Lucas Moraes once again etched his name into motorsport history with a triumphant win in the seventh stage of the 2025 Dakar Rally, held in Saudi Arabia. This victory marks only the second time a Brazilian driver has conquered a stage in the prestigious competition, both of which were achieved by Lucas. His first stage victory occurred during the third stage of the 2024 edition, cementing his status as a pioneer for Brazil in the global rally scene.
Partnering with the seasoned Spanish navigator Armand Monleón, Lucas overcame significant challenges to dominate the 418-kilometer stage, clocking a time of 4h01min49s. Despite being in 13th place overall in the Ultimate FIA Car category, trailing the South African leader Henk Lategan by 3h15min13s, Lucas celebrated this victory as a testament to his resilience and the hard work of his team.
“It was an incredible stage for us. We started strong, maintained a great rhythm, and managed to secure the win. Even without pressure for the overall result, this stage victory is a fantastic accomplishment for Brazil and the team after the challenges we faced yesterday,” Lucas shared emotionally after his win.
a journey of perseverance and success
Lucas Moraes, 33, embarked on his rally career with the dream of representing Brazil on the international stage. Born in São Paulo, he made a name for himself by excelling in domestic competitions, earning a three-time championship title at the Rally dos Sertões. His talent attracted the attention of international teams, leading to his Dakar Rally debut in 2024.
That year, Lucas became the first Brazilian to reach the podium at the Dakar Rally, finishing third in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship. This unprecedented achievement set the stage for a promising career, and in 2025, Lucas proved his mettle again by claiming his second stage win, reinforcing his reputation as one of the top drivers in the sport.
In the latest instalment of Dakar Explore we get a lesson in beekeeping at the Bees and Palms Resort in the city of Hail ????#Dakar2025 #DakarInSaudi pic.twitter.com/xNpa6slasU
— DAKAR RALLY (@dakar) January 12, 2025
the challenges of the seventh stage
The seventh stage of the Dakar Rally was one of the most grueling in the 2025 edition, featuring a mix of vast dunes and rocky terrain. Covering 418 kilometers, the course tested the limits of drivers and vehicles alike. Lucas and Monleón capitalized on their strategic starting position, maintaining a relentless pace that kept them ahead throughout the stage.
Navigating such demanding terrain requires precision, endurance, and teamwork. The synchronization between Lucas and his navigator was crucial, highlighting the importance of trust and communication in rally-raid competitions.
a milestone for brazilian motorsport
Lucas Moraes’ stage victory is a significant milestone for Brazilian motorsport, a field historically dominated by Formula 1 and circuit racing. His achievements in rally-raid not only bring global recognition to Brazil but also inspire a new generation of drivers to explore the discipline.
The success of Lucas also underscores the importance of investment in training and infrastructure. His journey is a testament to how dedication and technical support can propel Brazilian athletes to compete at the highest international levels.
the dakar rally: a test of endurance and prestige
The Dakar Rally, originally known as the Paris-Dakar Rally, is the world’s most renowned rally-raid event. Established in 1979, the competition has traversed various regions, beginning in Europe and Africa before moving to South America from 2009 to 2019. Since 2020, the event has been hosted in Saudi Arabia, offering a diverse and challenging landscape.
The 2025 edition, the 47th in the rally’s history, featured 807 competitors across categories such as cars, motorcycles, and trucks, covering approximately 7,700 kilometers. The extreme conditions and demanding routes make the Dakar a true test of endurance for both drivers and machines.
key facts and figures about the 2025 dakar rally
- Participants: 807 competitors from multiple categories.
- Total distance: Approximately 7,700 kilometers.
- Categories: Cars, motorcycles, trucks, and utility vehicles.
- Historical background: Founded in 1979, the Dakar is the pinnacle of rally-raid racing.
- Brazilian representation: Lucas Moraes is the only Brazilian to achieve stage victories in the Dakar.
the role of armand monleón
Spanish navigator Armand Monleón has been instrumental in Lucas Moraes’ success. Navigators play a crucial role in rally-raids, guiding drivers through uncharted terrain and making split-second decisions. Monleón’s extensive experience and strategic insights complement Lucas’ driving skills, forming a partnership that has delivered remarkable results.
curiosities about the dakar rally
- Origins: The rally was initially called Paris-Dakar because it began in Paris and ended in Dakar, Senegal.
- Relocation: Security concerns led to its relocation to South America in 2009 and later to Saudi Arabia in 2020.
- Specialized vehicles: Dakar vehicles are custom-built to withstand extreme terrains and temperatures.
- Women in Dakar: The event has seen a growing number of female competitors, with women excelling as both drivers and navigators.
economic and cultural impact of the dakar
Beyond its sporting significance, the Dakar Rally has a substantial economic and cultural impact. In Saudi Arabia, the event attracts thousands of tourists, bolstering local industries such as hospitality, logistics, and tourism. Additionally, the rally showcases the country’s landscapes and culture to a global audience through extensive media coverage.
For sponsors and manufacturers, the Dakar serves as a platform to demonstrate the durability and performance of their vehicles. Lucas Moraes’ team, supported by Toyota, uses the rally as a showcase for their cutting-edge technology and engineering excellence.
the future of lucas moraes in international rallying
Following the Dakar Rally, Lucas Moraes will continue competing in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship, with upcoming stages in Abu Dhabi, South Africa, Portugal, and Morocco. His impressive track record positions him as one of Brazil’s most promising figures in international rallying. Fans and experts alike anticipate more groundbreaking performances as he further establishes his legacy.
