VW Dakar Team News Thread

[phaeton]

Discussions can also be done here http://www.germancarzone.com/showthread.php?t=8483 (Official Dakar 2007 Thread)

-constantly updated


01 January 2007
VOLKSWAGEN AT THE “DAKAR”: ROUTE AND REGULATION CHANGES

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen factory team starts the Dakar Rally on 6 January with four Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 prototypes and 26 officially registered service and support vehicles.
When the 187 participants in the car class, including Volkswagen factory drivers Mark Miller, Giniel de Villiers, Ari Vatanen and Carlos Sainz, set off from Lisbon on the near 8000 kilometre journey to the Senegalese capital Dakar, they must prepare themselves for several changes made to the route and regulations. The 64-page regulations for the sixteen day cross country classic do not, however, only concern the competition vehicles but also regulate the use of the 240 vehicles in the supporting armada.

Route shortened

The event organisation ASO has changed the route at short notice. Due to a warning from the French Foreign Ministry the stages between Nema – Timbuktu and Timbuktu – Nema, originally scheduled to be held on 16 and 17 January, have been cancelled for safety reasons. Instead, a 366 kilometre loop around Nema will be completed on 16 January. A single 280 kilometre liaison stage is on the following day's agenda. "It's very important to take safety issues into consideration. From the sporting point of view it's a shame, since one of the two marathon stages and a day of competition are dropped, and the rally is shorter and therefore the pressure greater as a result”, says Volkswagen co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz. The overall distance falls to 7,915 kilometres, which equates to 4,309 competitive kilometres, because of the changes.

Lac Rose in Senegal resumes ‘final stage' status

The "Lac Rose Grand Prix” was originally intended to be held as a show stage on the final day of the Dakar Rally. At short notice, the organisers have shortened the traditional stage along the shores of Lac Rose, scheduled for 21 January, to 16 kilometres and reinstated it as official stage. "A marvellous decision”, explains Giniel de Villiers, 2006 "Dakar” runner-up. "The stage at Lac Rose is the Dakar Rally's traditional finale – and it's great that it will also count towards the rally result.”

New navigation assistant

Additional ‘way points' given on extremely difficult off-road stages should help competitors with navigation in 2007. In addition to the ‘Hidden Way Points' (WPM), visible way points (WPE – Waypoint Eclipse) are assigned for the first time during the 2007 Dakar Rally. In contrast to the hidden way points, which only appear in the GPS System when a vehicle closes to within three kilometres, the direction of a Waypoint Eclipse is already displayed on the GPS screen when the Volkswagen factory drivers and their competitors close to within 200 metres of the previous way point. "A good decision”, explains Volkswagen factory co-driver and three-time "Dakar” winner Michel Périn. "As a result, competitors will be prevented from driving around in circles in the desert due to ambiguities in the road book.”

Spectator and team safety increased

The safety precautions for spectators and African locals are improved for the 2007 Dakar Rally. A wide-ranging public information campaign in the local media should better prepare the people along the near 8,000 kilometre route for the rally armada and general increase in traffic. The local Police play a more important role in monitoring and policing the traffic regulations. "We welcome the fact that the organisers have undertaken additional measures to further increase safety for the rally spectators, competitors and service armada”, explains Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen.

Severe penalties for speeders

The speed limit of 50 and, in part, 30 km/h for rally cars in built-up areas and villages exists for years – and also applies on official stages. Violations are punished with severe fines and even time penalties. Repeat offenders are threatened with exclusion from the competition. The speed limits for support vehicles outside built-up areas are further reduced in 2007: A maximum speed of 120 is valid for Service Cars; Service-Trucks are not allowed to exceed 90 km/h. The Race-Trucks entered in the truck classification are allowed to attain a maximum speed of 150 km/h. Support vehicles violating the limits are also given severe penalties: First time offenders still have to pay 500 Euro for exceeding the speed limits by between 0 and 20 km/h, a second offence is punished by the service vehicle being confiscated till the following day – and the spare parts on board can also not be used. Exclusion from the rally threatens repeat offenders. The fines collected during the Dakar Rally have been donated to charity for years.

[phaeton]

02 January 2007
THE VOLKSWAGEN FACTORY TEAM: EIGHT COMPETITIVE SPIRITS, ONE AIM

WOLFSBURG, Germany - Two Rally World Champions, one of the most successful Cross Country Rally co-drivers, the most successful woman in rallying and a 15-time Enduro Champion – the Volkswagen factory team is an interesting cocktail of fascinating personalities and seven nations.

The Volkswagen factory drivers Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/South Africa), Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (Spain/France), Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (Finland/Italy) and Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany) have a common goal: They want to fight together as a team for victory for Volkswagen in the Dakar Rally, the toughest and most famous cross country rally (6 to 21 January). "We have a strong team of experienced and highly-motivated drivers” explains Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen. "The team spirit is extremely strong, all eight drivers and co-drivers work well together.”

Ari Vatanen – EU delegate, family father and four-time "Dakar” winner

The former Rally World Champion Ari Vatanen bolsters the Volkswagen team since September 2006. "To be able to compete for Volkswagen in the Dakar Rally is a dream come true”, explains the 54-year old Finn. With four wins to his credit, he is one of the most successful drivers ever to appear in the marathon classic. Vatanen, who lives with his wife Rita in the Provence in France, jumps between his rally and test commitments and his duties as EU delegate. "Since I don't compete in many rallies each year, I can dovetail both responsibilities very easily”, he explains. Vatanen was one of the big stars during the 1980s in the World Rally Championship. He was forced to make an 18 month break following a severe accident in the 1985 Argentinean Rally and made his comeback by starting a new career in cross country rallying. "I feel like an artist, I can choreograph my life in motorsport as I want. I could never imagine having an office job”, explains the father of four grown sons and daughters.

