Home » Preview of the Saudi Baja Hail: Top Contenders, Debutants, and locals

Preview of the Saudi Baja Hail: Top Contenders, Debutants, and locals

From January 30 to February 1, 2025, the rugged landscapes of Saudi Arabia will once again be the backdrop for a rally, this time the Saudi Baja Hail. As part of the FIA Baja World Cup championship, the rally brings together top drivers from around the world, including two Dutch teams. Here’s a preview of the favorites and notable participants.

The Saudi Baja Hail 2025 kicks off on Thursday, Jan. 30, with a festive ceremonial start, followed by a short and fast prologue where fans can experience the action up close. On Friday, Jan. 31, the first full stage is scheduled, while Saturday, Feb. 1, is the second and final stage, concluding with an awards ceremony in Al Meghawat.

Top Contenders in the T1+ Class

In the T1+ category, the fastest vehicles compete for victory. Local star Yazeed Alrajhi, teamed up with experienced German navigator Timo Gottschalk, leads the field in their Toyota Hilux Overdrive. Another strong contender is Argentina’s Juan Cruz Yacopini, partnered with Spain’s Daniel Oliveras, also driving a Toyota Hilux.

Other key names include Miroslav Zapletal (Czech Republic) and Denis Krotov (Russia), driving a Ford F150 Evo and an X-Raid Mini JCW, respectively. These seasoned drivers have proven their speed on the challenging Baja routes.

A standout participant is Saudi Arabia’s own Dania Akeel. Alongside her French navigator Stephane Duple, she represents local pride in a Toyota Hilux Overdrive. Her presence highlights the growing role of women in rallying.

Thrills in the T3 and T4 Classes

The T3 category (Challengers) promises intense competition. Dutch participants Gerben Heisterkamp and Wesley Aaldering will defend their nation’s honor in a Can-Am Maverick R. In the T4 category (SSVs), the favorites for victory include Dutchman Erik van Loon and Argentine Fernando Alvarez. Van Loon will race in a Can-Am, reuniting with his former navigator Wouter Rosegaar, with whom he secured 4th place in the 2015 Dakar Rally.

Other prominent names in these categories include Khalifa Al-Attiya and Saleh Alsaif, who will undoubtedly draw plenty of attention with their teams.

Local Favorites in the T2 Class

The T2 class, featuring modified ‘standard’ vehicles, is dominated by Nissan Patrols. Drivers like Majed Althunayy and Abdullah Al-Rabban aim to secure the title for Saudi Arabia. This category requires not only speed but also technical skill and vehicle reliability.

Motorcycles and Quads: Pure Adventure

In the motorcycle division, Emirati Mohammed Al Balooshi, riding a Husqvarna, leads the field. Other notable participants include Alex McInnes (United Kingdom) and Sultan Ali Alblooshi (UAE), both strong contenders for a podium finish. Among the quad riders, local talents like Abdulaziz Alshammari aim to showcase their skills on the Yamaha Raptor 700.

A Promising Edition

With over 70 entries across various categories and a diverse course that makes the most of Hail’s desert landscapes, the Saudi Baja Hail 2025 promises to be a spectacular event. Local heroes, international stars, and exciting debutants make this a race not to be missed. Who will cross the finish line as the winner? The countdown has begun!

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