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Qatar International Food Festival is set to return on 7-17 February 2024 Open a world of flavours and experiences as Qat...
08/01/2024

Qatar International Food Festival is set to return on 7-17 February 2024

Open a world of flavours and experiences as Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), the country’s biggest culinary celebration organized by Qatar Tourism, returns on its 13th edition on 7 – 17 February 2024, at Expo Family Zone at Al Bidda Park.

The festival this year will witness the participation of over 100 food stalls, including some of the most renowned restaurants from Qatar and the region. Expect live cooking shows, masterclasses, and cooking competitions from prominent local, regional, and international chefs. QIFF will offer families endless entertainment options and food enthusiasts a space to express their mutual passion for different cuisines and serve as a platform for chefs to showcase their talents.

Everyone’s Invited!

Vendors looking to register for kiosks for QIFF 2024 can register at: https://www.qatartourism.com/en/business-events/calendar-of-business-events/qatar-international-food-festival.

International Slovak and Paris Saint-Germain Defender Milan Škriniar Undergoes Successful Surgery at Aspetar  Doha, Qata...
08/01/2024

International Slovak and Paris Saint-Germain Defender Milan Škriniar Undergoes Successful Surgery at Aspetar





Doha, Qatar – January 8, 2024: International Slovak and Paris Saint-Germain defender Milan Škriniar underwent a successful surgery today at Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital in Doha, Qatar. The procedure, performed by Dr. Pieter D’Hooghe, Chief Medical Officer and Orthopaedic Surgeon at Aspetar, addressed an injury sustained by Škriniar during last week's Super Cup France match.

Following his arrival in Doha yesterday, Škriniar successfully completed the surgery earlier today. He is now recovering comfortably and is expected to begin his rehabilitation process shortly.

Aspetar has a long-standing partnership with Paris Saint-Germain, serving as the official medical provider for the French capital club. Numerous PSG players have benefited from the hospital's world-class facilities and medical expertise over the years

Irina Shayk and Thierry Henry star in celebratory campaign for DJWE’s 20th editionGlobal icons shine in DJWE's spectacul...
08/01/2024

Irina Shayk and Thierry Henry star in celebratory campaign for DJWE’s 20th edition

Global icons shine in DJWE's spectacular ad campaign commemorating two decades of creativity, craftmanship, and excellence



(Doha, Qatar) The epitome of luxury and design, the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), is poised to mark its 20ᵗʰ edition from February 5 – 11. As the region’s largest business to business and business to customer show of its kind, DJWE returns to the world-class Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC). Visitors will be dazzled by a remarkably curated programme with over 500 iconic brand, daily industry talks, a line- up of global celebrities and influencers, as well as unique retail experiences.

Visit Qatar unveils its new ‘Jewellery Connoisseurs’ campaign for the event, featuring supermodel and TV personality Irina Shayk, along with the iconic French football legend turned sports broadcaster, Thierry Henry. The campaign showcases an exclusive collection of extraordinary jewellery and timepieces with the support from biggest exhibitors of the event, the long-standing patrons and partners from Qatar provided exclusive access to film their most iconic pieces and brands, including 51 East, Ali bin Ali, Alfardan Jewellery, Al Majed, and Bulgari, who provided an extensive selection of pieces to be displayed on plinths.



Directed by Luca Caon, the captivating campaign film is complemented by a stunning photoshoot lensed by fashion photographer Rowan Papier.

To immerse yourself in the enchanting narrative, explore the film at:

https://youtu.be/g7gGZ2UuTbc





Hessa Al-Thani, Head of Marketing Planning at Qatar Tourism, commented: “This year’s event will mark an incredible 20 years since DJWE’s inception. The launch of this campaign featuring global superstars is set to excite and intrigue audiences from around the world to want to discover its hidden treasures. DJWE has become an extraordinary showcase of the world’s most exclusive jewellery and timepieces and is for those who appreciate high-end artistry. It is the glamour in Qatar’s annual events calendar as the nation continues its uphill trajectory as the fastest growing tourism destination in the region.”



