The 46th edition of the Dakar Rally, one of the most challenging and prestigious competitions in motorsport worldwide, recently came to a close with a remarkable performance from Mozambique, which was represented by the renowned driver Paulo Oliveira and his co-driver, Arcélio Couto. The event, held for the fifth consecutive year in Saudi Arabia, ran from 5 to 19 January, with competitors taking part from all over the globe.
In the classic cars category, the Mozambican team completed every stage successfully, despite a mechanical setback that tested their vehicle. Paulo Oliveira, recognised as the only competitor from Lusophone Africa in this year's Dakar Rally, stood out in the prologue among 78 participants, marking himself out as the best African at that stage of the competition.
The pair finished 41st overall, an admirable feat in an event renowned for its demands. "We went in with clearly defined objectives and confident of finishing the stages, raising our flag and bringing joy to Mozambicans, who have always believed in us," said Paulo Oliveira, reflecting on the joint effort. "The races are challenging, they demand resilience and the will to push beyond limits, but the responsibility of carrying an entire nation outweighs any difficulty."
Over 15 intense days, Paulo Oliveira and Arcélio Couto covered a total distance of 7,891 km, 4,727 of which were under timed racing conditions, driving a UMM ALTER 4x4. This classic model proved to be a vehicle equal to the circumstances, just like its determined drivers.
Paulo Oliveira, a pioneer of Mozambican participation in this competition, has already notched up three appearances at the Dakar Rally. He first competed on a motorbike in 2022, and in the following edition ventured into an SSV (Side by Side Vehicle), completing all 14 stages and placing among the top 100.
This Mozambican entry had the institutional support of the Secretary of State for Sport and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, as well as sponsorship from a number of organisations, underlining national unity and pride in this achievement.
Salimo Abdula, representing the sponsors, highlighted Oliveira's performance: “Paulo Oliveira's capacity for overcoming adversity, honouring our flag, impressed me deeply. Without the mechanical mishaps, we would certainly be talking about a place in the top three. Even so, an honourable distinction was achieved.”
Paulo Oliveira and Arcélio Couto's journey at the Dakar Rally 2024 not only underlines the determination and skill of Mozambican competitors, but also raises Mozambique's flag on the global sporting stage, reinforcing the sense of national pride and belonging.