Carlos Sainz – World Champion and record winner in World Rally Championship

When Ari Vatanen won the Rally World Championship in 1981, his current team mate Carlos Sainz was just starting his career. Like Vatanen, the Spaniard also celebrated many great victories in the World Rally Championship – he was Rally World Champion in 1990 and 1992. With his 25 victories "El Matador”, as his admiring fans call him, held the record for the most wins till the middle of 2006. However, Sainz, who swapped to cross country rallying in 2005, is not only a rally driver, but also a thoroughbred sportsman: He was Spanish Squash Champion in his youth, played football successfully and was also successful in circuit racing. The father of two daughters and a son remained loyal to the beautiful game – in his hometown Madrid he is still involved with the Real Madrid football club. In addition, he follows the fledging kart career of his son Carlos.

Michel Périn – precise right-hand man

With 23 wins in only 47 events – including three Dakar Rally wins – the Frenchman Michel Périn is one of the most successful co-drivers in cross country rallying. Like Carlos Sainz and Ari Vatanen, Périn also originates from the World Rally Championship where he acted as co-driver and team manager. The 49-year old rally professional's strengths: His precision and meticulous preparation brought him five titles in the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup. Périn is often the subject of amusement and deep admiration from colleagues and journalists alike as he prepares his road book in minute detail the evening before the following stage. "I was interested in geography and maps as well as motorsport as a child. As co-driver I can unite my two interests. However, I've never dreamed of driving myself”, explains Périn, whose partner Marie-Christine also worked as a rally co-driver earlier.

Fabrizia Pons – outstanding co-driver

She is inconspicuous and professional – and with five victories in the Word Rally Championship the most successful woman in modern rallying. The Italian Fabrizia Pons earned her reputation in the 1980s as co-driver for rally legend Michèle Mouton. However, since making her cross country rallying debut in 1995 the 51-year old professional co-driver has forged a successful career. She recorded two overall wins in desert rallies together with her current driver in 1995. "It's simply wonderful to be working with Ari again”, said Pons excitedly, when she once again formed a team with Vatanen in autumn 2006. The Turin based Italian has a diverse range of hobbies and interests away from the cockpit: She loves swimming and skiing, and sings soprano in a choir. But she has a soft spot for animals. "I love all animals and have three cats, a hamster and a goldfish myself", explains Pons. "If I hadn't got involved in motorsport I would have perhaps studied veterinary medicine.”

Dirk von Zitzewitz – career on two and four wheels

"I dreamt of becoming a racing driver when I was a small child", explains the 38-year old Dirk von Zitzewitz. The co-driver to South African Giniel de Villiers contests his fourth Dakar Rally in the car classification. However, Dirk von Zitzewitz started his career on two wheels: He was German Enduro Champion 15 times, and finished fifth in the motorbike classification in his first Dakar Rally. In 2002, he made his debut as co-driver – and tasted success on four wheels immediately. "As motorbike ride you learn to read the lie of the land”, believes Dirk von Zitzewitz. "And this helps me today in my job as co-driver.” Dirk von Zitzewitz also studied architecture like his team mate Fabrizia Pons. "But I quickly decided to pursue a career in professional motorsport – and never regretted it”, he says looking back. "I love cross country rallies because the challenges are so varied, you have to produce a top performance over the course of many days, react to the circumstances and also often improvise.” Dirk von Zitzewitz, who lives only a few kilometres from the Baltic Sea, spends his spare time with his wife Sabine and Labrador Hugo. "I feel at home in north Germany. It's important to me that the sea is close by.”

Mark Miller – from racer to investment manager and back

The American Mark Miller is a man of principals: In his youth he sacrificed a promising enduro career to concentrate on his studies. The successful investment manager later traced the path in reverse and withdrew step by step from the investment business over the last few years to devote his entire energy to his motorsport career as Volkswagen factory driver. Miller is just as uncompromising in his personal fitness programme and works together with a personal trainer in the USA. The success speaks volumes: On his "Dakar” debut in 2002 he won a ‘one make cup' together with former his co-driver at that time Dirk von Zitzewitz. Miller also started his career on two-wheels, and later recorded a class victory in the famous "Baja 1000” off-road rally in the USA. As Volkswagen factory driver in 2006 he finished fifth in the "Dakar” with Dirk von Zitzewitz as "Co”.

Ralph Pitchford – newcomer at Volkswagen, experienced in the desert

The South African Ralph Pitchford is a perfect example of the career opportunities available in cross country rallying: The 44-year old co-driver for Mark Miller began his career working as a mechanic for various motorbike teams and also competed in enduro races in his spare time. Later he also worked on rally cars. "A co-driver withdrew at short notice and I got my chance”, he explains. On his "Dakar” debut in 2006 he guided his driver to 15th overall. "I love cross country rallies, especially the people and the informal atmosphere.” Pitchford encounters a row of old acquaintances in the Volkswagen factory team: He has been a friend of both Mark Miller and Dirk von Zitzewitz since his days as active motorbike rider. Pitchford remained true to his two-wheel routes: In his spare time he organises enduro tours through South Africa's fascinating landscape.

Giniel de Villiers – from touring car star to cross country professional

The South African Giniel de Villiers also started his career in another discipline: The 34-year old motorsport professional contested his first touring car race in 1993. He was South African Touring Car Champion five times, before making a successful jump to cross country rallying in 2000. In 2006, he finished second in the Race Touareg – the greatest success to date for a diesel powered vehicle in the Dakar Rally. de Villiers and co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz number among the favourites in 2007. "I think I'm addicted to adrenalin", he laughs. "I can't imagine anything other than a career in motorsport for me.” de Villiers is strong ties with his home, the Stellenbosch wine region in South Africa. He describes himself as an "outdoor type”. His hobbies fit such a description: Off-road motorbikes and golf, he also competes in mountain bike races. The fascination of cross country rallying: "We get to know places that you would normally never see, and I love the desert." The "Dakar” suits him: The drivers trek through the wilderness and sleep in tents beneath the starry African night sky for two long weeks.