Thierry Henry commented on his film debut for DJWE: “Throughout my career, I have always appreciated the best in design and luxury. I am a keen follower of the watches industry and admire the dedication, expertise, and years of training required for the creation of a timepiece. I am really excited to experience the entire exhibition and all that it has to offer and will be on the lookout for special pieces, designers, and craftsmen. I am also looking forward to taking in broader cultural highlights of Qatar.”



Thierry and Irina may come from different worlds of stardom but their passion for fine jewellery and watches is displayed in DJWE’s 20th edition campaign. As they arrive at a uniquely curated exhibition showcasing the most exclusive and special pieces, the stars uncover the mysterious final piece in front of jewellery connoisseurs.



Irina Shayk commented: “I am happy to continue my partnership with Visit Qatar via the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition in 2024. Their commitment to spotlighting the best in luxury creates a real sense of discovery, and I know their pieces will become family heirlooms to be passed down generation after generation.”





The film was shot at the magnificent Katara Towers and Raffles Doha Hotel, affiliated to Katara hospitality (DJWE) hospitality partner. These iconic locations showcase priceless pieces, with the film's opening scenes capturing the captivating architectural design of the Katara Towers, which represents the crossed scimitars on Qatar's seal.



Tasked to bring the story to life, acclaimed director Luca Caon and photographer Rowan Papier elevated the campaign to global stature, creating a masterpiece of beauty and intrigue. “The goal of this film is to portray the special experience of luxury that one can have here in Qatar. What is very interesting about this film is that it is of a hybrid genre, between a commercial and fashion film.” commented Caon.



This year’s DJWE also elevates the artistic industry with music exclusively for the campaign film and exhibition created by famed composer and songwriter, Ms. Dana Alfardan, who can also be spotted in the film, alongside Qatari influencer Abdulaziz Al-Ajail.



Featuring the world’s most coveted luxury watches, necklaces, rings, earrings, diamonds, gold, and silverware, the exhibition will host visitors from over 175 countries, offering unparalleled access to international brands including Chanel, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, Rolex, Patek Philippe, and IWC, among others.

Aspetar's Commitment to Excellence in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Doha, 7th January 2024- At the heart of the AFC Asia...
08/01/2024

Aspetar's Commitment to Excellence in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™



Doha, 7th January 2024- At the heart of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, Aspetar, the AFC Medical Centre of Excellence, stands poised to deliver world-class medical services. With extensive experience in providing medical care for major sporting events, the renowned facility is well-equipped to handle the challenges of organising medical support for this prestigious continental tournament.

Aspetar will provide comprehensive "athlete service" support to all national teams, ensuring a seamless medical journey for any players who encounter injuries or illnesses during the competition.

Guiding the tournament's medical commission is Aspetar's distinguished surgeon Chief Medical Officer Dr. Khalid Al Khelaifi, Having served in similar capacities at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, Dr. Al Khelaifi and his team will ensure efficient management of medical concerns for players, match officials and team delegations, directing each issue to the appropriate resources based on its nature and severity.

In a groundbreaking move, Aspetar will be introducing specialised services for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, accessed via its event Polyclinic, and two initiatives dedicated to Concussion and Sports Cardiology. An independent Concussion Assessment Service and a 24-hour Sports Cardiology service underline Aspetar's commitment to player welfare, providing crucial consultations and diagnostics.

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Aspetar will also be offering dental screening for all players at the tournament. This innovative approach, approved by the AFC, reinforces the holistic approach to athlete health, with participating teams receiving Aspetar Sports Dental Emergency Kits to help in the management of dental injuries on the pitch

Aspetar's National Sports Medicine Programme (NSMP) team, composed of specialists in various fields, stands ready to deliver high-quality sports medicine and science services throughout the tournament. A Recovery Centre, operating from five days before the tournament until the day after the final match, further enhances post-exercise recovery opportunities for teams.

