‰ÛÏIn Dakar there are many factors that you can't control so making predictions before the race is never a good thing to do," Quintanilla stressed.
"I have prepared well, have no injuries, I‰Ûªve had a great season in the world championship and have a great bike and team supporting me. I have all that I need to do well. Because of my successful world championship season there is a little extra pressure on me to do well, but I don‰Ûªt mind the pressure.
"This year‰Ûªs event will be difficult, with many fast riders hoping to do well. I am sure that this year we will see what Marc Coma believes is a true rally. I feel confident in my navigational skills in the open deserts, and also on the mountain tracks, so I am looking forward to the challenge. It‰Ûªs always hard to have an exact plan for Dakar, you have to let the race come to you. Of course my goals get harder to achieve each year, after finishing on the podium the next step is an obvious one for most riders. Dakar is a special race, an incredible experience, and together with my team we will do all we can to get the best result possible.‰Û