South African rally drivers Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings delivered an exceptional performance at the 2025 Dakar Rally, finishing in second place, just shy of four minutes behind the winner, Saudi Arabian driver Yazeed Al-Rajhi. The duo, driving their Toyota Hilux, competed fiercely in the challenging race, which spanned 7891 kilometers over two weeks. Their impressive achievement earned them widespread praise from local motorsport fans, many of whom expressed their pride on social media, though some felt they were deserving of the top spot.
Lategan and Cummings’ silver medal at the 2025 Dakar Rally highlighted South Africa’s growing prominence in international motorsport, with their success standing as a testament to the nation’s potential in various sports. The rally, known for its grueling stages and tough conditions, saw the South African pair excel as part of the Imt Evo Toyota Gazoo Racing Team. Over the course of the 12-stage event, Lategan and Cummings showcased their skill, claiming two stage victories.
Their overall performance was remarkable, as they finished just three minutes and 57 seconds behind the victorious Al-Rajhi, whose win added to Saudi Arabia’s dominance in the rally. This result not only solidified their place as one of the best rally teams in the competition but also ensured South Africa had strong representation in the top rankings, with fellow South African team Brian Baragwanath and Leonard Cremer securing a commendable 10th place in their Century CR7.
The outcome of the 2025 Dakar Rally has sparked celebrations across the country, with fans celebrating Lategan and Cummings’ remarkable achievements in the face of intense competition. Their performance has further fueled national pride, adding to the excitement generated by South African athletes, including UFC fighter Dricus du Plessis, who has been making waves in the international sports arena. The success of Lategan and Cummings is yet another example of South Africa’s rising sporting prowess on the global stage.
