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.

Frenchman Alphand, who won skiing’s World Cup in 1997, was ahead after the 14th stage and therefore secured the title before the final 20 miles which skirted the shores of Lake Rose.

“It is always a big relief to be in Dakar,” the Mitsubishi driver said. “And when you win, it is incredible. It has been a beautiful race, with a real battle.”

Giniel De Villiers finished second in his Volkswagen, with Alphand’s Mitsubishi team-mate Nani Roma third.

Frenchman Cyril Despres, who battled on despite a dislocated collarbone, finished second in the motorcycle category behind Marc Coma. Giovanni Sala finished third.

Vladimir Chagin won the truck category from Hans Stacey, and overall 93 bikes, 64 car crews and 33 trucks eventually made it to the finish line.