P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The unique challenges of the Dakar Rally’s new “48 Chrono” double stage — a 835km/519-mile slog through the dunes of Saudi Arabia’s Empty Quarter — tested the li…
Frenchman Sébastien Loeb emerged as the winner of the challenging “48 Chrono” double stage of the Dakar Rally, showcasing his exceptional rallying skills. Loeb, a nine-time World Rally Championship winner, led the second half of the two-day stage, securing his second victory in this edition of the Dakar and bringing his total stage wins in the event to 25. Carlos Sainz Sr. finished with the second-best time, maintaining his overall lead in the standings, followed by Mattias Ekström. Despite a rough start, Loeb climbed to third place overall. Nasser Al-Attiyah, Loeb’s Prodrive teammate, suffered a major setback when his Hunter broke down, leading to a significant time loss. In the motorcycle category, Adrien Van Beveren secured his first win of the year, utilizing strategic gameplay and his physical endurance.
