Cristina Gutiérrez made history by winning the Dakar Rally and becoming the first woman in 23 years to secure this prestigious title. Triumphing in the Challenger category during stage 12 alongside co-driver Pablo Moreno, the Spaniard staged an impressive comeback, overcoming a 25-minute deficit behind Mitch Guthrie Jr. with unmatched determination.

The 4th edition of the Dakar Classic has been won by a Spaniard by the name of Carlos. Not Sainz, but Santaolalla Milla, a fierce competitor like ‘El Matador’ and one who has been chasing victory for three editions.

Not many observers were ready to bet on a happy end for Audi’s adventure on the Dakar. When it decided in 2022 to embark on the daring gamble of leading a hybrid vehicle to success, the German constructor made a strong impact by hiring Stéphane Peterhansel, Carlos Sainz and Mattias Ekström

It was an edition to forget for all the KTMs, broadly speaking. Since 2020, KTM has always put one of its riders on the podium, which means this year’s performance is a blow for the constructor. What’s more, it is the first time since 1993 that no European constructors are on the final podium.

The terrain proves decisive! With more than 4,700 kilometres of specials over two weeks of racing, it is still possible to predict where the victory will be won. The dunes of the Empty Quarter definitely played an important role, while the volcanic stones on the first stage also played a part.