This archive report was first published on 9 January 2020.
Thirteen women from Europe, South Africa, and South America have taken part in the Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia, sparking controversy over the country's human rights record.
Organisers of the rally, which started in Jeddah on Sunday, have been accused of violating human rights and repressing feminist activists.
Despite the controversy, the women participating in the rally believe their presence can help the cause of Saudi women.
"I am sure it is positive to show everyone here that women can be competitive and strong and I am happy to represent women here," said Laia Sanz, a 34-year-old Spanish biker who is taking part in the rally for the 10th time.
Laia Sanz's comments come as Saudi Arabia has started a programme of economic and social reform, at the instigation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
These reforms include easing restrictions against women, such as allowing them driving licences and the possibility of obtaining a passport without the approval of a male guardian.
However, Saudi women remain largely subject to male guardianship, and the government has stepped up repression of dissidents and feminist activists, some of whom are imprisoned and subjected to torture.
Human Rights Watch has called on the Dakar organisers and drivers to speak out against the Saudi government's mistreatment of women's rights activists.
Italian driver Camelia Liparoti, who is taking part in her 12th Dakar, agrees with Sanz.
"We are fortunate to be female athletes coming (to Saudi Arabia) to compete and able to demonstrate that there are women who do things in a man's world," she said.
Just three years ago, the country's religious police placed strict controls on men and women, reprimanding anyone who mixed with the opposite sex.
However, in recent months, concerts and sports competitions in front of mixed audiences have multiplied in Riyadh and Jeddah.
Prince Khaled ben Sultan al-Faisal, president of the Saudi federation of motor sports, has welcomed the women participating in the rally.
"I am very happy to see women competing on the Dakar," he said.
For Jutta Kleinschmidt, who in 2001 became the only woman to win the Dakar, a race like this can make a difference.
"I think it helps women gain confidence," she said.
