Dakar 2025: Docherty conquers stage 10 on a motorcycle, while Sanders extends his lead
The Dakar 2025 has taken an exciting turn with stage 10, where South African driver Michael Docherty achieved an impressive victory. In the midst of the harsh sands and dunes of the desert, Docherty shone on his KTM, while his competitor Daniel Sanders remains at the top, extending his lead in the overall standings. This combination of surprises and dominance promises a captivating conclusion in this edition of the famous rally.
In the thrilling race of Dakar 2025, Michael Docherty has been proclaimed the winner of stage 10, which spanned 117 kilometers of challenging dunes and sands in the Empty Quarter of Saudi Arabia. Despite his victory, Australian driver Daniel Sanders has maintained his leading position in the overall classification, increasing his advantage over his closest competitors.
A stage full of surprises
The stage 10 of Dakar 2025 began under difficult conditions, challenging the drivers to quickly adapt to a changing environment. Docherty, riding his KTM, managed to dazzle by surpassing well-known names such as Rui Gonçalves on his Sherco and Tobias Ebster on another KTM. This triumph not only marks a personal milestone for Docherty, but also makes him the second driver in the Rally2 category to achieve victory in an absolute stage, following in the footsteps of Danilo Petrucci in 2022.
Sanders continues to lead the rally
Despite finishing in eleventh place during this stage, Daniel Sanders clings to the lead in the overall classification. His racing strategy in this stage, which allowed him not to open the route, seems to have paid off. Currently, his lead has expanded to 16 minutes and 31 seconds over the second-placed Tosha Schareina, underscoring his dominance in the competition.
Outstanding performances from other drivers
The stage was also a platform for other competitors who unexpectedly shone. Lithuanian Arunas Gelazninkas, known for his achievements in the Original category of Motul, reached seventh place on his Hoto, a Chinese motorcycle equipped with KTM technology. Likewise, driver Benjamin Melot, who competes in the unassisted rider category, secured a remarkable eighth place.
Expectations for the future of Dakar 2025
As Dakar 2025 progresses, the upcoming stages promise to be even more challenging and exciting. Motor sports experts like Philippe Monneret and Jean-Louis Moncet have emphasized the importance of endurance and strategy for the drivers, as the conditions of the Saudi desert offer a high-demand environment. The performances of the less expected drivers, as demonstrated by the current results, could lead to more surprises throughout the race.
For more information about previous stages, you can read about Brabec’s conquest in stage 6 and the exciting stage 3, where Santolino took the victory.
A Festival of Talent and Strategy in Dakar 2025
The tenth stage of Dakar 2025 has made a mark on the rally, where Michael Docherty‘s victory reflects the hard work and determination of the drivers facing the challenges of the desert. This young South African, riding his KTM, has managed to navigate a complex course filled with dunes and technical segments, demonstrating that the hunger for victory knows no bounds. Furthermore, his triumph represents a milestone in the realm of less experienced drivers, highlighting the importance of seizing every opportunity in this unpredictable event.
While Docherty celebrated his first success at Dakar, Daniel Sanders maintained his strategic position, consolidating his lead in the overall classification. Despite finishing eleventh in the stage, Sanders has managed his advantage over Tosha Schareina, who is now more than 16 minutes behind. This situation demonstrates that the combination of speed and strategy is essential for successfully navigating the complexities of the rally.
Additionally, stage 10 has provided an opportunity for other lesser-known drivers to shine, allowing them to showcase their skill and courage. The performances of individuals like Rui Gonçalves, Tobias Ebster, and Arunas Gelazninkas have added a renewed flavor to the rally, opening doors for future talents in the competition. This Dakar not only celebrates individual victories but also the spirit of camaraderie and collective effort that defines the event.
Dakar 2025 promises more surprises in the upcoming stages, and all eyes will be on how elite competitors adapt their tactics and prepare to face the unknown of the desert. The possibilities are endless, and the excitement is just beginning.
