Despite historic levels of rain and flooding in Morocco, which have claimed at least eighteen lives, the Baja Morocco Rally is still scheduled to take place from September 23 to 27.
The event will test participants across 1,250 km of Morocco’s challenging terrains, including the renowned Merzouga dunes.
The rally will start with three days of workshops conducted by Defender Rally Series professionals and Dakar rally participants, preparing drivers for the five-day race.
Competitors will drive Defender 90 vehicles, equipped with 300-horsepower engines and specialized systems for the harsh desert conditions.
Gonçalo Guerreiro, marking his first race in the desert and his debut in a Challenger-class vehicle, has announced that he will race a Taurus T3 Max for BBR Motorsport alongside Enio Bozzano.
To ensure safety amid the ongoing environmental challenges, the rally will be supported by a medical helicopter, off-road ambulances, and a professional safety team.
All vehicles will be tracked using the Stella system, which is also employed in Baja World Championships.
Organizers have confirmed that participants will experience ten nights of luxury accommodations in Arfoud and Merzouga.
Bowler Motors CEO Calum Mckechnie highlighted the event’s alignment with the adventurous spirit of the Defender Rally Series, while Baja Morocco organizer Chris Armalin praised the course designed by Seb Delanney for its exciting and progressively challenging route.
This rally is one of several major motor racing events hosted by Morocco, including the famous “Rally Aïcha des Gazelles” and the “Rally du Maroc,” as well as motorcycle races like the “Rally of Morocco” and the Morocco Desert Challenge.