Stage Seven of the Dakar Rally resumed after a rest day. Drama ensued before the day even began. Eryk Goczal was disqualified from the rally. According to reports, Goczal had a non-permitted part on his vehicle in the challenger class. Organizers say there were illegal parts found in their clutch. Goczal had been in the overall lead with several stage wins.  Meantime Mitch Guthrie Jr came home with the stage win. Goczal’s disqualification also moves Guthrie Jr. to the overall lead.
Nacho Cornejo came away with a win in the bike class. Ricky Brabec has the overall lead with Ross Branch only one second back.
In the car class, the day belonged to Sebastien Loeb. Lucas Moraes finished second and Nasser Al-Attiyah third. Carlos Sainz continues to maintain his overall lead.
Images courtesy of A.S.O.
