Travel diary by Roberto Chiodi
May 22, 2025
First an engine failure, then a route error prompted two American competitors to look for a shortcut to the stage finish line. They ignored repeated signs – in Chinese – warning them to stay away, and so they ended up in prohibited military territory. Ryan and Isahia Salter, Datsun Z240, were stopped and interrogated to determine whether their behavior could lead to charges that are considered an extremely serious crime in China.
The crew has shown its good faith, but the car will have to be carefully examined; it has a ZEBRA license plate, painted with black and white stripes, and on the hood stands out a large skull, a symbol of piracy.
As for the rally, a tough night first with a sandstorm then with a lashing rain. Very tough tests. The little Fiat held its positions, tired but it arrived. Tomorrow we go to altitude, twice over 3.500 meters, lots of dirt and killer potholes.
An alternative route is being studied. And above all, one that does not give rise to the suspicions of the Military Police.