Aspetar's comprehensive offerings span sports medicine, orthopaedic and general surgery, physiotherapy, sports dentistry, sports nutrition, cardiology, radiology, pharmacy, podiatry, exercise physiology, and laboratory medicine. With this unparalleled medical support, Aspetar aims to elevate the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ to new heights, ensuring the well-being and peak performance of every athlete on the field.

“Playing in front of our fans is our biggest motivation.’Qatar national team player Ahmed Alaa gets set for AFC Asian Cu...
08/01/2024

“Playing in front of our fans is our biggest motivation.’
Qatar national team player Ahmed Alaa gets set for AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™
With only a few days to go until Qatar set off to defend their AFC Asian Cup™ title, Qatari national player Ahmed Alaa is excited to play in front of their fans and on home soil. The tournament, which is set to take place between 12 January – 10 February will be played across nine stadiums, seven of which were used to host matches during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.
The 30-year-old striker who plays for Qatar Stars League side Al Gharaffa was part of the winning side that claimed the AFC Asian Cup™ in 2019, a feat he looks to repeat on home soil.
“Our main focus will be on getting a good start from the opening match and through the group stage. Building momentum at an early stage in the tournament will be critical to us, as we look to make our fans happy,” said Alaa.
Qatar has been drawn into group A alongside China PR, Tajikistan and Lebanon. Al Ennabi will play in the opening match against Lebanon at Lusail stadium, Qatar’s largest arena with a capacity of 88,000 fans. The iconic venue previously hosted the final match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, which is widely regarded as the greatest final match in the tournament’s history.
The opening match is set for 12 January, 7pm kick off. The tournament’s opening ceremony will commence at 5pm.
“Playing in front of our fans is our biggest motivation. The Asian Cup is a massive tournament, and it is an honor for any player to take part in it. Having the opportunity to defend the title on home soil is an added motivation for all us to make history right in front of our fans,” added Alaa.
Qatar will continue on their path to defend their title as Asian champions when they meet Tajikistan on 17 January at Al Bayt Stadium, 5:30pm kick off and China PR at Khalifa International Stadium on 22 January, 6:00pm kick off. Tickets for all matches start as low as 25 QAR for the group stage and can be bought online from http://asiancup2023.qa.
During the 2019 edition AFC Asian Cup™, Qatar claimed the title in a memorable fashion by finishing the tournament undefeated, conceding only one goal along the way. Alaa featured in the side that made history by awarding Qatar their first Asian title.
“The joy we felt from being Asian champions was indescribable. We knew how much it meant to our fans and to our families. Football is unique in that way. No other sport can inspire millions and unite people like it does, and that is why we play the game,” said Alaa who will look to make his 60th international cup during the tournament.
Qatar is set to host the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ for a record third time after successfully hosting it in 1988 and 2011. Twenty-four of the continent’s best teams will compete for the continent’s most prestigious football title. A total of 51 matches will be played across nine stadiums from 12 January to 10 February 2024.
For more information about the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, visit http://asiancup2023.qa and follow on X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ ticket resale platform is now availableOnly tickets purchased through official resale platform...
08/01/2024

AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ ticket resale platform is now available
Only tickets purchased through official resale platform will be accepted

The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Local Organising Committee (LOC) has announced that the official ticket resale platform is now live.

Fans looking to resell their tickets can visit the website: tickets.qfa.qa/afc2023. Once they login by entering their credentials, their tickets will be visible in the ‘My Orders’ section, from where fans can choose the tickets that need to be released for resale. Resale of tickets is final and cannot be undone.

Tickets purchased or resold via unauthorized sales channels are not valid and are subject to cancellation at any time without notice.

All match tickets for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ are digital and can be downloaded and presented on any mobile device. Hayya will not be a mandatory prerequisite to enter stadiums.

Qatar is set to host the AFC Asian Cup™ for a record third time, which will have Asia’s 24 top teams compete for glory in FIFA World Cup™ stadiums. A total of 51 matches are set to be played across 9 stadiums between 12 January and 10 February, 2024.

