Morocco Historic Rally Launches in Casablanca
The highly anticipated 15th edition of the Morocco Historic Rally commenced on May 9 in Casablanca, attracting over 60 crews from 15 different countries. This thrilling event, celebrated under the esteemed High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, marks a significant highlight in the historic motorsport calendar of the region, showcasing the rich tapestry of automotive history against the backdrop of Morocco's breathtaking landscapes.
Beginning at the prestigious Automobile Club of Morocco Museum located on Bouskoura road, the rally sets the stage for an exhilarating week-long journey that will conclude on May 15. This year, participants will navigate an impressive route spanning approximately 1500 kilometers, which includes around 400 kilometers of timed special stages. The course winds through central Morocco, leading crews southward to some of the country’s most iconic destinations. Key points of interest along the route include the Khatouat massif, Bin El Ouidane, Azilal, and El Borouj, ultimately guiding them to the coastal beauty of Essaouira, the tranquil Paradis Plage near Agadir, and the historic charm of Sidi Ifni.
Rally Structure and Notable Participants
The 2026 edition of the rally introduces a meticulously structured format, divided into two primary phases. The first phase concentrates on the stunning Middle Atlas region, featuring stages that take participants around the picturesque Bin El Ouidane Lake and near the majestic Ouzoud waterfalls, alongside scenic routes through Azilal and Skhour Rhamna. Transitioning into the second phase, the rally shifts focus to the Anti-Atlas, where contenders will tackle one of the rally's most celebrated sections, the "Painted Rocks" two-stage in Tafraout, before proceeding toward Sidi Ifni and Massa. A well-deserved rest day is scheduled at Paradis Plage, allowing teams to recharge before the final leg of the competition.
The rally is a haven for classic car enthusiasts, featuring only historic vehicles that are categorized by their production eras. Participants can expect to see pioneer models from 1947 to 1971, the so-called “golden age” vehicles from 1972 to 1985, and the J2+ category encompassing models from 1986 to 1990, which are limited to two-wheel drive cars equipped with manual gearboxes. Throughout the event, teams will face a blend of technical stages, long-distance endurance challenges, and breathtaking scenic routes that highlight Morocco's diverse terrain. Notable drivers to keep an eye on include seasoned competitors such as Jean-Pierre Manzagol, Louis Antonini, Yoann Raffaelli, Elkadaoui Youness, and Patrick Chiappe, all of whom are set to make this year's rally an unforgettable experience.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
