The 2024 edition of the Desafío Ruta 40 YPF Infinia has started in Argentina, with the prologue held in the "El Cóndor-Copina" sector at over 2,000 meters altitude. Despite the fog, wind, and cold, spectators came in large numbers to see the world's best pilots in action.
Ultimate:
Nasser Al Attiyah, last year's winner and of the two previous races, won the prologue in the Ultimate category. Yazeed Al Rahji from Overdrive Racing finished second, with Marcos Baumgart from X Rally Motorsport in third position. Al Attiyah demonstrated his experience in this type of event, completing the course in 16'17''.
Challenger and SSV:
In the Challenger category, Rokas Baciuska achieved the best time, followed by David Zille and Nicolas Cavigliasso. In SSV, Yasir Seaidan, who had to retire in Portugal due to mechanical problems, made a good comeback, surpassing Ricardo Ramilo and Sebastian Guayasamin.
Starting Strategy:
During the ceremony for choosing the starting order, RallyGP and Ultimate pilots chose to start as late as possible, with Schareina and Al Attiyah among the last to choose their positions. This strategy aims to avoid opening the track in the challenging conditions of the first day.
Race Development:
The first stage around Córdoba will cover 505 km, with 381 km of special stages. The race director, Pablo Eli, highlighted that navigation will be intense due to the numerous notes the pilots must follow. The route includes river sections and rocky terrains, adding more challenges to the event.
Stage Schedule:
- June 3: Córdoba - Córdoba (Link: 124 km / Special: 381 km / Total: 505 km)
- June 4: Córdoba - San Juan (Link: 301 km / Special: 423 km / Total: 724 km)
- June 5: San Juan - San Juan (Link: 137 km / Special: 341 km / Total: 478 km)
- June 6: San Juan - La Rioja (Link: 254 km / Special: 412 km / Total: 666 km)
- June 7: La Rioja - Córdoba (Link: 301 km / Special: 218 km / Total: 519 km)
