The world famous annual rally raid event is once again upon us.

Since its inception in 1978 the Dakar Rally, formerly known as the Paris–Dakar Rally, has seen both amateur and professional entries in their heavily modified or purpose built vehicles battle it out over the hostile sand dunes, rocks, mud, camel grass and other treacherous terrain.

The Dakar has three main competitive classes; the truck class (vehicles weighing more than 3,500 kg), car class (vehicles weighing less than 3,500 kg), and the moto/motorcycle class (including a sub-class for quads)

The Dakar Rally 2012 is the 33rd running of the event and sees the action return to the South American continent for the fourth consecutive year.  The course will see the drivers compete over 5,000+ grueling miles through the countries of Argentina, Chile and Peru, starting in Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina and finally finishing in the Peruvian capital, Lima.

In the car class the 2009 winner, South African born Giniel de Villiers, looks set for another podium finish after the disqualification of Hummer driver Robby Gordon. The Red Bull driver de Villiers with co-driver Dirk von Zitzewitz in their Toyota Pickup Hilux are now focusing on the remaining stages of the rally.  The Toyota in its first Dakar appearance is performing remarkably well considering the standard engine, compared to that of the modified engines of the current leaders’ Minis.

You can keep up to date with Giniel de Villiers progress on his blog

The current leader of the moto (motorcycle) class is 2010 winner Cyril Despres. The French rider holds the narrowest of leads over reigning Dakar champion Marc Coma. The Red Bull riders, both three times winners, are set for an intense battle over the remaining stages. It’s going to be a riveting finale!

Follow the closing stages and find out if Despres can hold onto his slender lead via his blog

Here is the latest video report, including Trucks from the Rally Dakar 2012:

Finally good luck to all the entrants in the final stages and I might see you next year

Here’s to the Rally Dakar – Top of my bucket list ...... if only I had the moolah.

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About the Author

Fabien Kornél is a Regular Contributor to RallyBuzz.com