[phaeton]

03 January 2007
KRIS NISSEN: “THE DAKAR RALLY IS AN ENORMOUS CHALLENGE”

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The team under Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen starts the near 8,000 kilometre long Dakar Rally with four Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 prototypes driven by Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/South Africa), Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (Spain/France), Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (Finland/Italy) and Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (South Africa/Germany).
In the interview, Kris Nissen explains which targets Volkswagen has, and which development steps were made to the Race Touareg 2, and the fascination of the world's longest and toughest rally that starts on 6 January in Lisbon (Portugal) and finishes in Dakar (Senegal) on 21 January.

Kris Nissen, what targets have you set your team for the 2007 Dakar Rally?
"We want to be the first to win this long and tough rally with a Diesel powered vehicle. We came close to winning last year with the Volkswagen Race Touareg 2. We have worked extremely hard since then and have improved even further.”

Four rallies in the FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup, in which two wins and a second place were scored. How would you sum up these preparations?
"We tested extensively in 2006, and took in an additional four rallies as competitive preparation for the forthcoming Dakar Rally. We are well equipped for the start because we completed many thousands of kilometres in the toughest of conditions.”

Which strategy did you pursue when selecting the Volkswagen factory drivers?
"We wanted a mix of drivers and co-drivers who possess not only speed and will to win, but also maturity and experience. We achieved these targets with our squad. A driver's age is not as crucial in cross country rallying as it is on other motorsport disciplines. There are drivers who are very fast at 45 or 55 years of age. Actually, what is required during the Dakar Rally is a mixture of driving quickly, car control and reading the lie of the land.”

In which areas was the Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 further developed?
"The new four-valve Diesel engine produces a little more power and torque over a wider range and is, in general, more drivable which eases driving over difficult terrain. We also optimised the gearbox. We also made a step forwards with the suspension development together with our new partner ZF Sachs.”

What is the fascination of the "Dakar” for?
"During such a long race every cog in the works must mesh perfectly, otherwise you have no chance of winning. And even if a team has prepared meticulously there is absolutely no guarantee of success. In other motorsport disciplines it is possible to improve the car from weekend to weekend and then be successful. The moment the three-week Dakar Rally has begun there is no chance of changing anything on the car or with the organisation or logistics. That's why every team member must do a perfect job each and every day. The Dakar Rally is an enormous challenge.”

How do you rate your team?
"I believe that we are even stronger than last year. In 2006 we had handling difficulties in soft sand, which we identified and solved after implementing the necessary modifications. I think that we are at the same level as our main rival Mitsubishi, which has paved the way in cross country rallying over the last few years. However, both the X-Raid BMW and the Buggy from Jean-Louis Schlesser should not be underestimated. It'll be a tough battle and extremely exciting for every team involved.”

Has the strategy for the 2007 "Dakar” changed?
"In previous years it was possible to win by adapting the wait-and-see policy, a tactically cautious approach. However, in 2007 this is definitely not possible and every team, including those of our rivals, must attack at 100 percent from the beginning to win. I expect an even quicker pace this year, which will make great demands of car, driver and co-driver.”

What does Volkswagen's involvement in the Dakar Rally mean for the brand?"Motorsport is a very effective marketing instrument and the Dakar Rally in particular creates enormous interest around the world. There are daily reports about the ‘Dakar' on television in approximately 180 countries. This is an excellent platform from which to demonstrate Volkswagen's technical expertise.”

How great is the know-how transfer from the "Dakar” rally to production car, for example in the development of TDI-Technology?
"We worked very closely with the technicians and engineers from the Volkswagen Technical Development department during the Race Touareg development. The exchange of information is made in both directions. Both departments have shown enormous powers of innovation in the engine field.”

[Yannis]

Great idea to start this thread Ben.

I hope VW wins this year.

[phaeton]

Live "Dakar" action up close @ volkswagen-motorsport.com

8,000 tough rally kilometres across Southern Europe and Africa – and everybody can follow the Volkswagen factory team live and up close throughout the Dakar Rally: The Internet portal www.volkswagen-motorsport.com is dedicated with immediate effect to the desert classic.

The Volkswagen Motorsport website presents extensive coverage of the legendary desert rally including real-time results, the day’s latest television footage, breaking news, comments from the Volkswagen team, interesting background information and much more.

Satellite supported technology delivers results in real time

On Saturday, 6 January in Lisbon (Portugal) when the 29th edition of the famous Dakar Rally starts, the so-called "IriTrack” system is available free-of-charge to every visitor of the www.volkswagen-motorsport.com website. The satellite supported technology shows the position of each Volkswagen Race Touareg during every stage in real-time, and also gives information about the start, intermediate and total times. This allows visitors to comfortably follow events as they unfold, and see which team is in front at the finish on 21 January in Dakar (Senegal). The IriTrack-System is available, just like the complete website, in the German, English, and French languages and requires the free-of-charge Adobe Flash Player (www.adobe.com).

The best action scenes before they appear on television

"Dakar TV” in the Internet: The first motion pictures of the Dakar Rally are broadcast every day around 21:00 by www.volkswagen-motorsport.com in a daily-review and background magazine. The daily-review screens the day’s best action pictures, summarises the sporting events and highlights the leader board. The magazine looks behind the scenes of this cross country classic and captures the atmosphere in the bivouac. The three minute films are available in German and English. The Adobe Flash Player is also required to play them.

Huge Internet coverage of "Dakar”

The Volkswagen websites www.volkswagen.com and those edited for children and youths www.volkswagen-kinderleicht.de and www.volkswagen-startklar.de offer a full programme including multimedia-specials, an online-game, competitions and background articles about the world’s longest and toughest rally. Information from the event organiser ASO can be found at www.dakar.com.

[phaeton]

AFTER SCRUTINEERING IN LISBON: VOLKSWAGEN TEAM “READY TO GO”

WOLFSBURG, Germany - Ready to go for Dakar Rally: On Thursday in Lisbon, the Volkswagen factory team completed technical and administrative scrutineering for the desert classic with the four Race Touareg 2 prototypes and all 26 service and support vehicles registered for the rally.
The final roll-out was scheduled for the team a day earlier. Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen and the four Volkswagen factory team duos Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA), Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F), Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (FIN/I) and Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (RSA/D) now look expectantly and confidently towards the near 8,000 kilometre long rally. The "Dakar” begins on Saturday, 6 January with a 117 kilometre stage south of Lisbon and ends on 21 January in Dakar, Senegal. In 2006, Volkswagen finished second with Giniel de Villiers and in doing so celebrated the best ever position for a diesel vehicle in the rally's history.

