Dakar Rally: Spectator taken to hospital after accident

An unfortunate incident occurred during the first stage of the Dakar Rally as a photographer was hit by a competing car.

It is believed the person in question obtained medical attention and was taken to the hospital.

What exactly happened is unclear at this time, but organizers report that the cars started with an hour delay and that the incident occurred just after the start.

The live timing does show that Lionel Baud, who was scheduled to start third, was the only driver to start the 414-kilometre outing "on time."

Brian Baragwanath and Martin Prokop were due to start beforehand but did not see the starting time.

It is not yet clear if they were involved in the incident.

This article will be added to as new updates become available.