A New Challenger Emerges
The Dakar Rally’s Challenger category has a new contender in the form of Eduard Pons and Jaume Betriú. Although Cristina Gutiérrez, the reigning champion, will not be defending her title, the Spanish duo is determined to make a strong impression.
Pons and Betriú are not new to the Dakar, having debuted in the SSV category in 2024. However, their experience was marred by a series of challenges, including a harrowing encounter with a truck that left them shaken. Despite this, they have persevered and are now ready to take on the Challenger category.
A Season of Triumph
Pons and Betriú’s journey to the top has not been easy. They have faced numerous challenges, including a dramatic turn of events in the Baja Dubai, where they won the title with just 20 kilometers to go. Their rival, Khalid Al-Jafla, had been leading the race, but a mistake on the final day handed the victory to the Spanish duo.
The season has been marked by a series of heroic performances, including a win in Greece, where they took advantage of the rally terrain to secure the top spot. In the Baja Aragon, they finished fourth, despite Betriú being unwell, and in Poland, they came in second.
A New Partnership
Pons and Betriú’s success has caught the attention of Nasser Al-Attiyah, a four-time Dakar champion. Al-Attiyah has taken the duo under his wing, offering them a place on his team, Nasser Racing Challengers. This new partnership has given Pons and Betriú access to a new and improved unit, which they will use to compete in the Dakar Rally.
With their new partnership and improved unit, Pons and Betriú are ready to take on the Dakar Rally. They have already shown their skills and determination, and with Al-Attiyah’s guidance, they are sure to be a force to be reckoned with.