2002: Roma under pressure (30/40)

December 28 ^th 2017 - 15:41

Edition 40 is approaching… a look back at 40 episodes with the most memorable images in the history of the Dakar.

Demonstrating impressive speed in his first participations on the Dakar, Joan ‘Nani’ Roma was one of the most prominent contenders in the bike category at the turn of the 21st Century. But the Spaniard experienced more than his share of bad luck, which deprived him of a victory when it was often in sight but so difficult to reach. In 2000, a technical problem blocked his KTM and he plummeted down to 17th place in the general classification, while he retired from the rally in 2001 after taking a fall. The following year, Roma was leading the general classification two days before the finish, but lost his way and his lucidity between Tichit and Kiffa… another set back! He finally stepped onto the top step of the podium in 2004 before beginning his reconversion to cars. The wait on four-wheels was even longer. “Nani” won in the car category on his 9th attempt.