All stadiums will be equipped with accessible seating options to ensure that disabled fans can enjoy a barrier-free experience. This includes wheelchair accessible seating as well as seats for people with limited mobility. The LOC has also recruited a total of 6,000 volunteers to provide support across 20 functional areas.

For more information about the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, visit http://asiancup2023.qa and follow on X, formerly known as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

HYDROGEN-POWERED HYSE-X1 CONTINUES TOMAKE PROGRESS AS DAKAR RALLY REACHES AL-SALAMIYA AL-SALAMIYA (SAUDI ARABIA) – Monda...
08/01/2024

HYDROGEN-POWERED HYSE-X1 CONTINUES TO

MAKE PROGRESS AS DAKAR RALLY REACHES AL-SALAMIYA



AL-SALAMIYA (SAUDI ARABIA) – Monday, January 8: The revolutionary hydrogen-powered HySE-X1 continued its impressive start to an ambitious Dakar Rally campaign with another solid performance on the third stage of the 46th Dakar Rally in deepest Saudi Arabia on Monday afternoon.



The HySE (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology) has been entered in the new modern Dakar class (Mission 1000). This is an integral part of the Dakar Future Programme to encourage manufacturers to develop next-generation carbon-neutral powertrain technologies.



American driver Jamie Campbell and his co-driver Bruno Jacomy, from Argentina, took on their most ambitious challenge thus far on the event with a 108km stage from Al-Duwadimi to Al-Salamiya. The day’s route headed southeast into the eastern section of the vast Riyadh Province. They reached the finish without technical or navigational issues and remain firmly on target to achieve the new project’s objectives.



Quotes after Stage 3 on Monday, January 8th

Jamie Campbell, Driver:

“Stage three wasn’t as hard in terms of navigation and we had some fun moments. Everybody is lost except for us so they were all following us. It makes it a little bit challenging, just because their alarm is going off in our ears! All in all, it was a good day. I think we finished at the minimum of the hydrogen. I’m glad we made it. We had no problems and no navigation issues. I’m improving on reading all the instruments. We had fun.”



Bruno Jacomy, Co-driver:

“Today was 108 (km) and we made it, another positive day for the team and for us. We managed the hydrogen all the stage. We are happy. Tomorrow’s plan is to do the same. Maybe we can attack a little bit more. We have less kilometres and it is not a sand stage. Maybe we push a little bit but not too much so we can reach the end.”

Keita Nakanishi, Project Leader of HySE Dakar Project:

“Continuing from yesterday, stage three was over 100km long. It was slightly longer than stage two and I was worried about whether we would be able to complete it. But the HySE-X1 did the distance safely, almost running out of fuel. After the stage, I asked Bruno about the condition of the track and he said that the first half was wadi and the road surface was very soft sand.



“So, I guess, that condition made the car consume a lot of hydrogen. It was a good experience, as we prepare for stage six later this week. I thank Jamie and Bruno for running the long stages two days in a row. Tomorrow’s stage will have a shorter distance, so I would like to aim to collect data by driving at high speed again.”



The crew tackled a 105km special stage on a desert track between Al-Henakiya and Al-Duwadimi in central Saudi Arabia on Sunday morning. They finished the day’s test without issues and collected the 10 points available to successful crews taking part in the modern Dakar class.



Quotes after Stage 2 on Sunday, January 7th

Jamie Campbell, Driver:

“We wanted to finish the whole stage so we conserved hydrogen all stage, maybe driving at 35-40km/h. Again, Bruno’s navigating was spot on and it was a case of me trying to learn to drive off his navigation. Everything went great with the car.”



Bruno Jacomy, Co-driver:

“It was a good day for us. We had some navigation so we needed to do it ‘on-point’ to make sure we didn’t do more distance. We were running out of fuel so we needed to be aware and clever. It was a good day for the team. We made 105km so it was really good. We are really happy.”



