assistance , the 2022 podium was almost the same as last year ' s . Lithuanian Arūnas Gelažninkas retained the title , while the battle-hardened Czech Milan Engel was runnerup and Frenchman Benjamin Melot defended his third place .
Dakar 2022 featured many new routes through the wilds of Saudi Arabia that challenged many competitors . Chosen as a host for Dakar , after its move from South America and Africa before that , Saudi Arabia provides environments that epitomise Dakar ; desert scapes that feature seas of sand dunes ; rocky , mountainous outcrops ; with conditions seen in very few places worldwide . It ’ s a visual treat to both competitors and the public .
“ In 2022 , our journey with Dakar continued to reach further heights ,” explained HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal , Saudi Minister of Sport . “ We explored fascinating landscapes , which tested [ riders ] and connected the world with our generous and welcoming people . It showcased our culture , capabilities and unlimited potential .”
Sentiments echoed by David Castera , Director of the Dakar , who said that Saudi Arabia has provided a unique challenge , that included “ sand , a local speciality ”.
“ This exceptional backdrop set the stage for a gathering worthy of the halcyon days of the Dakar ,” he continued , describing this years event as a watershed moment in the
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