NASSER OUT

Nasser Al-Attiyah has pulled out of this year's Dakar Rally due to mechanical failure, dashing his dreams of another title in the celebrated race, his team announced on Tuesday.

Al-Attiyah, 42, and his co-driver Lucas Cruz had been pushing for the overall lead of the race until repeated break-downs on the 851km stage nine between Tucuman and Cordoba in Argentina forced them to abandon. A broken water pump was to blame.

At the start of the ninth stage, Al-Attiyah was second in the overall classification for cars, just over three minutes behind Frenchman Stephane Peterhansel, who is pushing for his 11th Dakar Rally win.

The Qatari driver, who won the race in 2011 and was second in 2010, was taking part in a buggy developed over the last five months by Red Bull Motorsport.

The Red Bull Rally Team's other buggy, driven by Spain's Carlos Sainz, was withdrawn on the sixth stage, also because of mechanical problems.

HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAH! Made my day!

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Permalink Reply by Kevin Meyer on January 16, 2013 at 7:07pm

Make sure you share that info with us please... I love the Dakar!

Permalink Reply by Bob on January 16, 2013 at 6:57pm

He was given the chance to start today, but went home instead.

Granted it costs money to run a team, when you no longer have a chance at the win, but still...

Permalink Reply by Mike Kenyon on January 16, 2013 at 7:13pm
changing an engine means a DQ
Permalink Reply by GLuce on January 16, 2013 at 8:20pm

Yep but makes it easier to load-up and get it home. :)

Permalink Reply by QuailCrazy on January 16, 2013 at 8:10pm

I'd love to hear what your buddy the Tech says when it's all said and done. Nassar might be a decent driver, but as others said he's tough on equipment and long on excuses. IMO, he's an arrogant A-hole, who should have thanked RG for the ride and support. The only other guy I can't stand more that Nassar??? Peterhandler! I'm ready to gear up for DAKAR 2014, only 369 more days.

Permalink Reply by Bill Waskey on January 16, 2013 at 8:22pm

Last year it was Robby's fault, as NASSER saw it, so this year is it Red Bull's? Maybe Red Bull dosen't give their drinkers the energy to carry on and see things through. It sure as hell isn't money because Red Bull and Nasser have tons of it.

Permalink Reply by Dave Horwath on January 16, 2013 at 8:37pm

Red Bull gives you wings! The fail to mention that they're angel wings!! When your motor dies, HERE'S YOUR WINGS!

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