Matthias Walkner secures runner-up in Stage 11 of Dakar Rally

Michelle Liew

January 17, 2020

The last stage of the Dakar Rally will start from Haradh and end at Qiddiya.

Matthias Walkner | Photo credits: KTM Factory Racing

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Matthias Walkner has secured runner-up on Day 11 of the 2020 Dakar Rally. This is the rider’s best stage result since the start of the rally. The Austrian narrowly missed out on the victory by nine seconds. Walkner now sits fourth overall before going into the final stage. Teammate Luciano Benavides, on the other hand, came in third quickest whereas Toby Price finished fifth place. Mario Patrao completed his run in 42nd position and lies 32nd overall.

Stage 12 of the 2020 Dakar Rally will cover a total of 447 kilometres, including a timed special of 374 kilometres.

Matthias Walkner (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing)- As It Happened

Photo credits: KTM Factory Racing

“I had a really good stage today. I made the most of my good start position to really push the tracks left by the guys in front. Also, I was riding at 100% for the entire special. I ran out of fuel about two kilometres before the refuelling. But I was able to lie the bike on its side to get the last bit to the pump and luckily it was just enough to carry on. I made up some good time today, but with just one stage left it’ll be tough to make up much more time. I’ll definitely give it my best and aim for a strong finish to the rally,” says Matthias Walkner as quoted from KTM Factory Racing.

Luciano Benavides (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing)- As It Happened

Photo credits: KTM Factory Racing

“It was a really nice day today and the first time we crossed some big dunes. So I like that a lot. I was really worried about the fuel, so I eased off before the refuelling but made it ok. After that, I caught the group in front and rode with them for the rest of the stage – just trying my best not to make any mistakes and get to the finish safely. I’m really happy because there’s just one more day to go now and I hope I can finish this Dakar strong.”

Toby Price (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing)- As It Happened

Photo credits: KTM Factory Racing

“I was able to make up a fair amount of time today. But with the stage cut short yesterday, it was difficult to get enough people between myself and the leaders. All-in-all it’s been a good day with very similar conditions to yesterday really – very fast and open. The sand has made for some tough going. Like a few people today, I nearly ran out of fuel before kilometre 229. I managed to get in with about one litre left in the tank. One day to go now and I’m still feeling good so we’ll see what tomorrow brings.”