A 1958 Citroën 2CV Prepares for an Adventurous Raid in Morocco
In the quaint town of Val-de-Scie, located in Seine-Maritime, members of the Méhari 2CV Club of Normandy are diligently preparing a classic 1958 Citroën 2CV for an exciting journey—an anticipated 2CV raid across Morocco set to take place from November 1 to November 12, 2026. This endeavor is not merely a mechanical challenge; it is a profound adventure that promises to blend the thrill of off-road driving with rich human experiences. The Normandy crew is excitedly gearing up for what they hope will be a spectacular expedition.
This 2CV, originally manufactured in 1958 and accustomed to the rainy weather of Normandy, is about to face the sandy trails of Morocco. The project, which started as a whimsical idea, has gradually transformed into a well-organized mission. The members of the club have attached great importance to this event, as it is not just about traversing from one point to another; it is about joining an international caravan of enthusiasts on the Moroccan terrain, driving a meticulously prepared 2CV designed for desert conditions. The goal of the Méhari 2CV Club of Normandy is to successfully transport this iconic vehicle from Val-de-Scie to the starting point of the 2CV raid in Morocco.
Normandy Club Sets Off for a Unique Moroccan Adventure
The initiative by the club stemmed from a somewhat audacious plan centered around an older model of the 2CV. As the idea gained traction, the reality of preparing this vehicle for a journey beyond the familiar routes of Normandy became evident. Throughout the year, members engage in various gatherings and drives, fostering a vibrant community of 2CV aficionados, as they shared with the media the excitement surrounding this upcoming adventure, which serves as a reunion for many.
The raid is scheduled for November 1 to November 12, 2026, and is often referred to as the Raid Tigri. A total of thirty-six teams from diverse countries—including Portugal, Italy, Bulgaria, Belgium, France, Germany, and Spain—are expected to participate. The event includes a support system to assist participants throughout the journey. Among the drivers will be Lucie Maruitte and Justin Cannessant, prominent figures within the Normandy club. However, the primary focus for the Normans is not solely competition; rather, it is about celebrating their shared passion and providing an opportunity to experience Morocco in a unique way, all while driving a beloved classic.
This 1958 Citroën is not just any vintage car pulled from a barn; it has been carefully restored with parts sourced from various places and meticulously refurbished. Most of the preparation work has been undertaken by Justin Cannessant, with assistance from fellow club members. Every element, from the bodywork and mechanics to interior fittings and suspension components, has been thoroughly optimized for the rugged Moroccan terrain. The team is committed to maintaining the spirit of the 2CV while ensuring it is capable of handling challenges far beyond the gentle roads of Normandy.
With the mechanical preparations nearing completion, the crew must also acquire new skills for navigating the Moroccan landscape, learning to handle sandy trails that differ significantly from their usual driving conditions. "A new driving style, a fresh challenge, and mastering navigation," they summarize their preparations. The 2CV raids in Morocco are characterized not by speed but as adventures of driving and navigation, covering extensive distances with numerous stages through isolated areas. Only Citroën 2CVs and their derivatives, such as the Dyane, Méhari, or Ami, are permitted, staying true to the mechanical spirit of the event. The preparation process has already fostered numerous connections, as the club members have gathered parts from fellow enthusiasts and even created custom pieces for this project. As the final details are fine-tuned one by one, this little 2CV will carry the collective passion of the team when it leaves Normandy for Morocco, embodying the spirit of the Méhari 2CV Club of Normandy and their desire to showcase a legendary vehicle beyond its usual borders.
As reported by autojournal.fr.
