managing fuel consumption.
For Yazeed Al-Rajhi, the 2025 Dakar Rally is not just another competition—it is the culmination of years of dedication, a showcase of his versatility, and an opportunity to etch his name in history as the first Saudi to win the Dakar Rally on home soil. With his unparalleled experience, the backing of a world-class team, and a competitive machine like the Toyota Hilux T1+, Yazeed is poised to turn his dream into reality. All eyes will be on him as he takes on the world’s toughest rally, driven by passion, pride, and an unyielding determination to succeed.
