Dakar Rally marred by death of fan

A woman watching the Dakar Rally has died after being struck by a vehicle competing in the race's first stage.

Sonia Natalia Gallardo, 28, was among a group of spectators hit by the car driven by Mirco Schultis and Ulrich Leardi. The accident happened 75 kilometres into the stage between Buenos Aires and Cordoba. Gallardo was taken to hospital in Cordoba but later died of her injuries.

Other victims suffered slight injuries and are currently in hospital. Race organisers offered their condolences and called upon fans to stay within the special "spectator zones".