Jan 1, 2003 CE
Start in Marseille
The 25th edition of the Dakar Rally begins in Marseille, France, with competitors embarking on a journey that will cover over 8,500 kilometers across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Chronological Storyline (7 Milestones)
Jan 3, 2003 CE
Arrival in Tunisia
After crossing the Mediterranean Sea, the rally arrives in Tunisia for Stage 3, navigating through the challenging dunes and rocky terrains around Tozeur.
Jan 6, 2003 CE
Entering Libya
The rally enters Libya for a series of demanding stages, featuring vast deserts and high-speed tracks that test the endurance of both drivers and vehicles.
Jan 10, 2003 CE
Rest Day in Sabha
Competitors take a well-deserved rest day in Sabha, Libya, allowing teams to perform maintenance on their vehicles and drivers to recover before the second half of the race.
Jan 12, 2003 CE
Crossing into Egypt
The route crosses the border from Libya into Egypt, leading competitors into the Siwa Oasis and the formidable dunes of the Egyptian Western Desert.
Jan 17, 2003 CE
The Great Sand Sea
The rally navigates through the Great Sand Sea in Egypt, one of the most difficult and visually stunning landscapes of the entire event, pushing competitors to their limits.
Jan 19, 2003 CE
Finish in Sharm el-Sheikh
The 2003 Dakar Rally concludes in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Japanese driver Hiroshi Masuoka wins the car category in his Mitsubishi Pajero, while French rider Richard Sainct takes the motorcycle victory on a KTM.