It was by no means a Dakar-esque line up, however, Fernando Alonso can draw encouragement from his first rally podium ahead of his Dakar debut in January.

Double F1 World Champion will decide after Rallye du Marco if he’s up for the Dakar challenge.

Alonso gains further Hilux bakkie racing experience in Lichtenburg.

The Dakar Rally-winning Toyota Hilux has made some impression on the Spanish formula One champion Fernando Alonso.