Saudi motorsport icon Al Rajhi claimed his first podium at the first round of the 2021 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country after his accident.

Villamartin (Spain): Saudi motorsport icon, Yazeed Mohammad Al Rajhi made his comeback after Baja Sharqiya accident early this year through the opening round of the 2021 FIA World Cup for cross country alongside German co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz who was replacing Michael Orr in this rally.

Partnered by German co-driver Zitzewitz in a Toyota Hilux Overdrive, Al Rajhi claimed the first points in the first round of the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies as the duo was happy to accomplish the mission together in Andalucia Rally, with a total time of 10 hrs 34 mins and 15 secs and in a total distance of 1473 kilometers of 4 stages which covered in total.

The Saudi hero adopted a different driving style from his usual driving, as he did not extract more from his Toyota Hilux just to avoid off-road bumps following his-just-healed injured neck on his comeback event.

Andalucia Rally marked Al Rajhi gateway to his return to racing, however, during the four days, the Spanish Rally route was distinguished by its technical and narrow characterized by high speed and medium to low speed at some stages.

The Saudi motorsport icon said: “I’m happy that we’ve finished on the podium, third overall. It was four challenging days full of excitement although I wasn’t pushing too hard and took a careful approach so that my neck is not affected by the bumps. It was my first participation after the accident”

“I really enjoyed this Rally, and it was as a training and qualification rally for me for a stronger comeback in the next rallies”

Nevertheless, Yazeed thanks his strategic partner for their unlimited support saying: “We are looking forward to the next rally with my strategic partner Toyota and Abdul Latif Jameel Motors.”

Co-driver, Zitzewitz expressed his happiness by the chance he got sitting beside Al Rajhi replacing Orr, who is still recovering from Sharqiya Baja: “I’m happy for our results and happy to see Yazeed back behind the wheel after the accident in Andalucia Rally”

“Actually, Yazeed’s driving style was completely different from what I have experienced before with him, he was very careful.”

“It was a catalytic and important station for Captain Yazeed to get back in shape after the accident. We did a wonderful job together, and I was impressed by the confidence he possesses.”