Great riders are recognized by their ability to navigate a stage alone and thus win two consecutive stages. That is what Luciano Benavides managed to do, as he improved his roll of honour with the 5th stage victory of his career on the Dakar and moved up to 4th place in the general rankings for his best ever position.

The Argentinean beat Adrien Van Beveren by 1’54’’ over the route of the day’s special. It was also a good day for the Frenchman as he closed in on his Spanish team-mate Tosha Schareina, who was off the pace due to a fall at the beginning of the special. The battle for second place is occurring some way behind race leader Daniel Sanders, who will tackle the decisive stage 10 with a lead of 14’45’’ and from 3rd position in the starting order.

(Editors Note: Americans Ricky Brabec and Skyler Howes finished fourth and fifth.)

Top 10 in stage nine: