Sainz beat Volkswagen teammate Mark Miller of the United States by 3 minutes, 41 seconds to secure his third stage win of the race. NASCAR star Robby Gordon was third in his Hummer, 4:13 back after the ride from Argentine city of Mendoza to Santiago, Chile's second largest city.
Overnight leader Giniel De Villiers of South Africa placed sixth and was second overall. De Villiers took the lead Thursday after Nasser Al Attiyah of Qatar was disqualified for missing two control points. Al Attiyah won the first and third stages of the race.
In the motorbike category, Chile's Francisco Lopez pleased the home fans by edging Marc Coma of Spain, who retained the overall lead ahead of Jonah Street of the United States.
Organizers shortened Friday's stage from 260 miles to 151 miles after drivers struggled with sand dunes on Thursday.
Defending champion Stephane Peterhansel of France had to put out a fire in the engine of his Mitsubishi after 35 miles. He was able to briefly resume racing before his engine broke down again, and appeared likely to abandon the race.
The rally is being held in South America for the first time after being canceled in 2008 because of the threat of terrorist attacks along its traditional route through Africa.
Casillas Denies Eto’o Again In ‘Iker Vs Nadal’ Charity Game
Barcelona President Laporta: Real Madrid Are Still Alive
Peterhansel abandons Dakar; Sainz back in front
Watkins Glen seeks Cup race sponsor