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"We are ready for the 2007 Dakar Rally. We also know that we have improved. We have optimised the logistics, the drivers and co-drivers work better together and the Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 has been logically developed. We've incorporated many of the drivers' and co-drivers' suggestions in the vehicles. If we could improve our result from last year by just one position we'd really be very satisfied.”

# 301 – Giniel de Villiers (RSA)
"I'm delighted that the rally is finally going to start. The team has worked intensively over the last few months, but we also need a good portion of luck in the next two weeks. The rally will be tough, and the competition is very strong. We'll attempt to exert as much pressure as possible on our main rival Mitsubishi. Obviously the expectations are very high after our second place in 2006 – after all, everybody in the Volkswagen team wants to se a blue car in front at the end.”

# 301 – Dirk von Zitzewitz (D) – co-driver
"We've tested intensively and competed in World Cup rallies to be well equipped for this event. I expect the pace to be very high, and the smallest mistakes will be brutally punished as a result. This is a real challenge. One of the team's strengths is that the entire team is very hungry for victory."

# 303 – Carlos Sainz (E)
"This is my second ‘Dakar'. Although I have more experience in the desert now, I'm still a rookie in this sport. After having led for the first two days in 2006, I'd like to clinch a good starting position for the first African leg after the stages in Portugal.”


# 303 – Michel Périn (F) – co-driver
"It's great to compete for such a professional and motivated team like Volkswagen. Even though there is a long list of strong competitors, my greatest rivals are myself and the desert – because it is easy for a co-driver to make mistakes. I undertook a rigorous fitness programme over the last few months. I've also worked about four hours every day on my maps to prepare myself better for the route."

#305 – Mark Miller (USA)
"My goal is to win the 2007 ‘Dakar'. Our final test in Tunisia was very encouraging, the car is quicker and the suspension, brakes and engine are better. The Race Touareg 2 is a dream to drive. However, the 2007 Dakar Rally will be difficult since every good driver also sits in a good car. I'm convinced that this year's field of starters is best in the event's history. If you are going to win a ‘Dakar' then you should choose this one. I've never been so focused on a specific target as this year."

# 305 – Ralph Pitchford (RSA) – co-driver
"I make my debut with the Volkswagen Motorsport team this year. The opposition is very strong, but the competition within the team will also be exciting particularly as Volkswagen has four good drivers. I've done an intensive amount of mental preparation for this rally to be able to master the long challenge as well as possible. I'm driving with Mark Miller for the first time; I spent a lot of time in the car with him during the test. We work well together. Mark is highly motivated. I'm looking forward to the next fortnight together in the car.”

# 308 – Ari Vatanen (FIN)
"There's an electric atmosphere. The Dakar Rally is a huge event; the technical scrutineering in Lisbon was visited by huge crowds. I'm pleased that the event is about to start after the long period of preparation. I'm expecting a fantastic atmosphere during the first two Portuguese stages. There are definitely many spectators lining the route. From the sporting point of view, it's easier to lose much more than you can win in the first two days. The real ‘Dakar' starts in Morocco.”

# 308 – Fabrizia Pons (I) – co-driver
"I can hardly wait for the start. I'm looking forward to contesting the Dakar Rally alongside Ari Vatanen for the first time. Our tactics will be to get through without problems and without tyre failures – because at the finish you should be in a good position. I feel well prepared as I've worked a great deal on maps and navigation material in the last few months.”

Public website covering Volkswagen's Dakar event: www.volkswagen-motorsport.com

[phaeton]

Volkswagen occupies the first five positions on the leader board after the Dakar Rally’s opening stage.

The opening day’s stage in Portugal was won by local matador Carlos Sousa with his German co-driver Andreas Schulz in a Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 entered by Lagos Team. Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz finished second for Volkswagen in a Race Touareg 2 on the 464 kilometre long stage from Lisbon to Portimao. The hoards of spectators lining the sandy stage witnessed an exciting tussle for third place: Carlos Sainz with co-driver Michel Périn and Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons recorded identical times at the stage finish. Fifth place went to Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford in another Volkswagen Race Touareg 2. Only 3:56 minutes separate the first five drivers, the closest rival – Guerlain Chicherit in a BMW X3 – trails by another minute.

The successful opening day continues a trend for Volkswagen: Now, for the third year in succession a Race Touareg driver tops the leader board to start the world’s toughest desert rally on the way to Dakar. Carlos Sainz led the field last year at the beginning, and a year before Robby Gordon did just that. The Volkswagen Touareg has now recorded its 42nd stage victory and 37th day leading the field since its rally career started in 2004.

Snippets from Volkswagen bivouac

- Media bustle around Volkswagen factory drivers: The Volkswagen drivers were in the spotlight before the start of the Dakar Rally. Ari Vatanen, Carlos Sainz, Mark Miller and Giniel de Villiers and their co-drivers used the days leading to the start of the cross country classic to give interviews, and posed for photographs at technical scrutineering before signing autographs for employees from the Volkswagen factory "Autoeuropa” and met guests of the Volkswagen importers for informal chats. After the start in Lisbon the four Volkswagen duos concentrate solely on rally events.

- Lisbon retains start location status: The Dakar Rally started from Lisbon for the second time. Like the debut year, in 2007 the technical and administrative scrutineering on Thursday was also extremely well attended. The ‘Dakar’ will again start in Lisbon in 2008. Portugal’s Sport Minister Pedro Silva Pereira emphasised the interest of his country to extend the cooperation beyond 2008.

