BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Dakar Rally leader Carlos Sainz abandoned the race Thursday after his Volkswagen careened into a ravine. He was not believed to have been seriously injured.

Sainz, a two-time world rally champion, and French co-pilot Michel Perin were taken by helicopter to Fiambala, where the 12th stage had begun, the Dakar Rally's Web site said.

According to the site, Perin may have injured his shoulder after the accident at the 79-kilometer (49-mile) mark of the 253-kilometer (157-mile) stage from Fiambala to La Rioja.

Sainz, who had won six of the 10 stages so far, began Thursday's stage more than 27 minutes ahead of Volkswagen teammate Mark Miller of the United States and 41:13 ahead of Giniel De Villiers of South Africa.

The Spaniard was in third place at the first checkpoint, 43 seconds behind Miller after 62 kilometers (39 miles). Miller was leading at the second checkpoint.