2012 Dakar Rally Video
Cyril Despres extended his overall lead Thursday in the 2012 Dakar Rally after taking his fourth-stage victory this year, and his 30th of his career. It was also a historic win, since it was the first time Peru was included on the Dakar schedule.
The Red Bull KTM rider had some struggles after starting second, but was able to regain his rhythm and win Stage 11, which took the motorcycle competitors 438 miles from Arica to Arequipa, Peru, with 331 miles timed.
Finishing 1:39 behind Despres was fellow KTM rider Farres Guell (Spain), and teammate/rival Marc Coma (Spain) 2:01 behind. Overall, Despres no leads Coma by 2:22 after 11 of 14 stages; both are chasing a fourth Dakar victory.
Cyril Despres (Red Bull KTM 450 Rally) says: “Another hard day today, but apart from a small, low speed crash I’m pleased with how the stage went.
“Once again Marc and I had a real tough battle, swapping the lead several times before I finally got in front at the finish of the second special. If it carries on like this, with the two of us taking back two minutes from each other alternate days, it is going to be a very exciting end of rally for the spectators and a very nerve racking one for us!”
Attached above are video highlights of Stage 11 in the 2012 Dakar Rally.
