LA PAZ: The Dakar Rally reached the lung-busting altitude of La Paz on Friday and was quickly caught up in violent street battles being fought between protesters and police in the tense Bolivian capital.
Around 100 demonstrators clashed with police who used tear gas and pepper spray to quell the trouble which spread to a road being used by the competitors. “We want hospitals, not the Dakar,” chanted protesters, aiming their frustrations at President Evo Morales, who has been in power since 2006 and hopes to stay there until 2025.
Empty water bottles and chairs were thrown in the direction of the main official Dakar vehicle which led the competitors into La Paz. The first motorcycle riders were jeered by protesters who have also been venting anger over the country’s penal code.
Despite the trouble, Morales welcomed the arrival of the two-week Dakar event, which stretches from Peru, into Bolivia and ends in Argentina, in his country. “We are proud to participate in this event, which can integrate us in the world, promote sport and attract tourists,” he tweeted.
Poland's players celebrate their victory. — AFP/FileCARDIFF: Poland’s Wojciech Szczesny saved a Daniel James spot...
Rybakina, who will meet Victoria Azarenka for a place in the final, needed nearly three hours to beat Sakkari
Qatar's forward Almoez Ali reacts during the 2026 FIFA World Cup AFC qualifiers football match between Qatar and...
This representational image shows a living room. — Pixabay/FilePARIS: Like many Parisians, Martin Cassan will be...
They will be in Group E with Belgium, Slovakia and Romania, who they face in their opening game in Munich on June 17
Tony Finau of The United States plays his tee shot on the fifth hole during the first round of the 2023 Masters...