Teenager Saood Variawa Makes History as Youngest Dakar Stage Winner

On January 7, 2025, 19-year-old South African Saood Variawa became the youngest top-class driver to win a stage in the Dakar Rally. Competing fiercely against Seth Quintero and Lucas Moraes, Variawa showcased exceptional driving skills during the third stage. His victory marks a significant milestone in the Dakar Rally’s history, especially following an earlier setback due to a collision.

In a remarkable achievement, South African teenager Saood Variawa, at only 19 years of age, has made history by becoming the youngest top-class driver to win a stage in the esteemed Dakar Rally. On January 7, 2025, during the third stage of the rally extending 327 kilometers from Bisha to Al-Henakiyah in Saudi Arabia, Variawa showcased his extraordinary driving skills, surpassing the previous record set by American Seth Quintero just days before.

Variawa, competing in the ultimate car category, demonstrated resilience as he fought closely with his Toyota teammates, Quintero and Lucas Moraes of Brazil, for the lead. Throughout the grueling stage, the competitors remained within a minute of each other for the majority of the route, with Variawa ultimately pulling ahead in the final kilometers, even overcoming a late puncture. “I definitely knew we were flying. There were a lot of places which could catch you out and end your race,” Variawa remarked, emphasizing the challenging nature of the stage and the successful navigation helped by his co-driver François Cazalet.

After facing difficulties in the previous stages, including an eight-hour setback due to a collision, Variawa expressed pride in his comeback performance, stating, “This is a good comeback.” While Quintero finished the stage in third place and Moraes took ninth, South African Henk Lategan retained his overall lead despite being pursued closely by five-time champion Nasser Al-Attiyah, who further reduced the time gap.

The rally remains a highly competitive event, with defending champion Carlos Sainz forced to withdraw due to vehicle damage and fellow competitor Sebastien Loeb struggling to maintain his position in the race after a series of setbacks. In the motorbike category, Daniel Sanders saw his lead reduced but regained time after a recalculation of his stage result, while Lorenzo Santolino claimed the stage win for Sherco, marking a significant achievement for the brand.

The Dakar Rally continues to be a showcase of endurance, skill, and tenacity, with Variawa’s recent triumph serving as an inspiring highlight in this prestigious event.

The Dakar Rally is one of the most challenging and prestigious off-road racing events in the world, known for its demanding terrain and test of endurance for participants. Competing in various categories, drivers and riders navigate through difficult conditions across vast landscapes. Variawa’s historic achievement not only marks a personal milestone for the young driver but also adds to the ongoing legacy of remarkable talent emerging from South Africa in the realm of motorsport. The event has a history of showcasing young competitors, often setting records for their age and experience level.

Saood Variawa’s landmark victory at the Dakar Rally not only highlights his potential as a rising star in motorsport but also signifies a historic moment in the competition. The rally continues to be a battleground for skilled drivers, where resilience, strategy, and teamwork are essential for success. As competitors like Quintero and Lategan navigate the challenges ahead, Variawa’s achievement stands as a testament to the high stakes and dynamic nature of this iconic event.

Original Source: apnews.com