The stage has been almost blocked by Oliveras’truck which had capsized at kilometer 45,7. Then Tomecek also capsized at kilometer 47,530 and definetly blocked the way. As a result, only the first eight competitors have been classified according to their real time. The officials have decided to grant the time of 2h17’50’’ clocked by Giacomo Vismara who eight on the stage to all the remaining.

The truck race saw Vladimir Chaguin (KAM – n°508) clinch his second consecutive stage in this 2006 Dakar and his fourth straight success after winning the last two specials of last year’s event. The Russian who now has 36 stage victories under the belt beat André De Azevedo (TAT – n°513) by 1’30” and Miki Biasion (IVE – n°512) by 4’30. But the race only saw a few trucks make it to the finish line. Indeed Tomas Tomecek (TAT – n°518) suffered a major crash and his big Tatra blocked the path to all the following trucks. The unlucky competitors behind the Czech vehicle will all be given a same time.

BMW’s Nasser Al Attiyah, driving a X3 managed an excellent third spot so far only 27" adrift. Fourth is now Hiroshi Masuoka in his Pajero. Title holder Stephane Peterhansel (Mitsubishi) again suffered a puncture but managed 6th position, 2’25" adrift.

After winning his first special on a Dakar for his first ever stage yesterday, Carlos Sainz (Volkswagen) confirmed that when it came to European stages, he was the man to beat. The Spaniard clocked a provisional fastest time of 1h34’28" beating Mitsubishi’s Luc Alphand by 25". The French runner-up of last year’s event this time beat his team mate Nani Roma, third on the day. Bruno Saby in his Volkswagen was fourth just ahead of national hero Carlos Sousa. Only eight cars have so far made it to the finish.

Portugal Ruben Faria who had captured second spot yesterday, managed the fastest time of today’s special. On the 115km course of Stage 2 between Portimao and Malaga, the Portuguese clock a final time 1h37’07. A Great moment for the KTM privateer who beat official KTM-Gauloise rider Isidre Esteve by 1’07. Third went to another member of the blue team, David Casteu, at 1’28. Yesterday’s stage winner Cyril Despres finished way behind loosing 3’38

Portugal Ruben Faria who had captured second spot yesterday, managed the fastest time of today’s special. On the 115km course of Stage 2 between Portimao and Malaga, the Portuguese clock a final time 1h37’07. A Great moment for the KTM privateer who beat official KTM-Gauloise rider Isidre Esteve by 1’07. Third went to another member of the blue team, David Casteu, at 1’28. Yesterday’s stage winner Cyril Despres finished way behind loosing 3’38

For the first on European soil the Dakar will host a special of more than 100kms. Like yesterday, driving skills required for a good result should be close to those of WRC driver. Indeed, navigation won’t be that important on the day. The average speed of the vehicles should increase as the tracks should certainly be less muddy. 80% of the course will be situated on mountainous roads and the rain that hit the area a few days ago is no longer a problem according to the opening team.

The drivers that impressed during the first stage will certainly be at ease on the Algarve hill crests. While special successes aren’t a priority for Cyril Despres, Carlos Sainz could well triumph for a second consecutive time. But Carlos Sousa, supported by 200 000 Portuguese fans yesterday won’t want to leave his country without a stage victory.