Argentine rider Kevin Benavides (KTM) took his second victory at the Dakar-2024 by setting the fastest time in stage eight between Al-Duwadimi and Hail, Saudi Arabia.
Today's 458 km stage was less intense than the last stages: no major obstacles, a few rocky tracks and a neutralization of 179 km in the middle of the route.
Benavides, the reigning champion, finished ahead of his brother Luciano (Husqvarna), who was 31 seconds behind. French Adrien Van Beveren (Honda), leading the last intermediate, voluntarily slackened the race and finished 3rd at 1'27, thus avoiding the heavy task of opening the special of the 9th stage on Tuesday, announced as very complicated and difficult. The leader of the overall standings, the American Ricky Brabec (Honda) finished his race 4'08'' behind, but gaining a few seconds on his closest rival Ross Branch (Hero), now 2'' at 42''. Fourth in the stage at 1'41, Chile's Ignacio Cornejo (Honda) retained his third place at 4'21'' behind his teammate Ricky Brabec.
Tomorrow the competitors will face the ninth complete stage: more than 400 km of specials, dunes, complicated navigation and rocky and sandy routes.
All rights reserved © Copyright ANSA