Dakar 2026 Stage 7: Ekstrom Takes Win After Lategan’s Drama

Ford’s Mattias Ekstrom claimed victory in Stage 7 of the 2026 Dakar Rally after leader Henk Lategan encountered issues, losing over 10 minutes. Lategan had been ahead by 1 minute and 46 seconds at the final checkpoint and was on track to secure both the stage win and the overall lead. The unexpected turn of events allowed Ekstrom to capitalize on Lategan’s misfortune. This dramatic shift highlights the unpredictable nature of the rally.

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