Five-time Dakar winner, Nasser Al-Attiyah, seems to be brimming with confidence as he prepares to defend his crown in this year’s edition of the Dakar Rally. Driving for Prodrive after moving from Toyota, Al-Attiyah was asked about the main threat he sees in the competition. While some expected him to mention Audi, Al-Attiyah delivered a blunt response, “Audi? I give them just three days and they will go home, you saw it in Morocco and Aragon after a hundred kilometers.” His words raised eyebrows and prompted a reaction from another Dakar legend.
Three-time Dakar winner, Carlos Sainz, has now responded to Al-Attiyah’s dismissive remarks. Speaking to the media, including Autosport, the Spaniard maintained a confident stance, stating that he only has victory on his mind. “I dream of having a good race and having a good rally. That’s a little bit the feeling now, trying to visualize now in a positive way what can happen every day, with the Prologue,” said Sainz. He emphasized the importance of strategy and visualizing success, expressing his desire to see Audi in the thick of the competition right from the start. Sainz’s determination to fight until the end speaks volumes about his mindset ahead of the challenging rally.
Despite Al-Attiyah’s prediction, Audi remains undeterred and confident. The team is set to benefit from an FIA balance of performance shift in the T1.U class for prototype cars using renewable energies, which includes the Audi RS Q e-tron E2. This shift grants Audi an additional 15kW, equivalent to 21 horsepower. With this advantage, Audi aims to showcase its strength and competitiveness. The team has been preparing all year for this moment and is ready to give it their all. Although there are other strong contenders in the race, Audi’s commitment to the desert challenge is commendable.
Sainz acknowledged that last year was a tough one for Audi, but he sees the positive side of those experiences. The team faced various issues during races in the Baja Aragon and Morocco, which they are determined to avoid this time around. Sainz believes that the setbacks of the past have only made Audi stronger and more resilient. Their decision to continue competing in the Dakar Rally showcases their bravery and unwavering spirit. As they gear up for the competition, it is clear that Audi is focused on redemption and achieving their ultimate goal of victory.
The clash between Al-Attiyah and Sainz has added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to the upcoming Dakar Rally. Both drivers possess an incredible drive to succeed and are willing to express their confidence in the face of fierce competition. While Al-Attiyah dismissed Audi’s chances, Sainz remains unfazed and determined to fight until the end. As the rally unfolds, it will be fascinating to see if Al-Attiyah’s prediction holds true or if Audi surprises everyone and emerges as a formidable force in the competition. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain – this year’s Dakar Rally is going to be an exhilarating and unpredictable battle on the desert terrain.
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