09 January 2009 - 23H16
Lopez: 'I wasn't familiar with the terrain'
Home favourite Francisco 'Chaleco' Lopez claimed his maiden win as the Dakar rally entered his country, Chile, for the first time Friday. He was welcomed in Valparaiso as a hero.
The seventh stage, between Mendoza (Argentina) and Valparaiso (Chile), took the bikers through the Andes cordillera. However, local hero Francisco Lopez recognised that he was not familiar with the Chilean terrain.
Click here and read the highlights of the seventh stage
FRANCE 24 - How do you feel about this victory in your country, Chile?
Francisco Lopez - Delighted. Moreover, it's the first time I'm racing the Dakar rally. I'm really happy.
FRANCE 24 - Were you more at ease on the Chilean tracks than on the Argentinean ones ?
Francisco Lopez - I wasn't familiar with the terrain today. What pushed me was the pace of the bikers ahead of me right from the starting line.
FRANCE 24 - What will you be doing on tomorrow's day of rest ?
Francisco Lopez - First, I'm going to stay up a little later than usual. After, I'll get a massage to be well rested for the end of the race.
FRANCE 24 - What our your plans for the last seven stages?
Francisco Lopez - I'll do my best and try to win other stages, or at least, be among the top bikers.
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