Partnered by Fabian Lurquin, Sébastien Loeb clinched his fifth win of this year’s Dakar Rally and 21st general, moving closer to securing second place total. The 247km 11th stage showcased the prowess of the BRX Prodrive Hunters, with Loeb demonstrating outstanding performance as he navigated the demanding terrain.
Guerlain Chicherit and Alex Winocq, after a challenging day yesterday, rebounded impressively to secure second place, finishing just 2 minutes and 16 seconds behind the nine-time World Rally Champion. Vaidotas Zala and Paulo Fiuza, despite facing a 20-minute delay due to suspension issues, were on track for another podium finish in their Prodrive Hunter.
Nasser Al Attiyah, who clocked the fifth fastest time today, maintains a lead of 1 hour 21 minutes and 4 seconds in his Toyota over Lucas Moraes. However, Moraes is under increasing pressure, with Loeb closing the gap to just 9 minutes and 37 seconds.
The first part of the two-day Shaybah Empty Quarter Marathon stage took competitors to a remote bivouac surrounded by enormous dunes, reminiscent of the early days of the Dakar Rally before modern technologies. With no assistance trucks or mechanics allowed, drivers had to be cautious to protect their vehicles.
Loeb’s masterful driving through the Empty Quarter’s vast dunes earned him another maximum points haul, extending his lead over Al Attiyah in the World Rally-Raid Championship standings. The final positions in Dammam on Sunday will determine the leader after this year’s opening round.
Chicherit, who experienced a setback yesterday due to illness, showcased his affinity for the Prodrive Hunter, which he drove to victory in the Rallye Du Maroc three months ago.