Competitors had to slow down on the 82-kilometer route at the seventh stage (SS7) of the Taklimakan Rally in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region due to a dust storm on Wednesday.

Despite the poor weather, Hoto Factory Racing Team's veteran Lithuanian rider Arunas Gelazninkas maintained a steady approach, overcoming multiple dunes to win Stage 7 in 1:10:9. However, his Czech teammate, Martin Michek, retained the overall lead.

While the motorcycle field saw a clear leader emerge, the car category remained fiercely competitive. Several top contenders, including Liu Yangui, Fan Gaoxiang and Tao Yongming, remained in close contention for the overall title.

The stage victory went to Duonai Shock Absorber Team's Zhu Guanghai and navigator Chen Qingkai, who finished in 1:03:29. The rally will pause for its final rest day Thursday before moving into the decisive stages in Makit County, Kashgar Prefecture.