)
Due to the conflict in the Middle East and Houthi strikes targeting Saudi Arabian airports, the Dakar Rally is set to leave the country and make its return to Africa.
The reports surfaced today and are yet to be officially confirmed by the organizers of the world's most prestigious off-road event.
The competition is expected to retain its standard format, comprising a prologue and 12 stages covering over 4,000 timed kilometers.
However, it remains to be seen whether Saudi Arabia will authorize the use of the "Dakar" moniker if the rally relocates to Morocco, as is widely anticipated. The Saudis currently hold an active five-year contract to host the event.
The rally will get underway in Europe on January 9, after which participants will cross over to Africa by ferry, with competitive stages starting on January 10. The finish is scheduled for January 22.
The official route is still to be finalized and is expected to be formally announced early next week.
The Dakar Rally originally departed Africa after the 2008 edition was cancelled amid terrorist threats in Mauritania. The endurance classic was subsequently held across South America between 2009 and 2019, before moving exclusively to Saudi Arabia in 2020.
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)