Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Qatari driver Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah maintained his lead in the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) after finishing fifth in Rally Portugal, the fourth and penultimate round of the global series.
Al Attiyah, with his Belgian co-driver Fabian Lurquin, completed the rally in a total time of 12:37:18 hours, trailing Brazilian Lucas Moraes, who won first place in 12:13:05 hours, by 24 minutes and 13 seconds.
The Rally Portugal saw tough competition from top drivers around the world. South African Henk Lategan secured second place with a total time of 12:13:58 hours, while French legend Sébastien Loeb finished third in 12:23:10 hours.
The race tested driver skill, vehicle performance, and endurance, with varying terrains challenging competitors at every stage.
Standings in the T1 Category
Following the completion of the fourth round, Al Attiyah remains at the top of the T1 category standings with 140 points. He holds a nine-point advantage over Lategan in second place and a ten-point lead over Moraes, currently third.
These standings set the stage for a thrilling finale in Morocco, scheduled from October 10 to 17, 2025, where the championship title will be decided.
Al Attiyah’s Remarkable Record
Al Attiyah has won the last three consecutive editions of the World Rally-Raid Championship in 2024 and is determined to extend his streak in 2025. His consistency and experience in off-road racing make him a strong favorite heading into the final round.
Performance Highlights
During Rally Portugal, Al Attiyah demonstrated strategic driving and skillful navigation across challenging stages. Despite finishing fifth, his strong performance allowed him to maintain a clear points lead in the championship.
His teamwork with co-driver Fabian Lurquin was pivotal in managing pace, avoiding mechanical issues, and efficiently handling the rally’s complex terrain.
Championship Implications
The results from Rally Portugal have increased anticipation for the final round in Morocco. With only a narrow points margin separating the top three drivers, the outcome will depend on careful driving, strategy, and endurance.
Al Attiyah’s lead makes him the frontrunner, but competitors Lategan and Moraes remain within striking distance, promising an exciting finale.
The final round in Morocco will feature desert tracks, dunes, and off-road challenges, testing the limits of both driver and machine. Al Attiyah will aim to secure his fourth consecutive championship, further cementing his legacy in rally-raid history.
Fans and teams alike are preparing for intense competition, with the W2RC championship title hanging in the balance as drivers battle for top positions.
Legacy and Global Recognition
Al Attiyah’s consistent victories in W2RC have earned him recognition as one of the greatest rally-raid drivers. His ability to balance speed, strategy, and reliability has kept him at the forefront of global motorsport, inspiring future drivers in the Middle East and beyond.
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