South Africa is on the cusp of a motorsport milestone. From 18 to 22 May 2025, the country will host its first-ever round of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) – the prestigious SA Safari Rally. This landmark event not only marks a monumental moment for local motorsport but also places Africa squarely on the global Rally-Raid stage.
Set against a backdrop of South Africa’s most rugged and visually arresting terrain, the SA Safari Rally promises a breathtaking yet brutal test of endurance, navigation, and technical mastery. Competitors from across the globe — including elite factory teams and international rally-raid stars — will descend upon Southern Africa to battle for critical championship points, and in some cases, a coveted ticket to Dakar.
“This is more than just a race,” says Gillian Dykes, FIM Africa Director and a member of the FIM Cross Country Commission. “It’s a showcase of Africa’s natural beauty, our organisational ability, and our deep reservoir of local talent. For many African riders, this event could be the long-awaited gateway to Dakar — without the usual financial and logistical barriers.”
A Global Stage with Local Heroes
In the motorcycle category, South African talent will shine brightly. Local contenders such as Dwain Barnard, Mauritz Meiring, Ruan Burger, and Carien Teessen will line up alongside international giants like Ricky Brabec, Skyler Howes, Adrien Van Beveren, and reigning world champion Ross Branch of Botswana.
The presence of factory-backed heavyweights like Honda, KTM, and Hero elevates the stakes and the spectacle, ensuring that the SA Safari Rally will deliver motorsport drama at the highest level.
“This rally is a game-changer,” says Vic Maharaj, CEO of Motorsport South Africa. “It’s not only a golden opportunity for African riders to earn W2RC points and Dakar eligibility — it’s also a catalyst for economic impact, from tourism to investment and local industry development.”
Building for the Future
The ripple effects of hosting a W2RC round are far-reaching. With Africa’s vast and untamed terrain, the continent is uniquely positioned to become a Rally-Raid powerhouse.
“The success of this rally could open the door for more FIM Africa nations to host world-class motorsport events,” Dykes notes. “The dream? A transnational rally-raid crossing two or three African countries. It’s ambitious — but absolutely achievable.”
That ambition is being matched by meticulous planning. Event organiser Archie Rutherford confirms that preparations are progressing on schedule, with logistics, route safety, and media operations all benchmarked against global standards. Strong support from both public and private sectors has further solidified the rally’s foundation.
Lowering the Barriers, Raising the Bar
Perhaps the most profound impact lies in accessibility. For African riders, international exposure has historically been stifled by prohibitive costs. The SA Safari Rally changes that equation.
“Expense is the biggest hurdle,” explains Dykes. “Competing in Morocco, Abu Dhabi, or South America is out of reach for many. By hosting the rally at home, we eliminate massive costs like travel and equipment rental. That means more African talent can compete, grow, and qualify for Dakar.”
Adding further weight to the rally’s significance is the confirmed attendance of FIM President Jorge Viegas and FIM Africa President. Their presence underscores the event’s global importance and signals a resounding vote of confidence in African motorsport.
“Their attendance sends a clear message,” Dykes says. “It recognises the tireless efforts of our organisers, volunteers, and officials. It says: ‘You matter. You’re ready. And the world is watching.’”
Training the Trailblazers
Before the engines roar to life, the SA Safari Rally will host a Continental Training Session from 14–15 May — a vital two-day technical seminar aimed at FIM Africa and Motorsport South Africa (MSA) officials. Led by Andres Zalazar from Argentina’s FIM Technical Commission, the session will focus on machine compliance, rider safety, and environmental stewardship.
“It’s about raising the bar across the continent,” says Dykes. “Well-trained officials take that knowledge home, and that elevates the standard of motorsport everywhere in Africa.”
Looking Beyond the Finish Line
As the countdown continues, there’s a growing sense that this rally is only the beginning. Building a robust Rally-Raid ecosystem in South Africa will require formal governance structures, collaboration with FIA’s automotive division, and — crucially — sustainable sponsorship models.
“This kind of motorsport is expensive,” Dykes admits. “But it offers incredible returns — from job creation to skills development and innovation. Motorsport can be a catalyst.”
In hosting the SA Safari Rally, South Africa is not just making motorsport history — it is laying the groundwork for a pan-African Rally-Raid revolution. The potential is vast, the passion is real, and from 18 to 22 May, the world will be watching Africa ride.
