MADRID, Jan. 5 (.) –
The Spanish driver Laia Sanz managed to finish the fifth stage of the 2023 Dakar Rally at the wee hours, after suffering a spectacular accident with which her car rolled five times in a mishap that occurred 28 kilometers after taking the start.
After repairing the vehicle with the help of the ASTARA team, the Corbera de Llobregat rider continued to cross the finish line in 132nd position, 11 hours, 20 minutes and 49 seconds after the start of the test. “We were going well and, suddenly, on a straight line, we began to roll over. Perhaps we have loosened a wheel, because we do not understand what has happened,” said the KH-7 pilot.
Laia Sanz also wanted to have a few words of gratitude for the members of the ASTARA team who made it possible for her to continue. “I want to thank Sergio Vallejo and Mario González for stopping to help us and accompanying us throughout the special, and also to the assistance truck, who have done a super job repairing the damage,” she said.
The Catalan, who on the eve achieved an encouraging 20th overall position and third in the 4×2 category, her best result on four wheels, saw her progress halted sharply in what is considered the toughest rally in the world.
