Dakar 2025: Hero MotoSport' Ross Branch Maintains P3 After 48H Chrono; Sainz Exits Rally

Hero MotoSports Team Rally delivered an impressive performance in Stage 2 of the 2025 Dakar Rally, which included the gruelling 48H Chrono. Ross Branch secured the 5th fastest time on the stage. Teammate Nacho Cornejo also performed admirably, finishing 12th in the demanding terrain. In the overall standings, Ross Branch remains in a strong 3rd position, just 4 seconds behind the 2nd place competitor. Nacho Cornejo continues to show consistency, maintaining 9th place overall since the rally's start. As the Dakar Rally progresses, the competition now moves north to Al Henakiah for a challenging 496 km of timed specials. This stage will test riders with a mix of technical sections and high-speed stretches. The faster segments offer opportunities to make significant time gains but come with considerable risks, where even minor mistakes could affect the overall rankings.

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After completing 48H Chrono, Ross Branch said: 'Yesterday was a massive push – we spent 9 hours on the bike in full-gas motocross style from start to finish! The ride with the pack at km 250 was exhilarating, and although I couldn't break away, it was an absolute blast. Camping in the desert was an unforgettable experience, and catching up with fellow riders and drivers was a bonus. I'm just relieved to be back in one piece, with my bike in perfect condition and ready to tackle tomorrow's challenge!'

Nacho Cornejo said: 'We are done with the 48-hour stage. It was a tough and long one with a lot of dust. The bike is performing really well, with just a few minor issues yesterday and today. But overall, it was smooth. This is just the beginning and we still have a lot of race left. Looking forward to the next stage!'

Carlos Sainz Sr. Out of Dakar 2025

Carlos Sainz Sr. has withdrawn from the 2025 Dakar Rally after a serious crash in Stage 2. His Ford Raptor flipped and landed on its roof 327km into Sunday's stage near Bisha, Saudi Arabia.

Although Sainz and his co-driver managed to reach the bivouac and finish the stage on Monday, an FIA inspection revealed critical damage to the roll cage. The technical stewards determined the vehicle was unsafe to continue, as further damage could pose a risk to the crew in future accidents.

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Sainz's early exit ends his first Dakar Rally with Ford. The team's top driver is now Mattias Ekström, who is in fifth place.