- Farewell colleagues: The Volkswagen factory team must bid farewell after the stages held on the Iberian Peninsula. The ten ‘European Group’ employees, who supported the team before the start, return to Germany in the evening. The remaining group also splits-up: While the factory drivers and their race engineers stay overnight in Portimão on the Algarve, the majority of the 78-head team set-off for Algeciras, from where the ferry for the support Armada sets sail to Africa.


Three questions to Volkswagen factory driver Carlos Sainz

This is your second Dakar Rally start, how do you feel?
"I drove a lot of tests last season and competed in three Cross Country Rally World Cup events. Especially since starting the UAE Desert Challenge, where we were able to win three stages, I feel that I’ve collected a great deal of experience on sand and in the desert. However, the ‘Dakar’ is tough and when compared to drivers like Ari Vatanen I’m a relative newcomer in this sport.”

You were able to win the opening stages in Portugal last year. Is the pressure greater now as a result?
"It's a completely different ball game this year. The stages are completely different this year, which is why we couldn’t draw on much of last year’s information. In general, however, both of the opening stages suit me because they are typical rally stages.”

Do you go to the limit on these stages?
"No, since you stand to lose much more than you can win on these short stages. It’s important for me to get through these relatively short Portuguese stages without problems. At the end of the day, the only thing that counts is the result after crossing the finish line in Dakar after two weeks of rallying. Also, it’s not possible to drive on the limit when you have to follow a road book without notes.”

Standings after stage 1, Lisbon (P) – Portimão (P); 117/464 km stage 1/total

Pos. Team Vehicle Stage 1 Total time
1. Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (P/D) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h20m38s (1st) 1h20m38s
2. Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (RSA/D) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h23m09s (2nd) + 2m31s
3. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h23m16s (3rd) + 2m38s
4. Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (FIN/I) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h23m16s (4th) + 2m38s
5. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h24m34s (5th) + 3m56s
6. Guerlain Chicherit/Matthieu Baumel (F/F) BMW X3 1h25m30s (6th) + 4m52s
7. Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz Senra (E/E) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 1h25m31s (7th) + 4m53s
8. Stéphane Peterhansel/Jean-P. Cottret (F/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 1h25m55s (8th) + 5m17s
9. Nasser Al-Attiyah/Alain Guehennec (QT/F) BMW X3 1h26m38s (9th) + 6m00s
10. Hiroshi Masuoka/Pascal Maimon (J/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 1h27m54s (10th) + 7m16s

Coming up…

Sunday, 7 January: Stage 2, Portimão (P) – Malaga (E): 67 km stage/545 km total. The route follows a hard track through the mountains. The drivers must look after their cars on this typical World Rally Championship type stage, because the time allowed for servicing is short: A long liaison stage to Malaga is on the agenda in the afternoon, from where the competition vehicles will catch the ferry to Nador in Morocco.

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Team quotes

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"I’m delighted with the excellent team result – our package looks good. Just like in 2005 and 2006, we are at the front to begin, but nobody should forget that the rally is almost 8,000 kilometres long. It’s also important that everybody continues to work perfectly each and every day. It wasn't easy today, because the route information for the opening stage wasn't correct. The fuel consumption climbed dramatically because the tracks were much softer than expected. It was touch-and-go up to the first service point, which is why the fuel reserve in the tanks on the cars was used up.”

#301 – Giniel de Villiers (RSA), 2nd place (leg) / 2nd position overall
"This stage was surprisingly difficult. The track was very sandy and much ruttier than you’d expect in Europe. We overtook Luc Alphand relatively early. The track was lined by trees and there were loads of spectators along the route, so we didn’t take any risks and are satisfied with second place.”

#303 – Carlos Sainz (E), 3rd place (leg) / 3rd position overall
"For me, the subsoil felt much softer today than the sandy tracks did last time in Dubai! The track was narrow which is why it was a problem to overtake the motorcyclists. You had to sit tight and wait for a good opportunity to pass. My time is okay. I expect an entirely different, much harder surface on the second stage in the mountains.”

#305 – Mark Miller (USA), 5th place (leg) / 5th position overall
"That was a fantastic stage. The spectators lined the track in a ‘guard of honour’ for 40 kilometres. I didn’t take any risks on this incredible day and drove very precisely. I expect tracks with very little grip on the second stage through the mountains. I also won’t take any risks there. I’ll be perfectly satisfied to start the first stage in Africa in the top ten.”

#308 – Ari Vatanen (FIN), 4th place (leg) / 4th position overall
"I’m very satisfied to have recorded exactly the same time as Carlos Sainz. It was an excellent opening for my co-driver Fabrizia and I. As expected the Race Touareg ran like clockwork. However, because the track was much softer than expected we actually used the fuel reserve we’d been carrying.”

[phaeton]

After the two European legs of the Dakar Rally Volkswagen will be starting as the leading team in Africa on Monday.

Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn in their Volkswagen Race Touareg celebrated their first stage victory in the 545-kilometre special stage leading from Portimaõ to Malaga, ahead of Nani Roma and Luc Alphand (both Mitsubishi). It was the second stage victory for Volkswagen following the success claimed by Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz in a Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 from Team Lagos the day before, and the Race Touareg’s 43rd stage victory since 2004. The Portuguese Carlos Sousa continues to lead the rally, while Sainz improved to second place overall in this demanding special stage. Tight corners along deep abysses and difficult stretches through the mountains marked the second competition day of the 8,000-kilometre desert classic.

The runner-up in last year’s "Dakar”, Giniel de Villiers, and his co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz completed the Volkswagen trio at the top of the leader board after a no-risk drive that saw them finish the stage in sixth place. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford follow in position seven overall. A major loss of time was suffered by Ari Vatanen: the four-time "Dakar" winner from Finland made a driving mistake while running through water that cost him more than an hour and a half. Despite this mishap, Vatanen finished on his own strength.

