Image: Supplied.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Toby Price has reclaimed the lead of the 2023 Dakar Rally following a strong ride to third place on stage 12, now in charge with just two days remaining.

Completing the second leg of the marathon stage without issue, two-time winner Price covered the 185-kilometer timed special in just under two hours.

More importantly, Price not only made up time on his closest rivals in the race for victory, but he also regained the overall rally lead and will have two other riders to chase down on tomorrow’s penultimate stage 13.

Racing at the front of the field remains incredibly close, with Price leading the general rankings by a narrow margin of just under 30 seconds. He will draw on all his experience and skill to ensure good, solid finishes over the final two stages of the race as he has his sights set firmly on securing his third title at the world’s toughest rally-raid.

“The marathon stage has gone well,” Price reflected. “I have to admit, I didn’t sleep that well yesterday, but I gave it my all out there on the dunes. It’s a really close race right now and even the smallest problem could cost you the win. My plan is to keep on pushing over the next two days and try and have some fun.”

Price currently holds a 28-second advantage over former leader Skyler Howes (Husqvarna Factory Racing), while Red Bull KTM teammate Kevin Benavides sits in third position, over two minutes in arrears. Australian Daniel Sanders (Red Bull GasGas) placed runner-up on stage 12, now seventh overall.