Keita Nakanishi, Project Leader of HySE Dakar Project:

“Stage two had a set distance of 105km. Because of the longest driving record of HySE-X1 so far was up to 70km, there were many uncertainties as to whether we would be able to complete the stage and the distance safely. After the detail was announced by the organisers, we decided to try to complete the 105km distance.



“To make it happen, all team members analysed the course, made a driving plan and then the driver and co-driver executed it well. I thank the whole team for their hard work. The next stage is also over 100km, so we will analyse the data obtained and will try to find a way to speed up a little while increasing the stage distance. We will make a solid plan from now on.”



The HySE-X1 SSV is a joint project between the Japanese automotive manufacturers – Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Toyota and Yamaha – and utilises a chassis built by Overdrive Racing.



The chassis has been modified to accommodate three hydrogen fuel tanks and fuel supply system powering a 998cc, four-stroke supercharged motorcycle engine being used in research and development.



Tomorrow (Tuesday), competitors in the Dakar Future Mission 1000 class tackle another challenging stage of 76km between Al-Salamiya and Al-Hofuf to the northeast. Competitors will then spend the night in a purpose-built bivouac at the historic desert city close to the Al-Ahsa Oasis in Saudi Arabia’s vast Eastern Province surrounded by hectares of date palms.

GROUND-BREAKING NEW HYDROGEN-POWERED HYSE-X1MAKES SOLID START IN NEW MISSION 1000 CATEGORY AT DAKAR RALLY  AL-ULA (SAUDI...
08/01/2024

GROUND-BREAKING NEW HYDROGEN-POWERED HYSE-X1

MAKES SOLID START IN NEW MISSION 1000 CATEGORY AT DAKAR RALLY

AL-ULA (SAUDI ARABIA) – Saturday, January 6: The revolutionary new hydrogen-powered HySE-X1 has made a solid start to its ground-breaking Dakar Rally campaign in the new Mission 1000 category for machines of the future.

The HySE (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology) research association entered the car in the Dakar’s Mission 1000 section, which has been introduced as part of the Dakar Future Programme to encourage manufacturers to develop next-generation carbon-neutral powertrain technologies.

American racer Jamie Campbell and his Argentinean co-driver Bruno Jacomy safely completed the Prologue stage of 27.11km near Al-Ula on Friday and then negotiated the perils and challenges of the gruelling opening desert stage, 70km between Al-Ula and Al-Henakiyah on Saturday.

Quotes after Stage 1 on Saturday, January 6th

Jamie Campbell, Driver:

“The opening stage was good for us. We needed to manage fuel, so we drove the car 60-68 km/h to manage this. At the end, we actually came out with quite a bit left, so we know we can push a bit harder on some of the longer stages. The car was very good. There were some fast roads, but a lot of rocks and more navigating for Bruno. The car’s performance is good. We have some changes we can make depending upon whether the terrain is hard-packed or sand and we are feeling more comfortable that we can make it through the sand sections. I made a couple of mistakes and Bruno corrected me and we got all the checkpoints.”



Bruno Jacomy, Co-driver:

“Day two of racing was an awesome day. It was a rocky piste with some river washaways. We overtook some motorbikes and were opening the road. It was a working day but we succeed. The best of all is that the car worked well with no alarms and no issues. We are happy.”

Keita Nakanishi, Project Leader of HySE Dakar Project:

“Following yesterday’s Prologue success, I am very glad that we were able to successfully complete the first real Dakar stage: stage 1, 70km distance.



“From the data obtained from yesterday’s Prologue and the road surface information of today’s stage, I consulted with the driver and co-driver and made a driving plan. I was relieved that they were able to run as planned. I appreciate Jamie and Bruno for their great jobs. We are now back to the bivouac and HySE members will analyse the data obtained today to be ready for tomorrow’s run. Lastly, happy birthday, Bruno!”



Quotes after Prologue on Friday, January 5th

Jamie Campbell, Driver:

“For our first Prologue, the car was very good. It could definitely have improvement but we even tested another gear on the way back to the bivouac. We think it will be better in the sand. The performance was good and no problems with navigation and no mistakes. I am privileged to be asked to drive for HySE and to be at the forefront of new technology and help push the future of hydrogen.”



