In a landmark moment for African motorsport, South Africa is set to host Round 3 of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) from 18 to 22 May in the rugged and diverse terrain of the North West Province. More than just a race, the SA Safari Rally is a statement of intent — showcasing the nation’s capability, resilience and world-class motorsport infrastructure as it prepares to welcome the rally-raid elite in partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing.
But behind the roaring engines and dramatic dust trails lies an immense operation driven by passion, precision and people. As South Africa prepares to put its best foot forward, we spoke exclusively to Archie Rutherford, CEO of the SA Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC), for a glimpse behind the curtain of this historic undertaking.
“This is no ordinary race,” Rutherford emphasises. “To be included in the same championship as the Dakar Rally is an achievement that South Africans should be incredibly proud of.”
Indeed, South Africa’s inclusion in the W2RC calendar is a bold affirmation of its rally-raid credentials. More than half the field is made up of South African-built vehicles — a testament to the nation’s thriving motorsport engineering industry.
“Most of the top-performing Dakar cars are built here. This event shines a global spotlight on our local talent, technical expertise and manufacturing excellence,” adds Rutherford.
A Route Forged Through Grit and Community
Mapping the rally’s 1,200km route was no easy feat. Carving through farmland, bushveld, savannah and ancient dry riverbeds, the route demanded both physical endurance and logistical ingenuity. A team of nearly 100 people, including local residents, worked tirelessly to clear and prepare the course — an effort made even more challenging by recent heavy rains.
“Getting the route ready, especially for motorcycles, has been a huge task. We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of landowners and communities,” Rutherford says.
The Global Motorsport Machine Arrives
Hosting an international rally of this magnitude also means coordinating a formidable logistics operation. With 100 competitors from 28 countries, vehicles have been shipped via Durban Harbour — a total of 34 containers filled with rally cars, bikes, quads and support equipment. While some teams have flown in their gear, the bulk is being transported to Sun City, where the build-up begins on 9 May. Teams will start arriving by the 11th, ready to test their vehicles and prepare for the five-day spectacle.
High-Tech Infrastructure Meets African Terrain
For a seamless experience, both for teams and fans worldwide, the event has partnered with Clear Access, a leading South African internet connectivity provider. Their role is crucial in ensuring stable digital infrastructure — from on-site operations to global streaming services.
Meanwhile, Jonsson Workwear steps in as the official clothing supplier, and Ingco Tools will provide tools and washbay equipment — all essential in maintaining a professional, high-performance environment across the bivouac.
Safety Without Compromise
As with all FIA- and FIM-sanctioned events, the SA Safari Rally must meet rigorous international safety standards. The event will deploy two air ambulances, eight 4×4 medical vehicles, and a fully equipped field medical centre with seven doctors and 16 paramedics on standby.
“Safety is non-negotiable,” Rutherford affirms. “The FIA and FIM have high standards, and we’re meeting every one of them.”
A Star-Studded Line-Up and a Stage Set for Legacy
The entry list reads like a roll-call of rally-raid royalty: Nasser Al-Attiyah, reigning W2RC champion; Giniel de Villiers, South Africa’s own Dakar legend; and Ross Branch, Botswana’s celebrated “Kalahari Ferrari”, among many others. Their presence promises not only thrilling action but also invaluable exposure for local talent.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our South African drivers,” says Rutherford. “To share the stage — and the bivouac — with the world’s best, right here at home, is something truly special.”
The Bigger Picture: More to Come?
Could this be a springboard to even bigger events for South Africa? Rutherford is optimistic.
“This is the largest FIA-sanctioned motorsport event in South Africa since the 1993 Formula 1 Grand Prix at Kyalami,” he says. “We’ll have top FIA and FIM officials present. If we deliver, and I believe we will, there’s no reason why we can’t attract Formula 1 or MotoGP in the future.”
Be Part of the Action
The SA Safari Rally is designed to be spectator-friendly. While the Marathon Phase on Wednesday and Thursday will be off-limits, fans can catch the action from designated free spectator points throughout the event. For a more immersive experience, Pit tickets — offering exclusive behind-the-scenes access to teams and vehicles — are available through TicketPro at R850 for adults, with children under 12 enjoying half-price entry.
As the engines rev and anticipation builds, South Africa is ready — not just to host a race, but to make history. With world-class competition, African spirit and a vision for the future, the 2025 SA Safari Rally promises to be a motorsport milestone that the continent, and the world, won’t soon forget.
