Dakar Rally stage 2: Loeb shows class to win first stage in Argentina

Legend Loeb won the second stage in three hours, 45mins and 46sec despite the stage being shortened due to overnight rain in 387km stage between Villa Carlos Paz and Termas de Rio Hondo in Argentina.

"It was tricky out there and I'm happy we came through okay. I'm a little surprised to have clocked the best time of the day," said Loeb.

"We got lucky on a muddy section where several others ran into trouble. The car is good, up to the job, especially on these narrow winding roads.

"We'll be first out tomorrow (Tuesday) and that'll make things easier for us."

Fellow Frenchman Stephane Peterhansel was second finishing 2min 30sec behind while Russian Vladimir Vasilyev was third in a Toyota.