P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Loeb had "no chance" against three-car Audi team in Dakar after Al-Attiyah exit
Sebastien Loeb’s chances of overtaking Carlos Sainz Sr in the overall standings of the 2024 Dakar Rally were dashed during the 420km test between Al-’Ula and Yanbu. Despite a 13-minute deficit, Loeb’s hopes for victory were shattered when he hit a large rock, damaging his car. He called for assistance from Prodrive, but had to rely on a fellow racer, Zi Yungang, for spare parts. Loeb finished the stage in third place, behind Guillaume de Mevius. The absence of Nasser Al-Attiyah, who withdrew from the race due to his own issues, further disadvantaged Loeb, who felt that he had no chance of winning against the team effort of Audi. He suffered five punctures throughout the stage, ultimately finishing with three destroyed tires.
