Dakar Rally cancelled because of terrorist fears

 "Based on the current international political tension and the murder of four French tourists last December 24 linked to a branch of al-Qaeda in Islamic Maghreb, but also and mainly the direct threats launched directly against the race by terrorist organisations, no other decision but the cancellation of the sporting event could be taken by ASO," the statement by the rally organisers read.

 On December 24, four French family members were shot to death in Mauritania by suspected Islamic terrorists who, according to authorities there, were linked to al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb.

 The group, which is based in Algeria, has carried out a number of bloody suicide bombings and has vowed to attack French interests and citizens.

 "ASO's first responsibility is to guarantee the safety of all: that of the populations in the countries visited, of the amateur and professional competitors, of the technical assistance personnel, of the journalists, partners and rally collaborators," the statement added.

 The race was cancelled a day after the government in Paris warned French citizens about traveling to Mauritania, where eight stages of the rally were to have been run, and cautioned organisers to consider calling off the race.

 "The foreign ministry has firmly advised all French citizens not to travel to Mauritania," government spokesman Laurent Wauquiez said late Thursday. "What goes for the French public also applies to the organisation of the Dakar Rally."

   On Friday, Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner added his own warning, telling RTL radio that Mauritania was dangerous.

 "We are warning (rally organisers): it is dangerous. It is a very unsafe region travelled by groups belonging to al-Qaeda (in the Islamic) Maghreb. I hope they will understand," Kouchner said.

 French race director Etienne Lavigne had been optimistic about running the event after Mauritanian authorities had promised to mobilise some 4,000 police and soldiers to monitor the rally.

 But organisers said that cancellation of the race did not threaten the future of the rally.

 "The Dakar is a symbol and nothing can destroy symbols," ASO said. "The cancellation of the 2008 edition does not endanger the future of the Dakar. To offer, for 2009, a new adventure to all the off-road rally passionates is a challenge that ASO will take on in the months to come."

DPA