[HummerMann]

Chile 13 Jan 2012 - The ultimate decision over Gordon?s fate with his racing Hummer H3 rests with motorsport?s governing body, the FIA. Some believe that the FIA is taking the extra close look at Gordon's Hummer because it has dominated the field in every respect, from handling, speed and navigation.

Gordon ? whose best finish so far in seven Dakar participations is third in the 2009 edition ? had won the ninth stage on Tuesday to cut Frenchman Peterhansel?s overall lead to just over five minutes ahead of Sunday?s finish in Lima.

It is believed that the stewards noticed the problem with his engine in checking it over after the stage ? which had seen his Hummer team-mate and defending champion Nasser Al-Attiyah forced to retire after another technical problem.

The stewards believe that Gordon?s modifying of the ventilation system linked to his engine improved its performance level ? he denies that his tinkering had an impact on improving its speed and is basing his appeal on that. Old time Dakar race fans are scratching their heads because this type of air induction system has been used several times before with no challenges by the FIA.