As with the previous two editions, the 2011 Dakar Rally will once again take place in the South American countries of Argentina and Chile, organizers confirmed Tuesday, dpa reported.
The race organizers said the decision was based on the excellent relations built up with the two countries, the vital assets in sporting terms, as well as the swell of enthusiasm seen amongst spectators for this year's race in January.
Enrique Meyer, the Argentine Secretary of State for Tourism, described being able to count on the Dakar again as "a dream come true" for Argentina.
"For the last two years, in addition to the sporting aspect, we have displayed to the whole wide world (more than 190 countries) our landscapes and people. We are very proud to welcome the Dakar again and have worked very hard to be able to do so," he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the new Minister for Sports in Chile, Ruiz Tagle, said it was "an honour" for Chile to be confirmed as a co-host of next year's Dakar.
"We are convinced that this veritable international festival of sport is a perfect way of showing the unique sites of our country to the rest of the world," he said.
"We would like to underline the importance of this event at a time when our country is suffering the consequences of a devastating earthquake. This Dakar will help us look toward the future and demonstrate that Chile is capable of overcoming such misfortune".
The Dakar Rally was moved from Africa to South Africa in 2009 due to the threat of terrorism although organizers have not given up hope of the possibility of a return to the African continent.
The 2011 edition starts January 1 and ends January 16 in Buenos Aires. The detailed route will be unveiled at a press conference in Paris on April 29.