Former ski champ wins Dakar Rally

FORMER skiing champion Luc Alphand admitted his relief at winning the Dakar Rally, although the event was overshadowed by three deaths during the race.

Fans mourned the death of Australian motorcyclist Andy Caldecott - who crashed during stage nine - while two spectators also died, leading to the final stage not being timed.

Officials insist the race is not under threat despite the tragedies during the 15-stage event from Lisbon in Portugal to Dakar in Senegal.