Bruno Jacomy, Co-driver:

“It was a really good day for us. It was our first day racing. Jamie made an amazing job driving and we are really happy. For the next days we want to improve but making it to the end is the main goal. Being part of this new technology and to be able to make a stage like the other cars is awesome. We can do better but it’s a great start. No alarms and no problems.”



Keita Nakanishi, Project Leader of HySE Dakar Project:

“I was relieved that we were able to complete the Prologue stage. Due to short-term development, that started in August, the schedule was last-minute to see if we could participate in the Dakar Rally. We have been proceeding with development and we successfully sent the HySE-X1 to the start line of the Prologue. I believe we have made a big step by finishing the stage. I want to thank every one of the HySE members, Overdrive staff, drivers and co-drivers and all the people involved in this achievement. We will do our best each day…”

The HySE-X1 SSV is a joint project between the Japanese automotive manufacturers –Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Toyota and Yamaha – and utilises a chassis built by Overdrive Racing, the Belgian car preparation specialist that is running nine Toyota Hiluxes on the Dakar and also supplying logistical support to TOYOTA GAZOO Racing.

The chassis has been modified to accommodate a hydrogen fuel tank and fuel supply system that powers a 998cc four-stroke supercharged motorcycle engine being used in research and development. Refuelling and maintenance is being carried out on-event by Overdrive Racing.

Campbell is an off-road veteran with over 30 years’ experience in fabrication, chassis design and driving. He formerly raced off-road bikes in America and has achieved formidable success in major off-road events Stateside, such as the Baja 1000, Baja 500 and Vegas to Reno, in the UTV category and, latterly, in the Pro Stock class.

Tomorrow (Sunday), the Dakar continues its run south through Saudi Arabia with a punishing stage of 463km between Al-Henakiyah and the overnight halt at Al-Duwadimi

OVERDRIVE RACING TO RUN NINE TOYOTA HILUXES AT 46TH DAKAR RALLY ·       Al-Rajhi, Yacopini, Chicherit, Krotov and De Mév...
08/01/2024

OVERDRIVE RACING TO RUN NINE TOYOTA HILUXES AT 46TH DAKAR RALLY



· Al-Rajhi, Yacopini, Chicherit, Krotov and De Mévius head strong line-up

· Toyota looks to secure a hat-trick of Dakar Rally successes in Saudi Arabia



AL-ULA (SAUDI ARABIA) – Wednesday, January 3: Overdrive Racing will run Toyota Hiluxes and crew members from eight different nations, while offering logistical back-up to Toyota Gazoo Racing at the 46th Dakar Rally.



The opening round of the 2024 FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) takes place entirely inside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a fifth year. It starts in Al-Ula on Friday (January 5th) and finishes adjacent to the Red Sea in Yanbu on January 19th.



The Japanese manufacturer has won the world’s most famous cross-country rally for the last two years and Toyotas finished in five of the top seven positions at the Dakar in 2023.



Overdrive Racing finished on the podium for the last two seasons, courtesy of Yazeed Al-Rajhi and Lucas Moraes, and Al-Rajhi fronts the team again in 2024 with German co-driver Timo Gottschalk.



Fresh from finishing as runner-up to former team-mate Nasser Saleh Al-Attiyah in last year’s W2RC, Al-Rajhi has prepared well for his home event, the Riyadh driver claiming wins at the last two rounds of the Saudi Toyota Rally Championship in Qassim and Jeddah after finishing second in November’s Dubai International Baja.



Argentina’s Juan-Cruz Yacopini and Spanish co-driver Daniel Oliveras were classified third in the 2023 W2RC and finished seventh in the Dakar Rally last year. They crew the second of the Overdrive Toyotas.



