Reigning champion Al-Rajhi abandons Dakar Rally

"Hit by technical issues, Yazeed Al-Rajhi has announced he will withdraw from the stage at km 234," organisers said in a brief update. "The 2025 Dakar winner sees his overall hopes disappear and will not be able to defend his title this year." The 44-year-old Saudi had already struggled since the race began this week and was languishing down in 19th place early on Wednesday. Last year's surprise winner suffered mechanical issues at the worst possible time as Wednesday and Thursday form the first marathon stage...