Rally-Raid World Championship Returns to Morocco
The Rally-Raid World Championship is poised to captivate motorsport enthusiasts once again as the fourth race takes place amidst the breathtaking dunes of the Sahara Desert. This year's edition of the Rally Morocco is particularly significant, as it could potentially determine the championship title amidst a backdrop of heightened security concerns affecting the upcoming Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, scheduled for November 22-27, 2026.
With the recent cancellation of the Saudi Arabian rally due to safety issues, the stakes have been raised for participants in Morocco. The rally will unfold around the oasis town of Zagora, beginning on September 28, 2026, with a shakedown event in Agadir. Following this, competitors will navigate through the challenging terrains adjacent to the Atlas Mountains, culminating in a total distance of 2008 kilometers, with 1673 kilometers designated for timed stages. This year's rally promises to be a thrilling test of skill and endurance for all teams involved.
Key Competitors and Championship Dynamics
As the rally approaches, the competition intensifies between leading drivers, particularly Dacia teammates Sébastien Loeb and Nasser Al-Attiyah, who are separated by just three points in the championship standings. Al-Attiyah, who secured his sixth title at the Dakar Rally earlier this year, faces a fierce challenge from Loeb, who recently claimed victory at the Rally-Raid Portugal. The results from Morocco could prove pivotal in the battle for the Ultimate category championship title, making every stage of this rally crucial.
In the broader context of the championship, Toyota's Seth Quintero is close on the heels of the Dacia duo, while Ford's Nani Roma and Lucas Morares round out the top five competitors. The manufacturer standings currently see Dacia leading with 315 points, followed by Toyota and Ford at 250 and 175 points, respectively. As the teams prepare for the rigors of the Moroccan terrain, the anticipation builds for what is sure to be a thrilling showcase of rallying prowess.
As reported by speedweek.com.
