Jan 1, 2022 CE
Rally Begins in Jeddah
The 2022 Dakar Rally commenced with a starting stage in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, featuring 144 vehicles in the car category and over 400 total competitors across all classes.
Chronological Storyline (6 Milestones)
Jan 4, 2022 CE
Al-Attiyah Takes the Lead in Cars
During Stage 3, Nasser Al-Attiyah and his co-driver Mathieu Baumel secured a stage victory, allowing them to take the overall lead in the car category, a position they would defend for the remainder of the rally.
Jan 7, 2022 CE
Rest Day in Riyadh
Competitors reached the capital city of Riyadh for the traditional rest day, marking the midpoint of the rally. Al-Attiyah held a lead of over 35 minutes over his closest rival, Sebastien Loeb.
Jan 9, 2022 CE
Empty Quarter Challenges
Stage 8 brought competitors into the Empty Quarter, featuring massive dunes. Sam Sunderland took the overall lead in the motorcycle category, while Al-Attiyah continued to manage his advantage in the cars.
Jan 12, 2022 CE
Sunderland Reclaims Bike Lead
Following a dramatic Stage 11 where several top motorcycle contenders faced navigation issues, Sam Sunderland re-established a commanding lead heading into the final stages of the rally.
Jan 14, 2022 CE
Finish Line in Jeddah
The rally concluded back in Jeddah. Nasser Al-Attiyah won the car category for the fourth time, and Sam Sunderland secured his second motorcycle category victory.