Very consistent Yamaha rider in the eighth stage of the race
António Maio successfully completed another day in the 46th edition of the Dakar Rally, finishing in 22nd position in the absolute classification in the eighth stage of the race, completed between Al Duwadimi and Hail and comprising a total of 678km. The special featured a demanding selective sector of 458km, dotted with many sandy areas, and where navigation was once again very complex. Despite the complexity of the journey, the Yamaha rider managed to deftly overcome all the difficulties he encountered.
Today was an intense day for the GNR Major, who spent 3h57m09' completing the route of this eighth stage, with the driver trying to maintain focus so as not to make mistakes as the end of the race is getting closer and closer. At a time when there are only four stages left in the 2024 Dakar Rally, António Maio maintains 17th in the general classification and 11th place in the Rally GP Ranking.
“Today’s stage was very fast and was mostly contested on sand routes. I'm trying to maintain maximum concentration. The crash I had yesterday left me a little on alert and so I want to manage the race so as not to make mistakes. Above all, I don't want to waste everything and I have to avoid deconcentration. Today I got my motorbike stuck in a dune, early in the day, but I managed to resolve the situation well. In the last 100km the track was more to my liking and then I set a good pace. At the end of the special I came across a very difficult navigation note and lost some time. But, I managed the day well and I'm feeling good. I didn't fall, the bike is impeccable and Bruno has been tireless in maintaining the bike. Tomorrow the stage will be hard and long and we begin the countdown to the end of the race”, reported António Maio upon arrival at the bivouac installed in Hail.
The ninth stage of the Rai Dakar 2024 takes place tomorrow. This involves a total of 639km completed between Hail and Al Ula, of which 417km will be run against the clock. On this day, riders will have little time to enjoy the magnificent landscapes of this stage that will take them to the limit. The trails will alternate between fast and slow as the special progresses. The confidence and skill of the competitors will be very important to find the right rhythm on the rocky plateaus.
Automatic translation of the original Portuguese version available on www.todoterreno.pt
Source: Antonio Maio's official press release
Disclaimer:
As a service to the sport we all love and follow, Rally-Raid Network posts numerous media releases from a wide variety of sources on our website. Due to the large number, and some times short time available, it is nearly impossible to review each public release. These articles are written by reporters or press officers who work for various organizers, teams, drivers, riders, and other parties, and they do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rally-Raid Network.
