Kerala-based rider Harith Noah has become the only Indian to complete the 2021 Dakar Rally as he crossed the finish line at the end of Stage 12. The rider managed to finish 20th overall after an incredible run through 12 stages, which is also the highest-ranking for any Indian rider in Dakar so far. Noah entered the rally as a privateer supported by Sherco Racing while TVS Racing backed the rider after withdrawing from Dakar at the last minute. This was Harith's second outing at Dakar and the rider has managed to get incredible results in what was a tough rally as a whole for all competitors, new and experienced alike.
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After an impressive run through Stage 11 where he finished at P22, the final stage of the 2021 Dakar Rally was a short one and saw the rider complete the stage at P19. Stage 11 dropped its own challenges with navigation being an issue that cost him time, while his roadbook did not show the speed zone, which meant he was riding slow. Nevertheless, the Indian rider managed to complete the gruelling journey through Saudi Arabia, which is a feat in itself.
Ashish Raorane finished Stage 12 in 61st place but is not eligible for a ranking
Apart from Noah, the 2021 Dakar Rally had two more Indian riders in participation. This included Hero MotoSport Team Rally's CS Santosh as well as privateer Ashish Raorane. Santosh had a crash in Stage 4 and is currently in an induced coma. Raorane, on the other hand, crashed during Stage 5 and was even hospitalised but managed to make a recovery and rejoined the rally in Stage 9 in the Dakar Experience category. He finished Stage 12 in 61st place but the rider is not eligible for a ranking bu. Raoraone does take back valuable experience from his maiden attempt.
