Motorsport Spotlight Turns to SA Ahead of World Rally-Raid Round

South Africa is set to make motorsport history as it hosts the third round of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) with the SA Safari Rally from May 18 to 24. This high-profile event promises more than just adrenaline-pumping action—it’s an opportunity to showcase local talent, rugged terrain, and world-class event delivery.

Presented in partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing, the inaugural SA Safari Rally marks a milestone for the country’s motorsport scene. “It’s a defining moment,” said Vic Maharaj, CEO of Motorsport South Africa. “This event will spotlight our motorsport capabilities and open doors to future global opportunities—possibly even Formula 1.”

SA-Made Machines Lead the Way

More than half of the vehicles in the competition are South African-made, highlighting the nation’s engineering prowess. Motorsport SA chairperson Anton Roux believes this could be the biggest international motorsport event hosted in the country since Formula 1 left Kyalami in 1993.

Archie Rutherford, CEO of the SA Rally-Raid Championship, said entries close at the end of April. “We’re expecting a powerful mix of local heroes and global stars on the grid,” he added.

Fan Favourites and Racing Legends Join the Lineup

Motorsport fans can expect major names, including Botswana’s Ross Branch, aka the “Kalahari Ferrari,” and Dakar Rally legend Giniel de Villiers, who is making a comeback with #TeamHiluxRallyRaid.

“Having Giniel back is a game changer,” said teammate Fouché Blignaut. “His experience and drive are unmatched.”

Qatari racing icon Nasser Al-Attiyah and co-driver Edouard Boulanger are also expected, alongside SA’s young talents like Saood Variawa, Guy Botterill, and reigning SA Rally Raid Champion Brian Baragwanath.

From Sun City to the Desert: An African Test of Grit

The rally will take competitors across diverse terrains—from the lush surroundings of Sun City to challenging desert dunes—offering a uniquely African backdrop to test the world’s best.

“This is the moment we’ve been working towards,” said Rutherford. “The global motorsport community is watching, and we’re almost ready.”

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Sourced:Bedfordview & Edenvale News

Picture: All Events