Snippets from the Volkswagen bivouac

- Rally moves to Africa: After the two special stages in Portugal the Dakar Rally participants are now on their way to Africa. For the passage, the organisers chartered seven ferries carrying the support teams – including the 23 supporting vehicles of the Volkswagen factory team that are sent from Algeciras to Tangier. Meanwhile, on Sunday evening, the four Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 vehicles and the team’s three race-trucks are taking the night ferry from Malaga to Nador where the first African stage is scheduled to start on Monday morning.

- Journalists in the Touareg: A total of 146 journalists are observing the Dakar Rally from the start in Portugal all the way to the finish in Senegal. In addition to the 56 media representatives travelling on the aircraft of the organiser, ASO, from one bivouac to the other, 36 press cars with altogether 110 reporters have been deployed. Among others, the toughest cross-country rally includes three Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI vehicles – each accommodating three journalists and their luggage – providing safe and comfortable transportation across the distance covering a total of 8,000 kilometres.


Three questions to Carlos Sousa (Team Lagos)

As the local hero, you did fulfil the expectations of your home audience, didn’t you?
"It’s great competing in front of such a superb backdrop and, what’s more, to be leading the Dakar Rally. For Portugal, this important rally is very significant. It’s the first time that I’m competing in this desert classic with Team Lagos and the entering team headed by Phoenix’ team boss Ernst Moser in a Volkswagen Race Touareg that is simply fantastic.”

What is the strategy you used for these special stages?
"On the first stage my German co-driver Andreas Schulz and I of course gave our best. When we were running in front with such a clear advantage a real euphoria erupted. We even needed to restrain ourselves a bit in order to keep from overdoing things on the second leg.”

What are your plans for the upcoming stages in Africa?
"We’ve got an ideal starting base: we’re running in front of the overall standings, but don’t have to start on the first stage in Morocco as the first team. With regard to navigating, the fact that we’re only the ninth car to start the stage and don’t have to open the course is probably a major advantage.”


Standings after stage 2, Portimao (P) – Malaga (E); 67/545 km stage 2/total

Pos. Team Vehicle Stage 1 Total time
1. Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (P/D) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h01m19s (9th) 2h21m57s
2. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 59m26s (1st) + 45s
3. Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (RSA/D) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h01m00s (6th) + 2m12s
4. Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz Senra (E/E) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 59m55s (2nd) + 3m29s
5. Stéphane Peterhansel/Jean-P. Cottret (F/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 59m57s (4th) + 3m55s
6. Guerlain Chicherit/Matthieu Baumel (F/F) BMW X3 1h01m16s (8th) + 4m49s
7. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 1h03m50s (14th) + 6m27s
8. Hiroshi Masuoka/Pascal Maimon (J/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 1h00m50s (5th) + 6m47s
9. Nasser Al-Attiyah/Alain Guehennec (QT/F) BMW X3 1h03m52s (15th) + 8m33s
10. Christian Lavieille/François Borsotto (F/F) Nissan Pick-up 1h02m32s (10th) + 9m24s
113. Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (FIN/I) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 2h35m55s + 1h37m14s


Coming up…

Monday, 8 January: Stage 3, Nador (MR) – Er Rachidia (MR): 252 km stage/648 km total. The first African leg is also a very challenging one: Many directional changes on the rough stretches in the north of Morocco make navigation more difficult. In the evening the first overnight in the bivouac on the airfield in Er Rachidia is on the agenda.


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Team quotes

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"We’ve had a relatively good day today. The second stage victory of a Volkswagen is perfect, while Mitsubishi – as expected – made up some ground. Three Volkswagen cars continue as the front runners. Whereas during the first leg on soft sand intuitive driving was of the essence, the second leg in the mountains challenged the drivers at low speeds. While driving through a water passage that was handled by all the other drivers and vehicles without any problem, Ari made a mistake. Unfortunately this cost him over an hour and a half, but the rally is still long.”

#301 – Giniel de Villiers (RSA), 6th place (leg) / 3rd place overall
"This was a very big challenge. There were deep abysses galore as well as obscured bends. We were going at quite a nice pace and are happy with the result because it means we don’t need to open the course in Africa. Starting with the stages in Africa, Dirk, my co-driver, will really be put to the test as well.”

#303 – Carlos Sainz (E), 1st place (leg) / 2nd place overall
"I’m happy about having completed the European legs in Portugal and Spain so flawlessly. The stage in the mountains was tight and twisty. It suited me very well although I wouldn’t compare it with the special stages with which I’m familiar from the World Rally Championship – so I didn’t necessarily have any advantage.”

#305 – Mark Miller (USA), 14th place (leg) / 7th place overall
"The rally is huge fun already. The day was difficult and a special stage in the mountains certainly isn’t my forte.”

#308 – Ari Vatanen (FIN), 113th place overall
"I made a mistake today: I went into a deep water passage too quickly, which caused water to enter the engine compartment. After that, we changed the air filter, had to check several technical details and, ultimately, finished the stage on our own strength.”

[phaeton]

Volkswagen factory driver Carlos Sainz has taken the lead of the Dakar Rally.

The Spaniard and his French co-driver Michel Périn took second place in the Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 on the third stage in Morocco from Nador to Er Rachidia. The Race Touareg was gifted its third stage victory by the South African Giniel de Villiers and his German co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz, who led the Sainz/Périn duo by 25 seconds across the line and Stéphane Peterhansel (Mitsubishi) by 3:18 minutes to vault to second place in the overall standings. Yesterday’s leader Carlos Sousa and his German co-driver Andy Schulz round off the one-two-three lead for Volkswagen in the overall classification.

The Volkswagen duo Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford improved from seventh to fifth overall. The Finn Ari Vatanen recorded the eleventh best time with his Italian co-driver Fabrizia Pons on the 648 kilometre stage. The Race Touareg remains unbeaten in this year’s running of the desert classic with three stage victories and as many days at the head of the leader board.

