Dakar relocates to Saudi Arabia

In an announcement made on 25 April, Dakar organisers Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) confirmed that the 42nd edition of the rally will take place in Saudi Arabia, kicking off a new era for the event.

Before the relocation to South America in 2009, the closest the “African” Dakar came to Saudi Arabia was Sharm el Sheikh on Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula in 2003.

“Africa, South America… and now Asia. The third chapter of its history is particularly fascinating and exciting for a race focused on exploration like the Dakar,” Dakar director, David Castera, explained. “Here, in the largest state in the region, we can let our imagination run riot with the infinite possibilities for a tough, balanced and varied course. The sporting challenge that we are putting together for the 42nd edition will tap the full potential of this vast country and its mosaic of deserts, mountains, canyons, valleys and coastal landscapes.”

The exit from South America has undoubtedly been driven by the uncertainty that surrounded this year’s Dakar, with several host countries pulling their support, leaving the event on the edge of cancellation before ASO struck a deal with Peru. Saudi Arabia, while much more stable economically, will present other challenges, as it borders two conflict zones in Yemen and Iraq. As such, security is sure to be very tight. 

Scheduled for 5 to 17 January, the 2020 Dakar will cover more than 9,000kms, starting in Jeddah on the shores of the Red Sea, with a rest day in the Saudi capital of Riyadh and concluding in the all-new city of Al Qiddiya.

Of course, being an all-new route, no rider will have an advantage, with organisers saying the terrain will vary, with each stage having its own specific landscape, from canyons to mountains and wadis. Sand will make up much of the route, though, including the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert that features dunes reportedly more than 250m high.

The route will also be a challenge for navigation, with some of the mountainous areas on the northernmost part of the course described as a maze of valleys.

For updates, go to: dakar.com