In a remarkable display of skill and teamwork, navigator Timo Gottschalk and driver Al-Rajhi secured victory in the 2025 Rallye Dakar, reclaiming the overall lead during the challenging eleventh stage. The duo, competing in a Toyota Hilux, maintained their lead through the final 61 kilometers of the race, finishing 3:57 minutes ahead of South African competitors Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Gottschalk, who first won the Dakar Rally in 2011 alongside renowned driver Nasser Al-Attiyah. Since his debut as a co-driver in 2007, Gottschalk has established himself as one of the premier navigators in rally sports, showcasing his expertise through various stages of the event.
The 2025 edition of the Rallye Dakar posed unique challenges, including long stretches of sand, treacherous dunes, and rocky curves in the Saudi Arabian desert. Gottschalk's experience and strategic navigation were pivotal in overcoming these obstacles, culminating in a triumphant finish that highlights his enduring legacy in the sport.