The penultimate stage of the 2018 Dakar Rally saw riders cover 907km – from San Juan to Cordoba – including a 424km, timed section.

It was a successful day for Sherco TVS’ sole remaining rider, Juan Pedrero, who completed the stage at an impressive fifth. The strong result has helped catapult the Spanish rider from 14th to 11th in the general classifications, with just one stage left to go.

“Joan Pedrero raced an excellent stage and now ranks 11th, overall. He is only 26sec from 10th place and 50sec from ninth. Tomorrow, the 14th and last leg of this Dakar – will be a short stage; and anything can happen,” said David Casteu, Team Manager, Sherco TVS Factory Rally Team.

Hero MotoSports continued to make steady progress, both riders tackling the stage carefully to avoid any incidents just a day before the final stage. Oriol Mena has gained two places and now stands 8th, overall, after completing the stage in 8th place. Meanwhile, CS Santosh’s 33rd place stage finish has helped him gain a spot. He is now 34th, in the overall standings.