Sport · Singapore Bureau
Dakar Rally organisers map alternative Saudi route amid Middle East tensions
The Dakar Rally's organisers are developing a contingency course for the January event in Saudi Arabia as regional instability threatens to disrupt the prestigious motorsport competition. World Rally-Raid Championship officials are preparing backup plans to ensure the race proceeds as scheduled.
LSN Singapore ·
Organisers of the Dakar Rally are actively working on an alternative route through Saudi Arabia to safeguard the January edition of the gruelling cross-country motorsport event, according to multiple sources involved in the World Rally-Raid Championship.
The planning comes as heightened tensions across the Middle East raise concerns about staging the race as originally planned. By developing a contingency course, race officials aim to mitigate potential disruptions while maintaining the event's status as one of motorsport's most demanding endurance competitions.
The rally has been held in Saudi Arabia since 2020 following its relocation from Africa. Dakar organisers have not publicly detailed specific changes to the route or timing, but the contingency planning reflects their commitment to maintaining the event's January calendar window.
The World Rally-Raid Championship had not issued an official public statement regarding the alternative route plans at the time of reporting. Confirmation of any route modifications typically comes closer to the race date, allowing organisers time to assess security and logistical considerations.