The Amul – Hazar 2018 rally raid started in the administrative center of Lebap province. On the eve of the competition, the crews underwent administrative checks and technical inspections, reviewed the course and received the race map containing the route list and the map of the area crossed by the rally course. Under the regulations of the rally raid, the parc fermé with restricted access was created in the paddock where the crews brought their vehicles early in the morning. Embarking on their journey towards the starting line, the participants began preparations for the prologue, a qualification round that determines the starting order at the first stage of the rally. The prologue covers the distance of 9 km. The motorcade of the President of Turkmenistan arrived at the venue of the official start of the race where the crews, technical staff, event organizers and supervisors, reporters and numerous guests gathered. The chair of the National Parliament, vice premiers, heads of military and law enforcement authorities and the governor of Lebap province were among the attendees. President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov congratulated everyone on the start of the rally and opened the prologue, racing with number 10 on his sports car along the special track to once again demonstrate his brilliant driving skills. Then President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov spoke with the director general of the Africa Eco Race who was involved in implementing the Amul – Hazar 2018 project, Jean-Louis Schlesser.