The Dakar discovered South America in 2009. It came across a land of splendour in which it flourished, where it found its bearings, and which continues to throw up surprises. Preparation of the route for 2011 has given us confirmation of these landscapes' capacity to amaze, as well as the sporting potential of the terrains to be explored.

In Argentina, the race will visit five new provinces. The route will come close to the borders of Bolivia, taking the competitors to Jujuy, Salta and Tucuman: the most loyal of these gauchos of a different kind will have ridden their trusty steeds through 17 of the country's 23 provinces in the space of three years.

In Chile as well the Dakar has opted to push back the boundaries. Near to Arica, at the very northern tip of the Atacama Desert, the competitors will almost be in Peru for the rest day!

This South American experience is not a merely sporting one, it is a means of exchange as well. Beyond the sporting aspect and an attraction for the world's different regions, an important consideration for the Dakar has always been feelings and the human touch. The relationship that has developed between the event, the competitors and the two host nations, was immediately one of spontaneous friendship.

In the face of the catastrophe suffered by Chile in February, our shock was soon tempered by the humility and dignity shown by our Latin American friends. Willing and full of energy in spite of their suffering, the Chilean people are also counting on the Dakar to help "dry their tears". We hope to be worthy of such trust.

Etienne Lavigne,
Director of the Dakar