In this interview she reflects on her win, the rollercoaster of emotions she experienced, and and the mental resilience that fueled her relentless pursuit of victory.
What were your thoughts upon arriving, and how did you feel when you realised you had won?
It was an unbelievable moment. When I finished, I thought, ‘Okay, Paolo, good job, we finished second. It’s a good position.’ Then, I saw one of our friends from Spain at the finish, making a gesture with his hand like, ‘Go, go, go, you can win.’ And I said, ‘I don’t understand.’ After I finished [the race, I headed to] the media press zone, and it was surprising to see everyone screaming and shouting. People kept telling me that maybe I won. And I didn’t realise at the moment, ‘Maybe? What is maybe?’ They said Mitch had stalled. I experienced mixed emotions – a bit of pain for Mitch, but also immense happiness because my dream had come true. When they confirmed the results, I started to celebrate, and the press asked me many questions. It was an amazing moment that I will never forget in my life. It was incredible.
Is there someone specific you’re thinking of while celebrating your victory?
I have a special thought for all my family, all the kids in the hospital in Burgos -because when I compete they are always with me. I’m also thinking of Carles Falcón, the Spanish rider who passed away during this Dakar. This victory is for all of them.
Who was the first person you called, or has someone reached out to you?
I haven’t called anyone yet. I think the first person I’ll call will be someone in my family. Everyone is going crazy now. I just read some messages stating that they were following the race; some said, ‘Mitch has stalled, maybe Cris can win!’ So, for sure, the first call is going to be to my family.
Given the immense challenges of this Dakar, was there a moment during the race when you thought, ‘This is incredibly tough, we might not make it’?
Each stage was intense, especially the marathon stage – 48 hours of [navigating] full dunes. Maybe this moment was crazy, but we won this stage. I felt very comfortable in the car, and with the team supporting us. This was the most important thing because if you feel the support behind you, you can be stronger and more determined with your driving.
In a previous interview, you mentioned believing in your mental strength compared to others. Can you elaborate on how you cultivate that mental resilience?
I don’t know if I am mentally stronger than the others, but what I do know is that I’m someone who fights until the finish. I entered this world at a young age and made every effort to get to the Dakar. I fought for this sport, I fought for the sponsor throughout my career. Since my early days and my first Dakars, my goal has been to cross the finish line, spending countless hours in the car. I fought until the end, all the time. In this Dakar, I did the same. I went for it every day, regardless of what happened behind or in front of me. I ran my race and did everything to win.
What are your plans moving forward? Are you considering a vacation to recuperate from the demanding journey and recharge for upcoming ventures?
I was thinking about taking a holiday, but it seems I don’t have time for that. I need to work in my dental clinic for a little bit as my patients have been waiting for a month. And then, I have interviews and many commitments lined up and waiting for me.