Guerlain Chicherit and Guillaume de Mévius have joined forces on a multi-year partnership and will race a pair of GR DKR Hiluxes prepared by Overdrive Racing. Along with their respective co-drivers, Alex Winocq and Xavier Panseri, the Frenchman and the Belgian will field two cars in brown and gold liveries based on the GMC pick-up truck driven by C**t Seavers in the 1980s television series The Fall Guy.



Chicherit debuted the new livery at the Rally du Maroc in October but was unable to defend his title and retired after an accident. De Mévius was running strongly inside the top 10 on his debut with the team in North Africa before losing time. He fought back through the field to finish 19th.



Denis Krotov and Konstantin Zhiltsov crew the fifth of the Overdrive Racing Toyotas and the line-up of the seven crews registered for the W2RC is completed by the Italian duo of Eugenio Amos and Paulo Ceci and the French pairing of Lionel and Lucie Baud. The father and daughter combination carried out a valuable shakedown of their latest specification Toyota in the recent Jeddah Rally in Saudi Arabia and finished seventh and second in the T1+ category.



Isidre Esteve Pujol and José-Maria Villalobos finished last year’s Dakar with Overdrive Racing and return to crew the eighth car which is not registered for the W2RC. Ronan Chabot and Gilles Picard of France round off the impressive team line-up.



In addition, Overdrive Racing is working in unison with Toyota Gazoo Racing to defend the W2RC Drivers’, Co-drivers’ and Manufacturers’ titles that were secured so emphatically with victories in all five rounds of the championship and a 1-2-3 in the Drivers’ Championship last season.



Toyota Gazoo Racing is fielding the latest versions of the Toyota GR DKR Hilux for Brazilian driver Lucas Moraes, talented young American Seth Quintero, South African driver Saood Variawa and 2009 event winner Giniel de Villiers.



Moraes finished third overall as a member of Overdrive Racing last year with Al-Rajhi’s co-driver Timo Gottschalk, while veteran South African De Villiers was fourth.



The route



This year’s Dakar starts out of the city of Al-Ula in the north, before competitors tackle a scheduled 4,720 competitive kilometres in a route of 7,891km.



Action gets underway with a 28km Prologue stage on Friday (January 5th) and this precedes a barrage of gruelling desert stages, starting with a run southeast through the heart of the Kingdom towards overnight bivouacs in Al-Henakiyah, Al-Duwadimi and Al-Salamiya.



A demanding route laid on by the A.S.O. then heads towards Al-Hofuf and sweeps south to an overnight stop over at the town of Shubaytah on January 10th.



This year’s Dakar then includes a new 48-hour Marathon stage through the vast Empty Quarter south of Shubaytah. Competitors will be able to help each other with basic repairs and maintenance, although teams will be split between eight different overnight bivouacs.



After the second part of the Marathon stage on January 12th and a long liaison section to Riyadh, crews and teams will enjoy a well-earned rest day in the Saudi capital. Action continues on January 14th with a run west and then north towards Al-Duwadimi and the city of Hail.



Teams will then pass through the northern deserts and the northwestern region of the Kingdom over three remaining stages between Al-Ula and the finish in Yanbu on the Red Sea on January 19th.



2024 Dakar Rally – Overdrive Racing entries:

201. Yazeed Al-Rajhi (SAU)/Timo Gottschalk (DEU) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

205. Juan Cruz Yacopini (ARG)/Daniel Oliveras (ESP) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

211. Guerlain Chicherit (FRA)/Alex Winocq (FRA) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

215. Denis Krotov (KGZ)/Konstantin Zhiltsov (ISR) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

221. Guillaume de Mevius (BEL)/Xavier Panseri (FRA) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

227. Eugenio Amos (ITA)/Paulo Ceci (ITA) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

229. Lionel Baud (FRA)/Lucie Baud (FRA) Toyota Hilux Overdrive*

235. Isidre Esteve Pujol (ESP)/José-Maria Villalobos (ESP) Toyota Hilux Overdrive

236. Ronan Chabot (FRA)/Gilles Pillot (FRA) Toyota Hilux Overdrive

* denotes registered for W2RC

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