First kilometers in Argentina showed true character: “The prologue went badly”

One of the rounds of the World Rally-Raid Championship, the Desafío Ruta 40, kicked off in Argentina on Sunday. Among around 150 competitors on the starting line was Antanas Kanopkinas, rider of the CFMOTO Thunder Racing Team. After returning from the nine-kilometer prologue, the athlete admitted that even such a short stage was enough to understand that this rally would not be an easy one.

“The first kilometers hit hard and showed their true character. This competition is not only about speed, but also navigation. Already in the second kilometer I drifted slightly off course, but only lost a dozen seconds or so. In another place I simply went the wrong way and it took me some time to get back onto the track,” said A. Kanopkinas, adding that the prologue did not go well for him. “But now, looking for the bright side of the result, I’ll start from the back tomorrow, which means there will be plenty of dust ahead to show the way. Of course, riding in dust is not enjoyable, but maybe I’ll make fewer navigation mistakes. It seems that navigation errors will cost everyone here — and they will cost a lot.”

Already on Monday, competitors will tackle the first special stage. Organizers say participants will have to complete a demanding 340-kilometer timed section featuring open deserts, dry riverbeds, salt flats, and fast yet extremely tricky sections. Just as A. Kanopkinas pointed out, organizers are also warning in advance that this rally will be decided not only by pace, but by navigation as well — in some places, even a small percentage error can cost valuable minutes.

The first kilometers have already shown that this year’s “Desafío Ruta 40” will show no mercy to the competitors. Long days on the stage, difficult terrain, rocky canyons, sand, and a constant battle not only against rivals, but against the course itself, lie ahead.