Seth Quintero Claims First Stage of Dakar Rally

American driver Seth Quintero secured victory in the opening stage of the Dakar Rally after being credited with a 95-second time adjustment for aiding fellow competitor Laia Sanz, who had crashed. Initially, French driver Guerlain Chicherit was declared the stage winner, but the adjustment moved Quintero ahead with a time of 4 hours, 35 minutes, and 8 seconds. Tactical plays were evident, as many top contenders, including defending champion Carlos Sainz and five-time winner Nasser Al-Attiyah, opted to lose time to avoid starting first in the next stage. Australian Daniel Sanders led the motorcycle category, while several competitors faced challenges in the harsh desert terrain. The upcoming 48-hour stage promises to be a significant test as drivers navigate the Empty Quarter's vast dunes, with differing routes for cars and bikes complicating the race strategy. Quintero's win marks a promising start to his Dakar campaign, highlighting the blend of speed and strategic decision-making in the competition.