Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge – More problems for Nasser Al-Attiyah!

With his new co-driver Édouard Boulanger, the Qatari lost control of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge during the 3rd stage.

Published on 29/02/2024 à 17:38

Medhi Casaurang

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Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge – More problems for Nasser Al-Attiyah!

Nasser Al-Attiyah and Édouard Boulanger (Prodrive) at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge 2024. Photo DPPI / bastien roux

For Nasser Al-Attiyah, the start of the 2024 World Championship season rally-raid (W2RC) is not easy. The Qatari abandoned the Dakar following various mechanical breakdowns. Two months later, the double world champion suffered another setback in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge (ADDC).

Sailed this time by the Frenchman Édouard Boulanger replacing Mathieu Baumel, Nasser Al-Attiyah crashed into the soft sand during the third stage of the event. “It wasn't an easy day. After 60 km, we crashed into the sand. We lost 20 minutes. We had to take care of the clutch, because the 4×4 was tanked in a difficult to access place and if we stressed it too much, we risked breaking it. »

It should be noted that ahead of this competition, the five-time Dakar winner tried to make his 4×4 Prodrive Hunter T1+ more reliable and hired an engineer from Audi to supervise his personal team, Nasser Racing.

“Then we tried to attack as much as possible to catch up a little. We lost first place in the general classification, but we are only one minute behind the leader. Fortunately, tomorrow we will benefit from a better starting position and that should allow us to make up time and get back into the lead. » In the general classification, Nasser Al-Attiyah and Édouard Boulanger are only 1'10'' behind Seth Quintero and Dennis Zenz (Toyota).

ALSO READ > VIDEO – Guillaume de Mévius’ accident at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge

Medhi Casaurang

Passionate about the history of motorsport across all disciplines, I learned to read thanks to AUTOhebdo. At least that's what my parents tell everyone when they see my name inside!

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