Spanish rally driver Laia Sanz, competing under the Astara banner, was involved in a serious incident on Thursday during stage 5 of the Dakar Rally. Despite a heavily damaged car, she emerged without injuries, a relief echoed by everyone following the event.
The athlete from Corbera de Llobregat, who celebrated her 37th birthday in December, encountered trouble on the 28th kilometer of the second back-to-back Dakar stage held in Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. The route proved grueling, testing both machine and crew as the competition pressed on through demanding terrain and extreme heat.
According to the organizers, the vehicle rolled multiple times before ending its trajectory in a wreck that left the car severely damaged. The safety protocol in place, including roll cages, harnesses, and rapid response teams, ensured that the focus quickly shifted to the recovery and safety of the crew rather than the spectacle of the crash.
In a concise statement, the organizers confirmed that Laia Sanz and her co-pilot, Italian navigator Maurizio Gerini, were not hurt. The news brought relief to fans and supporters who had watched the dramatic moments unfold on screen, emphasizing the resilience and professionalism of the team as they navigated the aftermath of the incident.
At the start of the special, Sanz had lined up from the twentieth position, continuing the form she showed the previous day when she finished in the same place on Wednesday’s stage. The day’s challenge stretched beyond a simple misfortune; it tested strategy, pace, and the ability to adapt to a demanding course with tight checkpoints and unpredictable conditions.
As the race moved forward, the overall classification remained a focal point for teams, with leaders pushing hard to secure milestones in a grueling event that has historically rewarded both endurance and tactical prowess. In this edition, the field presented a mix of seasoned Dakar veterans and ambitious newcomers, all chasing a dream that few achieve but many pursue with relentless dedication.
Laia Sanz, who is widely recognized not only for her off-road prowess but also for her contributions to the sport as a role model for aspiring riders, has in recent years shifted between different disciplines. Her Dakar participation underscores a broader commitment to pushing boundaries and expanding visibility for female competitors in a male-dominated arena. The incident, while alarming, did not derail her or her team’s resolve, and it serves as a reminder of the inherent risks that accompany high-speed rally raids across treacherous terrain.
Looking ahead, teams and supporters will await updates on the vehicle’s condition, any planned repairs, and the crew’s plan for the remaining stages of the rally. The Dakar Rally is known for its unforgiving nature, where even a single misstep can alter the course of a team’s campaign. Nevertheless, the focus remains on safety, survival, and the relentless pursuit of performance that defines this legendary event.
Observers emphasize the importance of continuous safety improvements and the value of on-site medical and mechanical support that can turn a potentially dangerous situation into a controlled challenge. In Dakar, every day is a test of nerves, and the spirit of competition often shines brighter after moments of adversity. For Laia Sanz and her navigator, the incident is now a chapter in a storied career marked by perseverance, skill, and a steadfast commitment to the sport they love.