KTM rider Matthias Walkner takes Dakar 2018 stage 10 victory

MATTHIAS Walkner has become favourite to win the 2018 Dakar Rally after taking what could prove a decisive victory in stage 10.

The Red Bull KTM (pictured above) rider finished the first stage in Argentina with a 39-minute lead in the standings after others lost over 50 minutes by straying from the route, including Toby Price, Antoine Meo, Stefan Svitko, Joan Barreda and Ricky Brabec.

Meanwhile Adrien Van Beveren, who was preiously leading, exited the rally after a high-speed fall three kilometres from the finishing line.

Walkner tweeted after his victory: ‘Stage 10 done. Finally achieved a win overall. Stunned #tired. And very sorry for @A_Vanbeveren, you showed brilliant racing. Hope, you're ok soon!’

Here are the stage 10 standings:

Stage 10 done. Finally achieved a win overall 1⃣ #stunned #tired. And very sorry for @A_Vanbeveren you showed brilliant racing. Hope, you're ok soon! pic.twitter.com/HFnKIm6Die

— Matthias Walkner (@MatthiasWalkner) 16 January 2018