Al-Attiyah confirms, Sainz offside

Carlos Sainz (VW), long leader of the 2011 Dakar, has just experienced two nightmarish days. After being blocked twice on Wednesday, the Spaniard encountered suspension problems this Thursday. Did he lose 1h15? on the winner of the day, Nasser Al-Attiyah, who consolidates his position as leader of the event.

In the general classification, Carlos Sainz is now third, almost 90 minutes behind the Qatari, who can foresee victory. Giniel de Villiers, second more than 50 minutes behind, is far too far away to worry Nasser Al-Attiyah, unless the latter also encounters problems.

Carlos Sainz, this Thursday, also placed himself under threat from Stéphane Peterhansel (BMW). Thirteen minutes behind the 2010 winner, the Frenchman can still hope to get back on the podium, with the Volkswagen hat-trick still taking shape. This Friday, the route will take the competitors from San Juan to Cordoba, before returning to Buenos Aires.

“We started the special well. We were content to stay behind “Peter”. The car ran very well. We didn't have any problems, explained Al-Attiyah upon his arrival. I'm happy with myself. We did a good job. I will do my best to reach Buenos Aires. Tomorrow is another day. We'll open the trail. We will be as careful as possible. »