The 25th edition of the Rallye du Maroc, the final stage of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), will see the participation of top international and Arab racing stars. Announced by organizers in Marrakech, this prestigious event is held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI and promises to deliver intense competition and excitement.
Covering a total distance of 2,468 kilometers, with 1,512 kilometers of special stages, this year’s Rallye du Maroc is shaping up to be an unforgettable race. During a press conference, organizers highlighted the challenging nature of the course and the high level of competition between participants.
At the forefront is Qatari star Nasser Al-Attiyah, currently leading the overall World Championship standings. He will face fierce competition from Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al-Rajhi, last year’s Rallye du Maroc winner, and fellow Saudi Yasser Bin Saedan, who is aiming for a world title in the light vehicle (SSV) category.
The rally will also feature renowned international drivers such as Spain’s Carlos Sainz driving a new Ford vehicle, French champion Sébastien Loeb behind the wheel of a Dacia, as well as Brazil’s Lucas Moraes, Saudi star Dania Aqeel, and Qatari Ahmed Fahad Al-Kuwari.
A total of 271 vehicles will take part in the rally, including 126 FIA-compliant cars and 136 motorcycles affiliated with the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM), representing 28 countries.
David Castera, director of the Rallye du Maroc, emphasized that this year’s event will introduce competitors to a new route across Morocco. He noted that the rally is a success not only because of the participation of high-profile contenders but also due to the involvement of a Moroccan team in both car and motorcycle categories. This provides local talent with the opportunity to compete against the world’s top racers.
In the auto category, a heated battle is expected, with Nasser Al-Attiyah determined to secure the championship while driving for the Dacia Sandriders team. “This rally is crucial as it’s the final stage of the World Championship,” Al-Attiyah said, adding that he aims to win in Morocco and clinch the world title.
Saudi driver Yazeed Al-Rajhi, the reigning champion of the Rallye du Maroc, expressed his excitement about defending his title this year, acknowledging the fierce competition he will face.
Morocco will be represented by the “Africa Rally Team,” featuring the duo Jawhara Bennani and Amine Guessous in the “Challenge” category, alongside Ali Obassi and Hanane Amraoui in the “Open” category. Additionally, Soleiman Al Dhahri is competing in the “Rally 3” category, hoping to improve on his third-place finish from last year.
