Daniel Sanders: “I haven’t pieced this first week together so well””

Dakar 2026 | Stage 6 | HAIL > RIYADH
January 9 ^th 2026 - 13:49 [GMT + 3]

 After a day in which he pulled off a feat only he knows how to, namely catching up with the opener after the refuelling stop and finishing alone with the best times and bonus points, Sanders was set to win the day and extend his lead in the overall rankings. But speeding in a 50 kmph zone has cost him a 6-minute penalty and handed the stage win to Ricky Brabec. In the overall rankings, the Australian should arrive at the rest day bivouac with a 45-second lead over his American rival.

 “It was just so tough out in front. It was an emotional rollercoaster all day. Unfortunately, I got a speeding penalty, so that will set me back a bit. I just pushed as much as I could today but it’s hard to do good in the sand, especially opening. I did the best I could and I’ve got to stop making silly mistakes. I haven’t pieced this first week together so well”.