Why did the Dakar moved from Africa to South America?
The official reason was because of terrorist action. Apparently an “Al-Qaeda” group made a direct threat to the organisers. And four French tourists were killed a couple of days before the start of the race. For the first time in history, the organisers cancelled the event on the day it was meant to start. The following year the event was held in South America. There are rumours that this will be the last time in South America. The organisers have the idea that it moves around the world. So it might be in China or Russia next time. Has the new location changed the format of the event? It has changed in a few ways. Now it’s more focussed on the sporting side. These days the bikes and equipment are so good that they can handle the conditions. Now the distances are shorter, but the riding is more technical. By moving to South America the event is in the summer, versus winter in Africa. Therefore the days are longer, because there is more light. Also, the South Americans are mad for Dakar.
