Loeb’s co-driver Elena criticises Dakar roadbook after costly error setback
Sebastien Loeb’s co-driver Daniel Elena has admitted he wanted to quit Dakar early and head back to Europe in preparation for next week’s Monte Carlo Rally.
Nine-time world champion co-driver Elena has been angered at what he sees as inaccuracies in the roadbook for the Peru event. Loeb and Elena were one of many crews who got lost on the event’s third stage after a reference point was indicated in the wrong place in the roadbook.
“Everyone, motorcycles, cars, we’ve all had the same problem at the same point,” explained Elena.
“I want them to recognise it’s their problem.”
The Dakar organiser refused to give the lost time back to the PH Sport Peugeot 3008 DKR crew, prompting Elena to question the point in continuing.
“Sebastien understands my anger,” he said, “but for the sponsors, for the team, he wants to continue. If we continue here, we will arrive at Monte Carlo completely burned out.”
Carlos Sainz was angry at what he saw as a roadbook mistake. His event was spoiled on the same stage when his Mini’s front suspension was damaged after hitting a ditch.
Xavi Colome, the man in charge of the roadbook, said: “The truth is that we have received criticism from the roadbook, especially from stage three, where Loeb and Elena and other participants were lost. At that particular point, it’s true that there was an inaccuracy. The analysis has been done by the stewards and they have decided that this inaccuracy is the same for all the drivers, so times will not be returned.”