The Dakar goes to South America for the first time.
The Amaury Sport Organisation has announced that the legendary off-road rally event will take place in Argentina and Chile from the 3rd to the 18th of January 2009. They promise an amazing course with a 9000km loop, including 6000km of specials, between Buenos Aires, Valparaiso and Buenos Aires.
During the last thirty years the race has forged itself a legendary reputation on the African territory, which helped it grow and become one of the major events of the international rally calendar. The Dakar knows how to keep and maintain values as well as a unique spirit. Being a first-choice sporting competition that mixes great champions and amateurs, the event has become extremely international throughout the years. It unites up to 52 different nationalities among its competitors. Added to that, the Dakar gathers a spirit driven by a quest for adventure, open-mindedness and discovery. With 21 African countries visited during its history, it's a nomadic event by excellence. It has the vocation to explore the deserts of the World and A.S.O. studies the possibility for other territories to welcome the Dakar.
The 2009 edition has gladly accepted the invitation of Argentina and Chile, countries with which A.S.O. was in contact for several years.
The organisers were seduced by the discovery of territories where navigation, sand, and crossings will be on the menu. Argentina and Chile gather all the ingredients for a fantastic Dakar, both in terms of the level of the varied topography and the splendour of the landscapes or through its infrastructures. The enthusiasm launched by the prospect of welcoming the event promises a great Dakar.
