Al-Attiyah: “Next year, I win”

Nasser Al-Attiyah will have tried everything to resume Carlos Sainz. But, at the end of a Dakar full of suspense, the Spaniard finally won, with the smallest margin in the history of the rally-raid. At the end of the fourteen stages and 4800 km of special stages, only two minutes and twelve seconds separate the two Volkswagen teammates. Despite a certain bitterness, Nasser Al-Attiyah is satisfied with his performance. “ I'm pretty happy. This second place is a good result for me. I have never achieved such a performance. »

Left with 2?48?? behind Carlos Sainz on Saturday morning, Nasser Al-Attiyah knew that he had little chance of being able to catch up with the Spaniard. “ In the morning, I really attacked but we knew that this special stage would be a long straight. I am delighted to have won the stage. I really tried everything, but hey? »

Despite his second place, the Qatari is not disappointed and is satisfied with his result and that of Volkswagen. “ The dominant feeling is joy. We had a great Dakar, without making any mistakes, without any incidents on the car. Everything worked perfectly: the team, the co-driver, the car. We finish the Dakar with 3 Volkswagens on the podium. »

After having had harsh words against him Friday evening before the last stage, Nasser Al-Attiyah wanted to congratulate the winner of the Dakar. “ Congratulations to Carlos Sainz. The main thing was that a Volkswagen should win. I'm happy for Carlos. He did his job. I tried to make my own. I will of course go and shake Carlos' hand, he is a member of our team. » The Qatari driver, after this encouraging second place, is now aiming for victory. “ Next year, I will win. » See you in eleven months for the 33rd edition of the Dakar.