The stage is set for one of the most thrilling finales in recent memory as the sixth and final round of the 2025 SA Rally-Raid Championship roars into action on 21 and 22 November at Koedoeskop School, just outside Thabazimbi. With only a handful of points separating the frontrunners, the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 promises an edge-of-your-seat showdown to crown this year’s champion.
This year’s championship has been nothing short of spectacular – fast-paced, fiercely competitive, and packed into a condensed six-month calendar following the FIA World Championship event earlier in the year. “It’s been hectic but exciting. The 2025 championship has highlighted the razor-thin margins that define this sport,” says SA Rally-Raid CEO Archie Rutherford.
At the heart of the drama are two standout contenders: Saood Variawa, the young Toyota star from Toyota Gazoo Racing, who’s been turning heads all season, and Gareth Wooldridge, the experienced Ford campaigner and 2023 Rally-Raid Champion in the Castrol NWM Ford Rally-Raid team. Not to be counted out is multiple Dakar competitor and local legend Giniel de Villiers, whose consistency could yet prove decisive. Rutherford adds, “For Giniel to win, he’ll need a little luck. But in rally-raid, anything can happen – even a single puncture could change the outcome. The last race was won by just 53 seconds over nearly 500 kilometres. That’s how close it is. The top two teams are separated by just three points – it’s incredibly tight, and next week’s grand finale will decide it all.”
Rutherford also acknowledges the championship’s key partners: “We’ve been fortunate to have incredible support from our sponsors throughout the season – Ford, iCam, Falken, and #TEAMHILUX – without whom the series simply wouldn’t be possible. Their commitment to the sport and to growing rally-raid in South Africa has been invaluable.”
A Rivalry Comes to a Head
The Ford versus Toyota rivalry has dominated headlines all season, and the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 will be the final chapter. “Ultimately, it’s going to come down to the team that stays calm under pressure. They are all incredibly talented. The driver and navigator who make the fewest mistakes will take the title,” Rutherford notes.
Into the Wild – The Bushveld Route
The Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 takes competitors deep into the Limpopo bushveld, weaving through game and hunting farms in terrain described by Race Director Evan Hutchison as “technical and exciting with dense vegetation.”
“What’s unique about this area is that there are very few straight sections. The roads are narrow, continually winding, and constantly changing – it’s going to keep competitors on their toes from start to finish,” says Hutchison.
Heat will play a major role in race strategy, with temperatures expected to climb into the high 30s or even 40s. “Drivers will have to manage their pace and endurance carefully. Because it’s the final event of the season, we’ve kept the route relatively short and enjoyable – a tough but fun send-off to a fantastic year.”
The return to Koedoeskop holds special significance. Flooding had prevented an earlier race here, making this comeback a chance to end the season in a breathtaking and challenging environment. For the first time, the event will feature a dedicated spectator point just 5 km from Koedoeskop School, offering families and fans multiple vantage points, shade, and amenities.
A Partnership Rooted in Community
Event sponsor Northam Zondereinde has nurtured its partnership with the championship over three years, focusing on initiatives that deliver lasting value to the local community. “Our inspiration stems from the opportunity to collaborate with local stakeholders and contribute to an event that unites and uplifts our communities,” says Danny Gonsalves, General Manager: Projects.
“Beyond the thrill, the event delivers real value to the region – boosting tourism, supporting local markets, and reinforcing our commitment to sustainable community welfare. We hope it inspires aspiring individuals to learn more about the sport and build their craft. To the larger community, come and join in the fun – the event will bring music, food, and diverse cultures together.”
The Final Countdown
With scenic yet demanding terrain, passionate local support, and national honours on the line, the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 promises to close the 2025 season in spectacular style. As engines fire up for one last time in Thabazimbi, anticipation is at fever pitch.
For fans unable to attend in person, live race tracking is available via the RallySafe app, providing every split and sector update in real time.
The clock is ticking, temperatures are rising, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Come 22 November, South Africa will know its 2025 Rally-Raid Champion – but until then, it’s anyone’s race.
Follow the action:
- Facebook: @sarallyraidchampionship
- Instagram: @sarallyraidchampionship
- YouTube: @SouthAfricanRallyRaidSARRC
