With stage three one of the longest and most difficult of the African rally, with competitors racing 426km of special test from Tibniya to Abu Mingar, Barreda secured a solid win.

Although some two minutes and 22 seconds adrift, Paulo Goncalves, Barreda’s teammate followed him home for second, with Poland’s Kuba Przygonski (KTM) taking third over seven minutes behind Barreda.

Barreda now holds a firm grip on the overall standings with his teammate Goncalves retaking second place. Stage four looks forward to challenging 463km of special test.

Joan Barreda: “I’m really pleased with the way I rode today. I managed to be really quick as well as navigating the road book well. Now I’ve got a good advantage that I will try to hold on to until the end of the rally.”

Paulo Goncalves: “Joan really rode hard and I kept behind him for the whole of the stage. I’m happy with the second place. Today’s stage had been really difficult but our TE449RR was up to the job.”

Stage Three Results:

1. Barreda (Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain) 2. Goncalves (Husqvarna Rallye Team by Speedbrain) at 2’22”, 3. Przygonsky (KTM) at 7’33”, 4. Ullevalseter ( KTM) at 14’05”, 5. Viladoms (Bordone Ferrari) at 28’07”

Overall standings After Stage Three:

1. Barreda (Husqvarna) , 2. Goncalves (Husqvarna) at 5’39”, 3. Przygonsky (KTM) at 12’44”, 4. Ullevalseter (KTM) at 26’19”, 5.Viladoms (Bordone Ferrari) at 31’58”