Dakar 2025 on two wheels: Santolino takes stage 3 while Sanders takes the lead
In the exciting saga of the Dakar 2025, the competition on two wheels has reached new levels of intensity. The stage 3 witnessed a spectacular victory by the Spaniard Lorenzo Santolino, who took first place in a challenging route from Bisha to Al-Henakiyah. Meanwhile, the Australian Daniel Sanders, despite facing obstacles, has maintained his leading position in the overall standings, displaying his mettle and skill in one of the toughest races in the world.
In the thrilling world of the dakar, the third stage of the Rally Dakar 2025 has left an indelible mark. Spanish rider Lorenzo Santolino achieved his first stage victory, while Daniel Sanders continued to solidify his position at the top of the overall standings. With a complicated and surprise-filled route, this stage has become an exciting chapter in the history of the rally.
Santolino shines in stage 3
The third stage of the Dakar, which connected Bisha and Al-Henakiyah, witnessed an outstanding performance by Lorenzo Santolino. Despite difficult conditions and a route shortened to 327 km due to weather inclement, Santolino managed to surpass his competitors, standing out for his skill and determination. With a time of 3h 44’34”, the Sherco rider triumphed over Bradley Cox and Ricky Brabec, who finished in second and third place, respectively.
Challenges for Sanders
Despite having dominated the initial stages, the Australian Daniel Sanders faced a tough day opening the route during this stage. Although he started as a favorite and maintained the lead for a time, the need to clear the path cost him nearly 15 minutes compared to the day’s winner. This situation significantly reduced his lead in the overall standings, leaving him with only 1’57” of difference over his closest pursuer, Skyler Howes.
The climate of the competition
Adverse weather conditions played a crucial role in this stage of the Dakar. The originally scheduled route of 496 km had to be shortened due to bad weather, adding an additional level of difficulty for all participants. Adaptability and strategy became essential to navigate the challenges of the route, highlighting the skills of the riders in such situations.
Stage 3 standings
The competition of stage 3 brought with it an exciting ranking. The top ten riders to complete the stage are as follows:
- Santolino (Spa/Sherco) 3h 44’34”
- Cox (Rsa/Ktm) at 1’21”
- Brabec (Usa/Honda) at 4’01”
- Howes (Usa/Honda) at 4’10”
- Branch (Bwa/Hero) at 4’14”
- L. Benavides (Arg/Ktm) at 4’55”
- Svitko (Svk/Ktm) at 5’02”
- Quintanilla (Cil/Honda) at 5’19”
- Canet (Spa/Ktm) at 5’31”
- Michek (Cze/Ktm) at 6’42”
Overall standings after stage 3
Regarding the overall standings, after three stages, the leaders are:
- Sanders (Aus/Ktm) 20h 09’54”
- Howes (Usa/Honda) at 1’57”
- Branch (Bwa/Hero) at 2’05”
- Brabec (Usa/Honda) at 4’21”
- Schareina (Spa/Honda) at 8’17”
- L. Benavides (Arg/Ktm) at 12’37”
- Quintanilla (Cil/Honda) at 15’42”
- Van Beveren (Fra/Honda) at 16’24”
- Cox (Rsa/Ktm) at 40’08”
- Cornejo Florimo (Cil/Hero) at 41’18”
The road ahead
With the rally still in its early stages, many challenges lie ahead for the competitors. The fight for the podium will intensify in the coming days as each rider seeks to maximize their performance and minimize errors. In this race, not only the skills of the riders are tested, but also the endurance and cunning of each one. Undoubtedly, the Dakar 2025 remains an intriguing and exciting event that captures the attention of fans worldwide.
- Source: L’Équipe, French magazine specializing in sports news.
- Source: Auto Hebdo, French magazine dedicated to motorsports.
- Source: RMC Sport, French television channel dedicated to sports, including motorsports.
Summary of Stage 3 of Dakar 2025: Santolino shines while Sanders leads
In the thrilling race of the Dakar 2025, the third stage has left an indelible mark with the victory of Lorenzo Santolino. This Spanish rider achieved his first win in the legendary rally, demonstrating exceptional skills and nerves of steel on a challenging course. The stage, which was initially set to cover 496 kilometers, was reduced to 327 kilometers due to adverse weather conditions, increasing the tension and competition.
After a few dominant days from Daniel Sanders, who had maintained a solid lead, this stage revealed the fragility of the first position. Despite starting the day as the leader and opening the route for his competitors, Sanders found himself in a tough spot that cost him nearly 15 minutes compared to Santolino. However, despite this setback, Sanders retains the top position in the overall standings, demonstrating his consistency and skill.
The dynamics of the race are tightening, with the top five now separated by only eight minutes, promising an exciting finish in the upcoming stages. Meanwhile, the challenge continues for all riders, who must face tough trials and extreme conditions, keeping in mind that the Dakar is a test defined by each kilometer traveled.
In conclusion, the rally remains an exciting spectacle, where each stage tells a unique story of resilience, strategy, and an indomitable spirit. With Santolino on the rise and Sanders defending his dominance, the coming days will undoubtedly offer more surprises and unexpected turns.
