Sweden’s Mattias Ekstrom secured victory in the car category of Stage 11 of the Dakar Rally on Wednesday, while American Skyler Howes achieved his first win in the motorbike division. The stage, run near Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, saw Ekstrom complete the course in 2 hours, 47 minutes, and 22 seconds. Qatar’s Nasser Al Attiyah maintains a significant lead in the overall car standings as the grueling race nears its conclusion.
The 11th stage covered challenging terrain, impacting the overall leaderboard. Howes, riding for Honda, finished 21 seconds ahead of teammate Adrien Van Beveren in the motorbike race. These results set the stage for a dramatic final push to the finish line in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
Al Attiyah Nears Another Dakar Rally Triumph
Nasser Al Attiyah, a five-time Dakar Rally champion, is poised to add another title to his impressive record. He currently holds an 8 minute and 40 second advantage over Spain’s Nani Roma in the overall car standings. French driver Sebastien Loeb sits in third position, further solidifying the competition at the top.
According to reports, Al Attiyah adopted a strategic approach during Stage 11, allowing Loeb to lead for a portion of the race and maintaining a close following position. This tactic suggests a focus on conserving his vehicle and minimizing risks in the final stages of the rally. He stated his priority is simply to finish the race in first place, even if he concedes a few minutes.
Setbacks for Contenders
The stage wasn’t without its challenges for other competitors. South African driver Henk Lategan experienced mechanical issues that effectively ended his chances of challenging Al Attiyah for the lead. This misfortune allowed Roma and Loeb to improve their positions and strengthen their bids for a podium finish.
Mechanical failures are a common occurrence in the Dakar Rally, highlighting the extreme conditions and the demanding nature of the event. Teams dedicate significant resources to vehicle maintenance and preparation, but the unpredictable terrain often takes its toll. The rally’s reputation for testing both human and machine endurance remains intact.
Howes Breaks Through in Motorbike Competition
Skyler Howes’ victory marks a significant milestone for American riders in the Dakar Rally. He is now the ninth American to win a stage in the motorbike category. The win comes at a crucial time as the riders battle for the overall championship.
While Howes secured the stage win, the overall motorbike standings remain incredibly tight. Luciano Benavides of Argentina currently leads, but only by a narrow margin. American rider Ricky Brabec, a two-time Dakar Rally winner, is closely behind in second place, just under a minute separating the two.
The close competition in the motorbike class underscores the skill and determination of the riders. Navigating the challenging Saudi Arabian desert requires not only speed and endurance but also precise navigation and strategic decision-making. The remaining stages promise a thrilling showdown for the motorbike title.
The Dakar Rally is renowned for its difficulty, often described as the most challenging off-road race in the world. Originally held in Africa, the race moved to South America and then to Saudi Arabia in 2020, offering a new and equally demanding landscape for competitors. This year’s event continues to showcase the resilience and skill of rally drivers and riders from around the globe.
With only two stages remaining, the focus will be on maintaining consistency and avoiding major errors. The final stages are expected to be fast and technical, demanding precision and strategic planning. The outcome of the 2024 Dakar Rally remains uncertain, but Al Attiyah appears to be the clear favorite in the car category, while the motorbike competition is poised for a dramatic finish.
The next stage, scheduled for Thursday, will likely prove pivotal in solidifying the final standings. Observers will be watching closely to see if Al Attiyah can maintain his lead and if Benavides and Brabec continue their intense battle for the motorbike championship. Weather conditions and unforeseen mechanical issues could still play a significant role in determining the ultimate winners.
