Competitors line up ahead of the Rally Dakar 2011 which began in Buenos Aires, Argentina today. The event, which lasts for 15 days and features over 400 competitors, pitches drivers against 13 gruelling stages covering a total of 5,900 miles.

Stage 1 saw entrants leave Buenos Aires and the cheers of several thousand spectators, to head off in the direction of Victoria. Official timing begins tomorrow, after today's ceremonial stint.

Follow the action live on Dakar.com.