Dania Akeel named first female Saudi Red Bull International Champion

Saudi desert rally driver Dania Akeel has become the first Saudi woman to join the elite group of world champions after being chosen by Red Bull following her resounding achievements in the sport. (Supplied)

• Akeel receives accolade for her achievements in desert rallying after 2022 T3 World Cup win
• Driver expressed her happiness at joining the group of elite world champions

RIYADH: Desert rally driver Dania Akeel has become the first Saudi woman to join Red Bull’s elite group of International Champions following her resounding achievements in the sport.
Akeel, who self-describes as a “motorsports athlete,” made history last year when she won the T3 2022 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas in Italy.
She was chosen to join the Red Bull International Champions on the back of her “remarkable achievements in desert rallying by becoming the first Saudi athlete to attain a first-of-its-kind feat,” said a media statement issued on Friday.
The statement added that Akeel is currently preparing to compete in this year’s T3 World Cup for Cross-Country Bajas, which begins next month.
Following the announcement, Akeel expressed her happiness at joining the group of elite champions “under the auspices of Red Bull, because it increases my enthusiasm, encourages me to present the best in my career and (to) continue to accomplish further achievements and victories.
“Red Bull will be an additional incentive for me to intensify my efforts to (achieving) more victories … future,” she added.
This season Akeel is set to participate in at least 13 local, regional and international rallies, her largest annual participation schedule so far after joining the world of desert rallies two years ago.