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The Dakar rally, which is a race in fifteen days and 9,723 kilometer across the Sahara desert, has been canceled due to concerns of terrorist sabotage and the recent killings of a French family in Mauritania blamed on al-Qaida-linked militants. Ever since the first Dakar rally back in 1979 it has been a race every year, until now 2008. “No other decision but the cancellation of the sporting event could be taken,” organizers said.

“Groggy but still standing, I confirm today that the adventure is not over. We believed in the 2008 Dakar. We wanted a demanding, tough and intense thirtieth edition. You had chosen to register for it, to spend time, energy and money. Our common challenge was wrecked at the precise moment when it was shaping up. The shock was brutal for all of us and the consequences heavy for most. “

Said Etienne Lavigne, Director of the Dakar Rallye on the 9th of January.

The race has been subject to criticism from several sources, generally focusing on the race’s impact on the inhabitants of the countries through which it passes. The environmental impact of the race has been another issue. Several people has lost their lives in the race and more people has been injured. But the Dakar rally is still a great race with over 500 vehicles on the starting line and massive adrenaline involved. But there is nothing more to do than keep the adrenaline and the expectations and wait for next years Dakar rally.

More information about Dakar rally at Dakar.com