Masuoka holds firm as Mitsubishi dominate
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Japan's Hiroshi Masuoka claimed his first Dakar Rally title yesterday after coming through the final loop stage unscathed in the Senegalese capital.
Masuoka and co-pilot Pascal Maimon finished the stage in 13th, one place behind main rival and last year's winner, Jutta Kleinschmidt, in spite of them both clocking the same time of 23min 22sec, which ensured a 22min 1sec margin over the German.
Kenjiro Shinozuka, also of Japan, finished third. All three were in Mitsubishis.
In the motorcycles, Italian Fabrizio Meoni retained his title after dominating most of the 5,580-mile race from Arras in northern France to Dakar.
Meoni finished a huge 47min 52sec ahead over South African Alfie Cox. Richard Sainct, of France, was third, more than 80 minutes behind the winner.
Masuoka was understandably delighted at his first win in the event. "I was very hungry and worked very hard. I am on top of the world," he said.
Co-driver Maimon was almost overcome with emotion, saying: "It is the most beautiful day in my life after the birth of my child three months ago."
Last year's winner, Kleinschmidt, had to overcome technical throughout the 17-day race and was gracious in defeat.
"We had problems with the transmission and I am happy with second place under the circumstances," she said. "For sure, we will come back next year and try and take a second win in the Dakar."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments