Price is right for Australian despite third place finish - Dakar Rally 2016

Price sees his lead stand at 23 minutes over Svitko overall, despite the Slovakian KTM rider winning his first event and closing the lead by six minutes. Portuguese rider Paulo Goncalves ran into some trouble during the event, having to be towed after a tree branch caused significant damage to his bike’s radiator. Goncalves managed to finish after some quick repairs fourth in the overall stage, still holding on to third overall in the tournament. Price spoke about the expectation weighing on his shoulders and heading into the final few days of the event in front. “I’ve got some margin, but no guarantee. Anything can happen, I’ve got to continue working. I must avoid any mistakes or missing waypoints.

“What’s important is to be in good shape and ready to kick it up a notch if necessary.” Stage 11 tomorrow between La Rioja and San Juan is another off-road challenge, filled with sand traps and open valleys. Contestants head into the day knowing it can make or break their run at the overall event.