In previous Dakar’s the first stage is a shorter day and a gentle introduction for the riders and drivers, this year it starts with a bang – 838km/520mi in total that’s the same as Buxton to John o’Groats with a Special Stage of 175km/109mi
This is what the officials have to say about todays stage.
“The competitors will be rapidly plunged into the heart of the Argentinean countryside. The combination of the route’s different features means that there will be something for everyone, while sticking to relatively simple criteria, for the time being. Fast tracks coupled with sharp bends will divide up the vehicles, according to the levels of the drivers, who will be tested in an exciting environment which marks this first special stage, but without singling out any particular category. At the end of this warm-up, the day will finish with a long liaison section to the first bivouac.”
We wish all the riders and drivers the best of luck!