Arriving at the bivouac on Wednesday, Nasser Al-Attiyah was very clear: “ My only choice is to attack “. It must be said that stage 4 of this Dakar 2025 was difficult for the Qatari, suffering a puncture, then forced to make a second stop to repair the left rear suspension arm this time. Mishaps which cost him more than half an hour and a fall to 7th place overall, 35’53 behind leader Henk Lategan.
This Thursday, the Dacia driver had a completely different day during this 428 kilometer stage between Al-ʿUla and Haïl. Spared by technical problems, Nasser Al-Attiyah set his own pace. Mattias Ekström (Ford) held out for a long time but the Swede ended up gradually giving in until he got closer to the 10 minute mark. At the finish line, 10’07 separated the two men.
For the five-time winner of the Dakar it’s a relief. Firstly because he was able to recover after his setbacks the day before but also because he finally opened his counter, putting an end to the domination of the Toyota Hilux, winners until then of all the specials, including of the Prologue. For Dacia, this is also a first success in the event.
Provisional classification of stage 5
In the general classification, Nasser Al-Attiyah takes 10’53 from Henk Lategan and returns to the foot of the podium. From now on, the Qatari is a full 25 minutes behind the South African who retains the lead of this Dakar 2025 ahead of Yazeed Al-Rajhi. The latter lost a little ground this Thursday, falling to 10’17 behind the Toyota driver. Mattias Ekström completes the Top 3, 20’54 behind the leader.
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This Friday, the Dakar observes its first day of rest. The resumption is planned for Saturday with a stage of 605 kilometers.
The complete rankings for the Dakar 2025
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