After an exhilarating journey spanning 6,000 kilometers of diverse roads and rugged trails, the teams participating in the 29th edition of the 4L Trophy have triumphantly reached Marrakech. The symbolic arrival into the city marked the culmination of their adventure, leading into a celebratory evening at the renowned venue, Chez Ali, on February 28. This article reflects on the grand finale of this remarkable event, highlighting the emotional reunion and the sense of accomplishment felt by all participants.
The Renault 4L vehicles, sporting the marks of sandy terrains and the hardships of Moroccan trails, finally found their way to the finish line at the Moulay Al Hassan circuit in Marrakech. As the teams crossed the threshold, a palpable mix of relief, fatigue, and joy filled the atmosphere, amplified by the presence of family and friends eagerly awaiting to welcome the adventurers back. Participants embraced their loved ones, exchanging stories of mechanical challenges and navigational feats with fellow competitors, while celebratory honks of their car horns echoed through the air, creating an unforgettable moment of camaraderie.
This pivotal moment served as a transition from the raw adventure experienced in the desert to the final marathon stage and the return to civilization. The focus shifted from timing and rankings to celebrating the culmination of months, and in some cases years, of dedicated effort towards this adventurous project. As reported by studyrama.com, the atmosphere at the Moulay Al Hassan circuit was charged with excitement, marking a significant milestone for the participants of the 4L Trophy.
On the evening of February 28, the festivities continued at Chez Ali, a traditional venue that provided a stark contrast to the arid landscapes of the Merzouga desert. The gala evening commenced with an awards ceremony, where the management of Désertours, along with sponsors and guests of this edition, gathered to congratulate the young adventurers on their accomplishments. Special guest Adilson Borges, General Director of the Rennes School of Business, a co-organizer of the 4L Trophy, expressed his gratitude to the students from the 4L Trophy coordination team for their hard work and dedication.
Notable figures from the media and entertainment industry, including content creators Dobby and Marcus, who took a break from filming 'Danse avec les Stars', as well as sports enthusiast and adventure host Denis Brogniart, announced the winners of the event. The excitement reached its peak with the announcement of Ange and Valentin from Marseille as the grand winners of this edition. They shared the podium with other remarkable teams, including the best all-female and international crews, celebrating their outstanding achievements in a spirit of unity and competition.
After a sumptuous dinner reflecting Moroccan hospitality, the evening transitioned into a vibrant celebration with musical performances featuring DJ Morgan Nagoya from NRJ and DJ Sabado, complemented by a dazzling display of fireworks that captivated all attendees. The participants reveled in the festivities, forging new friendships along the journey and promising to maintain contact as they returned to their respective homes.
The 4L Trophy is not just a race; it embodies a spirit of solidarity and community engagement. Teams contributed to a noble cause by bringing non-perishable food items to the Village Departure, resulting in an impressive collection of 10 tons of food. This generous donation will provide approximately 20,000 meals to families in need through the French Red Cross. Additionally, the association Enfants du Désert prioritizes education, and thanks to the contributions from the participants, two new classrooms are in the process of being funded for the school in Merzouga.
As the adventure continues to inspire, anticipation for the next edition of the 4L Trophy in 2027 is already building. The upcoming 30th edition promises new challenges, innovative experiences, and surprises for the next generation of adventurers eager to take part in this iconic event. Pre-registration for the 2027 edition will occur from February 17 to February 28, offering participants the chance to secure their spots and access exclusive benefits, ensuring they are well-prepared for their upcoming journey.
