Dakar Rally.. The third stage was shortened due to storms in Saudi Arabia

The third stage of the Dakar Desert Rally in Saudi Arabia was shortened due to weather conditions, organizers announced Monday.
After the participants ran the second marathon stage (48 hours chrono) in difficult nature in Bisha, “the Al-Hanakiyah area is currently exposed to exciting winter weather that includes rain and severe storms that may last for a few days.”
The organizers’ statement continued, “In addition, the organizers decided to adopt an alternative and less difficult program for the third special stage tomorrow (Tuesday) from Bisha to Al-Hanakiyah.”
The stage was reduced from 496 km to 327, with the area affected by rainfall cancelled.
An easier stage route was drawn up to give the participants and their vehicles some rest, especially since they will have to deal with a long marathon stage spanning two days on January 8th and 9th.
While the organizers considered that the departure times from the overnight camp remain unchanged, they concluded: “There is nothing better than a shorter distance for the special stage and a longer time to enjoy the winter atmosphere in Saudi Arabia.”