Giniel de Villiers, the winner of the 2009 Dakar Rally and boasting 21 consecutive finishes on his record, has been forced to retire from the Dakar.
A team spokesperson said; “Dirk von Zitzewitz, co-driver for Giniel de Villiers in the #206 GR Hilux EVO experienced neck pain during Stage 6. The pain became severe as the stage progressed, and after a medical examination, the medical staff deemed it unsafe for Dirk to continue, bringing an end to their race. This is an unfortunate finish to the pair’s illustrious Dakar career spanning 14 races. The team wishes him a speedy recovery.”
