Dakar Rally

After two editions in South America, the organizers of the grueling off-road Dakar Rally are pleased to announce that the world's leading rally-raid will take place there again in 2011.

The excellent relations built up with the two countries, the vital assets in sporting terms, as well as the swell of enthusiasm seen amongst the racing spectators last January, have led the Dakar team to yet again set the third race in Argentina and Chile for the 2011 edition, which will take place from January 1st to 16th.

For Enrique Meyer, the Argentine Secretary of State for Tourism, "being able to count on the Dakar race again is a dream come true for Argentina. For the last two years, in addition to the sporting aspect, we have displayed to the whole wide world (more than 190 countries) our landscapes and people. We are very proud to welcome the Dakar motorcycles and vehicles again and have worked very hard to be able to do so".

Furthermore, the new Minister for Sports in Chile, Ruiz Tagle, explains, "It is an honor for Chile to be confirmed as a co-host of the Dakar 2011. We are convinced that this veritable international festival of motorsports is a perfect way of showing the unique sites of our country to the rest of the world.

We would like to underline the importance of this event at a time when our country is suffering the consequences of a devastating earthquake. This Dakar will help us look toward the future and demonstrate that Chile is capable of overcoming such misfortune".

For the coming years, the rally organizers are continuing to work on several projects, in particular the possibility of a return to the African continent.

2011 Dakar Rally Schedule

> May 15th, 2010: Enrolment for the off-road rally opens on dakar.com

> November 30th, 2010: Motorcycles & Vehicles from Europe will board at Le Havre for the trans-Atlantic crossing

> December 30th, 2010: Scrutinizing in Buenos Aires

> January 1st, 2011: Rally briefing, starting ceremony and departure to the first bivouac

> January 2nd - 15th, 2011: Dakar Rally 2011 Argentina-Chile

> January 16th, 2011: Podium and finishing ceremony in Buenos Aires

The detailed route as well as some motorcycle and auto news will be unveiled at a press conference in Paris on April 29th 2010.