VIDEO: South African Dakar heroes receive warm welcome home
Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings have made their home after a gruelling Dakar season.
The Dakar Rally is renowned as one of the world's toughest endurance races.
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Competing in it is no small feat, and just crossing the finish line is a testament to months of gruelling training and relentless determination. But for many racers, simply finishing isn’t enough – they race to win.
This year, two South African competitors have been dubbed the "Dakar Heroes", making history in the 2025 Dakar Rally and cementing their place among the legends of this iconic event.
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While Yazeed Al-Rajhi became the first Saudi Arabian to win the race, South Africa's own Henk Lategan and co-pilot Brett Cummings from Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa secured second place.
Waving the South African flag upon the dunes, the duo made motorsport and South African fans exceptionally proud that day.
Their incredible achievement sparked a wave of celebration that culminated in a heartfelt homecoming at OR Tambo International Airport.
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As they walked through the arrivals gate, Lategan and Cummings were met with signs, hugs, chants and joyous singing!
Watch the video below:
There’s truly nothing quite like a South African welcome.
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Main image courtesy of VALERY HACHE / AFP