IN THE SPIRIT OF
W
hen Dakar 2020 started it marked a new chapter
for the world’s toughest motorsport event. Into
its 42nd edition, the cross-country rally had
moved from its second home in South America
to return closer to its roots within Africa. Chapter three
of Dakar was now held in Saudi Arabia, and although
Asia, many felt the Arabian Desert was akin to that of the
western reaches of the Sahara.
Thirty-one years ago, Gilles Lalay had won the Dakar
aboard a Honda NXR800V, the last time the Japanese
manufacturer had been on the top step of the podium,
never had an American rider won the rally. Chapter
three rewrote the story. Yet for many it was just a sub-
plot; the real story one of tragedy and selflessness.
Toby Price, the reigning champion, went into Dakar
2020 as the clear favourite. The Australia was in great
form, his Red Bull Factory KTM team the two wheeled
favourites; the Austrian manufacturer having won the
last 18 editions of the ‘toughest race’. Price went into the
desert as the humble hero and came out as a humble
legend.
Years after returning to the Dakar, Monster Energy
Honda came into this year’s event with high expecta-
tions. In recent years the Japanese teams’ riders had
won numerous stage victories, even stepping onto the
podium from time to time, yet victory had eluded them.
Pic: C. Lopez
TRAVERSE
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