11 Jan 2014

Motorcyclist dies on Dakar Rally

11:58 am on 11 January 2014

The latest stage of the Dakar Rally has been overshadowed by the death of a motorcyclists and two local Argentinian journalists.

The experienced Belgian rider Eric Palante was killed, while two journalists died when their car fell into a ravine.

Palante is the 23rd competitor in 36 editions to die in the Dakar Rally.

Frenchman Alain Duclos on a Sherco won the stage while Marc Coma on a KTM continues to lead overall.

In the cars, defending champion Stephane Peterhansel in a Mini won the stage to extend his overall lead.

The Dakar Rally is now held in South America following security issues in north Africa.