For this first stage of genuine navigation, Toby Price (KTM) did not pass up the opportunity to make an impression. Having started this morning 3’12 behind the leader of the general standings, Honda’s Paulo Gonçalves, Price triumphed in Belen, 5’17 ahead of the Portuguese rider, taking command of the general standings by 2’05”.
The first proper day of navigation was keenly awaited and it must be said that it did not disappoint. With a performance that was faultless, Toby Price took the bull by the horns and demonstrated that he firmly intends to become the successor of Marc Coma for KTM in Rosario.
Setting off at pace, trailing Gonçalves by 53 seconds at the first CP, he then masterfully completed the first passage through the dunes on the rally. Irreproachable from a navigational point of view, the Australian also took advantage of his rival’s problems. Indeed, Gonçalves crashed and damaged his navigation instruments, which was the worst case scenario on a navigationally demanding stage. As a result, Price climbs to the top of the general standings this evening with a lead of 2’05” over his nearest pursuer. Stefan Svitko has moved up onto the third step of the virtual podium in the category, 14’14” behind the Australian.
Having won his first stage on the Dakar on Saturday, Antoine Méo experienced a difficult day. Obliged to open the way, the Frenchman got somewhat lost in the dunes. He lost 11 minutes to his team leader, but it could have been worse and indeed he lies in a respectable sixth in the general standings.