Riyadh, January 15 (QNA) – Qatar’s Nasser Al Attiyah said he was riding high with his fifth Dakar Rally trophy, and his second in a row, dedicating the victory to the leadership, nationals and residents of the State of Qatar.
In press statements following the historic win in Saudi Arabia, the reigning champion said he feels proud of the support he always received from Qatari officials in all international championships, which motivates him into making further achievements and raising the Qatari flag in all regional and international events.
This historic victory was a result of continued efforts, patience and persistence, given the tough and challenging rally routes, the 52-year-old said, voicing hopes he would level the record number of trophies won by France’s Stephane Peterhansel.
Toyota’s Al Attiyah along with co-driver French Mathieu Baumel, finished on Sunday the rally’s final 14th stage to Dammam with a lead of an hour and 20 minutes over the runner-up French Sebastien Loeb. This victory puts the Qatari rally driver second in the list of all-time winners in the car category.
Al Attiyah said that he adopted a special low-risk tactic in the final stage, given his comfortable lead in the race.
He highlighted the great support he received from the Qatari and Saudi people, extending thanks to his teammates and all people who supported him since he started motorsport.
He stressed that he led the rally since the third stage, and maintained the lead until the end, highlighting the toughness of the 45th edition amid the participation of the most prominent international drivers and former champions, especially France’s Sebastien Loeb. (QNA)