Peru has been chosen as the starting point of Dakar 2018, the world's hardest and most grueling race, event organizer Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) confirmed on Wednesday.
While the exact route is yet to be revealed, Peru's Lima and Ica cities seem confirmed. The capital city is to host the grand start, whereas Ica region is most certainly in for its deserts, highly enjoyed by competitors in previous 2012 and 2013 editions.
In 2013, the last time the Andean nation was part of the off-road competition, the race also began in Lima. The year before, the capital city was the final destination.
Dakar organizers also expressed solidarity with rain, landslide and flooding victims in Peru. In this respect, they are working on an action plan to support the Central Government Campaign #UnaSolaFuerza (#ASingleForce).
The 40th edition of Dakar is scheduled to run from January 6 to 20, 2018. The route will begin in the Inca nation, passing through La Paz (Bolivia) until Cordoba (Argentina).
The 2018 edition will comprise 14 stages to be raced against the clock. Registration begins on May 15.
The international sports event will promote the Andean nation as a tourist destination and put it before the eyes of nearly 190 countries.
In addition, Peru expects to make US$300 million in profit on the occasion from lodging, food and transportation-related activities, among others.
The Dakar Rally 2018 will host 750 competitors, among them 40 Peruvian representatives.
(END) DGP/DHT/MVB