Ross Branch landed Hero MotoSports its second ever stage win in Riyadh, after 346km special test.
Mason Klein, second in the special, seemed to come out in a much stronger position but has been demoted from the top of the Dakar standings following a 2-minute penalty for speeding in the road section.
Skyler Howes therefore stays in control of the rally by 1′13″ over Kevin Benavides and Mason Klein, who are tied on time.
The Argentinian, the top-ranked contender for the title in yesterday's stage, is promoted to second, while Klein slips to third. Toby Price was handed down a 1-minute penalty, but he remains fourth overall, now 2′58″ behind Howes.
ASO