Stage 7, it was a sad day in Dakar 2020. It was marked by a crash that claimed the life of Portuguese rider Paulo Gonçalves, who was taking part in his 13th Dakar.
Paulo was one of the most experienced and beloved champions of the rally-raid family. He was the runner-up of the 2015 edition and 2013 cross-country rallies world champion. He crashed 276 km into the stage’s special.
The stage began in full action. From Riyadh to Wadi Al Dawasir, riders had to complete 741 km. As always, the route was quite challenging with some very fast sections where riders needed to be extra cautious.
It was Kevin Benavides, Paulo’s former teammate, who took the stage in a day darkened by the passing of Paulo. His time was 04H 36′ 22”. The 2nd position was procured by JOAN BARREDA BORT from MONSTER ENERGY HONDA TEAM 2020 with a time of 04H 37′ 45”. And the 3rd place was taken by RED BULL KTM FACTORY TEAM’s MATTHIAS WALKNER.
ABDULLAH AL SHATTI from DUUST RALLY TEAM finished the stage at 26th position with a time of 05H 05′ 42”.
For full results, click HERE.
Source – Dakar.com
