The Peruvian pilots participating in the Dakar rally expressed their concern about an eventual cancellation of the commitment of the Government of Peru to host the 2019 edition of the race.
Next year’s event had been announced as the 100% Peruvian Dakar, with a tour entirely on its territory, said Gestión, and the Peruvian government is considering the high costs of organizing this race, which involves the payment of $6 million US dollars to Amaury Sport Organization (ASO), the organizer of the rally, as well as other additional disbursements whose amount could reach $25 million US dollars.
In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, César Villanueva, the pilots asked the authorities to remain firm in their commitment to host the race.
The pilots also recalled the “negative impact on the Peru Government image internationally” that led to the cancellation of the Dakar 2016, which forced the organizers of the race to limit the course of that edition to Argentina and Bolivia.
“With all the advanced preparations and investments made, the Government decided to reverse its participation in the race, a fact that not only hurt us but also the thousands of Peruvians involved directly or indirectly with the competition,” they expressed in the letter.
In addition, the pilots explained to Gestión that since the race was announced on January they have already invested in vehicles and in training their teams, as well as in gathering the money to register in the race.
“The ‘Dakarians’ also reminded the Peruvian Executive that, in the 2018 edition, the Dakar left in Peru a media impact valued at $54 million US dollars and an economic impact of $40.5 million US dollars on tourism, with only five days of competition, according to the figures of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism”, you can read in Gestión.
(Source / Source)
(Cover Photo Wikimedia Commons)
Don’t Miss:
Now that you're here:
We're asking you, our reader, to make a contribution in support of our digital guide in order to keep informing, updating and inspiring people to visit Peru. Why now? In our near 20-year journey as the leading English-language source on travel in Peru, we've had our fair share of ups and downs-but nothing quite like the challenges brought forth in the first quarter of 2020.
By adapting to the changing face of the tourism and travel industry (on both local and international levels), we have no doubt we will come out stronger-especially with the support of our community. Because you will travel again, and we will be ready to show you the best of Peru.
Your financial support means we can keep sharing the best of Peru through high-quality stories, videos and insights provided by our dedicated team of contributors and editors based in Peru. And of course, We are here to answer your questions and help whenever you need us.
As well, it makes possible our commitment to support local and small businesses that make your visit an unforgettable one. Your support will help the people working in these industries get back on their feet once the world allows us to make our dream of enjoying everything Peru has to offer a reality again-from its mouthwatering gastronomy, thriving Amazon and archaeological wonders such as Machu Picchu.
Together, we will find a way through this. As a member of our community, your contribution, however big or small, is valuable.
Support Traveling & Living in Peru from as little as $1 - and it only takes a minute. Thank you!