Pablo Quintanilla was the winner of the fifth stage of the Dakar 2024. The Monster Energy Honda rider dominated the day, in which the timed section was just over a hundred kilometers.
In statements to the event’s website, the Chilean commented: ‘Finally it was a good stage, after the last two unlucky days. I gave my best. It wasn’t easy because the light wasn’t very good: the sun was high and it was difficult to see the tracks. But I gave 100 percent from the first kilometer, so it was tough. But I’m happy, I felt good, with a good pace, and I think I had a good stage‘.
The terrain also created difficulties, as Quintanilla said: ‘The sand was super heavy, I didn’t expect it because it had rained in the previous days. It wasn’t easy, but I also enjoyed the day a lot. I was riding and playing with the bike, so it was a good day‘.
When asked if he is ready for the marathon stage of the next two days, the South American replied: ‘Yes. This position will also help me for this 48-hour stage. I have the chance to have a good starting position for tomorrow. It will be a long day‘.
