Stage 4 of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge saw competitors endure a grueling 394-kilometer journey from the Marathon Camp in Al Qua'a back to Mezaira'a, with 300 kilometers raced against the clock.
The longest stage of this year's edition tested both skill and endurance, as drivers had to maintain their vehicles overnight without the aid of service crews due to the marathon stage conditions. Upon reaching the destination, teams finally had the opportunity for much-needed repairs ahead of the final stretch of the rally.
Eryk Goczał secured his maiden victory in the Ultimate class, making an impressive debut in the category with Overdrive Racing. Meanwhile, Nasser Al Attiyah held onto his overall lead, though his advantage shrank to just 41 seconds over Lucas Moraes of Toyota Gazoo Racing.
However, it was a tough day for The Dacia Sandriders team, as Sébastien Loeb crashed out of contention. In the Challenger class, Yasir Seaidan claimed the stage win, though his teammate Dania Akeel managed to retain the overall lead. Emirati driver Mansour Al Helei celebrated a much-needed victory in the SSV category.
On two wheels, Daniel Sanders of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing dominated the motorbike stage and reclaimed the overall lead, extending his advantage to 7 minutes and 23 seconds over Ricky Brabec of Monster Energy Honda HRC.
In Rally 2, Michael Docherty continued his dominant streak by winning yet another stage, bringing him closer to the title, while Antanas Kanopkinas took control of the quad division after a strong performance. With only one stage remaining, competitors now face a 364-kilometer final test, including 167 kilometers of timed racing, before the champions are crowned in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
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