Snippets from Volkswagen bivouac

- Warning radar traps: The Volkswagen factory drivers and accompanying armada of support vehicles had to pay particular attention to their speeds on the near 1,150 kilometre journey from Portimão in Portugal to the first African bivouac in Er Rachidia in Morocco, because strict speed limits are imposed for safety reasons along the liaison stages and in built up areas during the Dakar Rally. To ensure that the stipulated speeds are maintained the organisers monitor speeds by GPS signal and the local police with radar guns. The organisers are merciless if speeds are exceeded; speeders in the support armada face harsh penalties including confiscation of the service vehicle in question. Registered competitors can even be given time penalties.

- Race Touareg 2 ready for Africa: After the two European stages finish the Volkswagen technicians prepare the four Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 prototypes for the African tracks and trails. The majority of the work centres on modifying the suspension set-up and adjusting the rally cars’ ground clearance to suit conditions.

- Home stage for factory team: The region around the Er Rachidia bivouac is not unknown to the big team competing in the Dakar Rally. Volkswagen and competitors Mitsubishi and BMW regularly undertake test sessions near Erfoud, which is about an hours drive south of Er Rachidia.

- Volkswagen factory drivers well rested: The Volkswagen factory drivers start the Dakar Rally’s first African stage relaxed and well prepared. "For the first time in years I was able to spend Christmas and New Year at home”, said co-driver Ralph Pitchford happily. Fabrizia Pons, Giniel de Villiers, Dirk von Zitzewitz and Carlos Sainz also spent Christmas at home with their families. In contrast, Mark Miller and Ari Vatanen and their wives celebrated New Year together in Portugal, where there met a rally fan who promptly invited the quartet to his wedding. "We just joined in the fun”, reports Vatanen.


Three questions to co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz

How would you describe the two Portuguese stages that opened the rally?
"The tracks were very physical for us, but also much tougher for the Race Touareg 2 than we had expected. We were well shaken in the deep sand and pot-holes. I actually thought that the start would be a little gentler on us.”

What specific tasks does the co-driver have on the Dakar Rally’s European stages?
"We attempted to help the drivers more as you would in a typical rally. Although arrows marked the turns and junctions, we read the information from the road book. Particularly as the signs were often placed just over a blind crest where the driver couldn’t see them, which is why the drivers needed urgent instructions. On the other hand, from today on we carry out classic navigation and send the driver the right way down the routes in Africa.”

How did you actually prepare for the rally?
"For a co-driver I undertook a very intensive fitness programme, which included time on a cross-trainer in the fitness studio and improved my stamina by jogging. I lost nine kilos to get down to my ‘fighting weight’. On the opening stages I noticed that it was well worth the effort, since the additional physical stress and strain didn’t affect me.”

Standings after stage 3, Nador (MA) – Er Rachidia (MA); 252/648 km stage 3/total

Pos. Team Vehicle Stage 3 Total time
1. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 2h46m37s (2nd) 5h09m19s
2. Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (RSA/D) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 2h46m12s (1st) + 1m02s
3. Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (P/D) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 2h51m48s (6th) + 4m26s
4. Stéphane Peterhansel/Jean-P. Cottret (F/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 2h49m30s (3rd) + 6m03s
5. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 2h50m07s (5th) + 9m12s
6. Hiroshi Masuoka/Pascal Maimon (J/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 2h51m52s (7th) + 11m17s
7. Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz Senra (E/E) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 2h55m30s (8th) + 11m37s
8. Luc Alphand/Gilles Picard (F/F) Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution 2h49m54s (4th) + 11m59s
9. Guerlain Chicherit/Matthieu Baumel (F/F) BMW X3 2h55m32s (9th) + 12m59s
10. Nasser Al-Attiyah/Alain Guehennec (QT/F) BMW X3 2h58m28s (10th) + 22m39s
57. Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (FIN/I) Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 2h59m03s (11th) + 1h48m55s



Coming up…

Tuesday, 9 January: Stage 4, Er Rachidia (MR) – Ouarzazate (MR): 405 km stage /679 km total. At 405 kilometres, the second stage in Morocco is genuine test of stamina. The route is varied – in part very fast, but also extremely tight and stony in other areas.

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Team quotes

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"We are very satisfied with the first day in Africa. I’m full of praise for Michel Périn and Carlos Sainz, who, despite being first into the stage, were still second on the day and took the overall lead. Giniel and Dirk clinched the third victory in as many days for us. The team also deserves a prize: It was so efficient that it was the first team to enter the bivouac and set-up up shop.”

#301 – Giniel de Villiers (RSA), 1st place (leg) / 2nd position overall
"A fantastic stage, but it was an incredibly tough day which was rewarded in the end with the stage victory! I had to overtake loads and loads of motorbikes but chose not to take any risks. I ran for a long time in a Mitsubishi’s dust cloud. I only managed to get by when the driver out-braked himself after about 130 kilometres. The route was very twisty and stony.”

#303 – Carlos Sainz (E), 2nd place (leg) / 1st position overall
"An absolutely perfect stage, everything ran well and Michel navigated superbly. I reckon I had to overtake about 160 motorbikes. The dense dust clouds didn’t make things any easier.”

#305 – Mark Miller (USA), 5th place (leg) / 5th position overall
"Since we only started from 14th place, the dust cloud in front was very dense. We barely noticed some bumps. These conditions cost us about five minutes up to the first time check point. As I was overtaking a Nissan the driver probably didn’t see me and he inadvertently touched the left hand side of the car.”


#308 – Ari Vatanen (FIN), 11th place (leg) / 57th position overall
"Because of our starting position we obviously had to fight through masses of dust, but I have no one to blame but myself for yesterday's result. We were stuck behind a competitor for around 130 kilometres and eventually finished eleventh in the day’s reckonings.”

[phaeton]

Volkswagen maintains its triple lead on the fourth day of the Dakar Rally: Factory driver Carlos Sainz expanded his advantage at the top by 53 seconds to 1.55 minutes on the leg from Er Rachidia to Ouarzazate in Morocco.

The Spaniard with his French co-driver Michel Périn set the third-best time on the 679-kilometre distance – the longest leg of the rally so far. Behind Jean-Louis Schlesser (France/Buggy) the Portuguese Carlos Sousa with German co-driver Andy Schulz at his side in the Race Touareg 2 of Team Lagos, prepared and fielded by Phoenix-Sport, finished as the best-placed Volkswagen duo of the day.

