Hillston's Toby Price was first at the scene of the crash and stayed with Goncalves for more than an hour helping the medical team at the site.

" I come over a small crest and seen a rider down and was Paulo," he posted on social media.

" Worst fears kicked in cause I knew this one was serious. I called for help ASAP and helped get him on his side (plus more serious checks).

"We all worked as long as we could but there was nothing we could do. I helped assist carrying him to the helicopter as it was the right thing to do. I was first at his side and wanted to be the last to leave."

Goncalves, 40, was airlifted to hospital and subsequently pronounced dead. Monday's stage eight of the rally has been cancelled in a mark of mourning by Dakar participants.

Several riders including Kevin Benavides, Price and Stefan Svitko stopped to assist Goncalves.

They were all subsequently awarded time by rally organisers with Benavides winning the stage on the adjusted time.

"Worst day for the rally sport," Price stated.

"Rest and ride in peace Pablo Goncalves you will be missed by many.

"Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. This one hurts and is tough to swallow."

Price was was awarded a time of just 7 minutes 57 seconds behind Benavides to be seventh on the day and fourth overall 29 minutes behind leader Ricky Brabec.

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