Saudi driver Dania Akeel ‘happy’ after completing Spain rally, bagging extra points

RIYADH: Saudi racing driver Dania Akeel successfully finished the fourth round of the FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas in Aragon, northern Spain, accompanied by her German navigator Tay Berry.

Competing in the T3 category, the two-day race covered around 847 km including 546 special stages and took place in temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius.

Akeel started the round in the show stage against strong competition, but on day two dropped down the positions after her car experienced mechanical problems and got a flat tire.

However, she battled on to finish in 12th position and score five additional points.

She said: “I am happy with this result despite the strong competition and technical problems we always expect in the stages, especially on the first day.

“However, the car ran smoothly on the second day, and I, alongside Berry, managed to reduce the time differential and head to the finish line.

“My navigator Berry played a significant role in this rally and proved her experience, which helped me achieve this good result and score more points in the championship.

“There are four remaining rounds in this season, and we are determined to stay in the competition,” she added.

Akeel is sponsored by Abdul Latif Jameel Co., Saudi Tamer Group, and Hertz, as well as Toyota Oils, BFGoodrich Tires, Magrabi Hospitals and Centers, and Red Bull energy drinks.

The fifth round of the championship will take place in Poland between Aug. 24 and 27.