Behind Sainz/Périn and in front of Sousa/Schulz, Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz in the blue factory Touareg remain in second place of the overall classification. The South African-German pairing, who won yesterday’s special stage, achieved the fifth-best time in adverse conditions: thick vegetation of up to a metre and half in height inside a chott in the beginning forced the first team out on the course to stop three times to clear the radiator of grass. Mark Miller dropped from fifth to tenth position overall: The Volkswagen factory driver from the USA with his South African co-driver Ralph Pitchford lost 40 minutes on account of a damaged differential. Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons in the fourth Race Touareg fielded by the factory team finished the stage in eleventh place.

Standings after stage 4, Er Rachidia (MA) – Ouarzazate (MA); 405/679 km stage 4/overall

Pos.; Team; Vehicle; Stage 4; Total time
1. Carlos Sainz/Michel Périn (E/F); Volkswagen Race Touareg 2; 4h07m52s (3rd); 9h17m11s
2. Giniel de Villiers/Dirk von Zitzewitz (RSA/D); Volkswagen Race Touareg 2; 4h08m45s (5th) + 1m55s
3. Carlos Sousa/Andreas Schulz (P/D); Volkswagen Race Touareg 2; 4h07m46s (2nd) + 4m20s
4. Nani Roma/Lucas Cruz Senra (E/E); Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution; 4h07m59s (4th) + 11m44s
5. Hiroshi Masuoka/Pascal Maimon (J/F); Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution; 4h09m24s (6th) + 12m49s
6. Luc Alphand/Gilles Picard (F/F); Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution; 4h12m03s (7th) + 16m10s
7. Jean-Louis Schlesser/Arnaud Debron (F/F); Schlesser Buggy; 3h59m54s (1tst) + 18m20s
8. Guerlain Chicherit/Matthieu Baumel (F/F); BMW X3; 4h13m21s (8th) + 18m28s
9. Stéphane Peterhansel/Jean-P. Cottret (F/F); Mitsubishi Pajero Evolution; 4h25m50s (10th) + 24m01s
10. Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA); Volkswagen Race Touareg 2; 4h40m34s (12th) + 41m54s
Ari Vatanen/Fabrizia Pons (FIN/I); Volkswagen Race Touareg 2; 4h29m57s (11th) + 6h50m05s

Coming up…

Wednesday, 10 January: 5th leg, Ouarzazate (MR) – Tan Tan (MR): 325 km stage/768 km total. The third Moroccan leg of the Dakar Rally includes some tight and twisty as well as some fast stretches through the Atlas mountains. This is followed by a 279-kilometre connecting leg to the bivouac in Tan Tan.

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Team quotes

Kris Nissen (Volkswagen Motorsport Director)
"Volkswagen continues to occupy the top three positions. Our drivers set good times today, and Carlos Sousa’s performance, as well, deserves credit. Congratulations to Jean-Louis Schlesser on winning this stage. On this fast leg through a chott and in the sand the Race Touareg was good, which is a good omen for the days ahead. But Mitsubishi, too, were consistent. Unfortunately, Mark Miller lost time today when the rear differential stopped working properly. We’re going to install a new differential in the evening and analyse the reason for this damage.”

#301 – Giniel de Villiers (RSA), 5th place (leg) / 2nd place overall
"Being the first car out we cut an aisle through the vegetation on the first 100 kilometres. Three times we had to stop to clear the radiators of the grass, which cost us five minutes. In the process we were overtaken by Carlos Sainz and Stéphane Peterhansel. When Carlos suffered a puncture we passed him. 80 kilometres before the finish we drove past Stéphane while he was standing. Looking at it this way, it’s been a good day but I’m very sad because one of my fellow countrymen was killed in a motorcycle accident.”

#303 – Carlos Sainz (E), 3rd place (leg) / 1st place overall
"We’ve maintained the lead in unfavourable conditions. In the beginning I lost time in deep ruts, and the navigation was tricky at first as well. When we had a puncture of the rear right-hand tyre we had to stop and change it. During this time we cleared the radiator of grass as well. On Wednesday I’m expecting a similarly tough day.”

#305 – Mark Miller (USA), 12th place (leg) / 10th place overall
"With Luc Alphand I fought a nice duel and passed him after 230 kilometres when he suffered a puncture. Once we missed a way point and lost a few minutes. When the all-wheel drive stopped working properly we started, with Ari’s help, to change a rear drive shaft. But then we discovered that it was probably the differential and re-installed the shaft.”

#308 – Ari Vatanen (FIN), 11th day (leg)
"In the dust it was difficult to overtake, but our day was very consistent nevertheless. Then we met Mark and helped him to repair the damage. When he had to continue driving with the damaged differential we decided to stay behind him through to the finish to be on the safe side.”

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Snippets from Volkswagen bivouac

- Cold nights: The first night in the tent in the bivouac at Er Rachidia put the Volkswagen squad to a tough test. Although in sunny weather daytime temperatures rose to 14 degrees, the thermometer dropped to 3 below zero at night. Despite special winter sleeping bags and splat mats the tents got very chilly. From Tan Tan the next day, the rally participants can expect more friendly conditions.

- Carlos Sainz as a promoter of young talent: Whenever Volkswagen factory driver Carlos Sainz is not busy contesting cross-country rallies the two-time World Rally Champion devotes his time to the racing career of his son. 12-year-old Carlos jr. will compete in karting in Spain as well as in Italy in 2007. In 2006 he finished third in the Catalonian championship, won the Madrid championship and claimed third place in Italy. "His interest in rallying is nearly nil," says a disappointed Sainz sr. "My son’s idol is Fernando Alonso..."

- Straight from the desert: Daily interviews and background info – during the Dakar Rally Eurosport and ARD’s morning news programme "Morgenmagazin”, air direct reports from the Dakar Rally’s bivouac, including, among others, interviews with members of the Volkswagen factory.