Jan 3, 2009 CE
Ceremonial Start in Buenos Aires
The 2009 Dakar Rally officially began with the first stage starting in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This marked the first time in the race's history that it was held outside of Africa.
Chronological Storyline (6 Milestones)
Jan 6, 2009 CE
Stage 3: Puerto Madryn to Jacobacci
Drivers faced challenging Patagonian terrain in Stage 3. Carlos Sainz took the overall lead in the car category, while Marc Coma continued to battle for the top spot in the bike category.
Jan 10, 2009 CE
Rest Day in Valparaíso
Competitors reached the halfway point of the rally and enjoyed a rest day in Valparaíso, Chile, before preparing for the grueling second week of racing through the Atacama Desert.
Jan 13, 2009 CE
Stage 10: Copiapó to La Serena
The marathon stage tested the endurance of all competitors. In the bike category, Marc Coma secured a strong lead, while the car category saw intense battles between Volkswagen teammates Carlos Sainz and Giniel de Villiers.
Jan 16, 2009 CE
Stage 12: Fiambalá to Copiapó
Carlos Sainz got stuck in the dunes and lost significant time, allowing his Volkswagen teammate Giniel de Villiers to take the overall lead in the car category with just a few stages remaining.
Jan 18, 2009 CE
Finish Line in Buenos Aires
The rally concluded back in Buenos Aires. Giniel de Villiers won the car category, becoming the first South African to win the Dakar Rally. Marc Coma won the bike category, and Firdaus Kabirov won the truck category.