The Italian Baja is back. After a brief absence, the rally returned in 2025 as part of the FIA World Baja Cup championship. Four intense days around Pordenone, with competitors from over 30 countries, delivered a thrilling and closely contested battle.
Overdrive Racing Dominates: Yacopini and Kaczmarski Go 1-2
The spotlight was firmly on the Overdrive Racing Team. Argentine driver Juan Cruz Yacopini, navigated by Spaniard Daniel Oliveras, won every single stage—despite suffering a puncture and incurring a time penalty. His teammate, Martin Kaczmarski from Poland, with Armand Monleón calling the notes, drove from the back of the field to an impressive second place.
“We won everything—from the prologue to the final stage. Despite a few setbacks, the feeling was great throughout. Now, on to Spain,” said a proud Yacopini.
Overall Top 3
- Juan Cruz Yacopini (ARG) – Toyota Hilux – 5:40:40
- Martin Kaczmarski (POL) – Toyota Hilux – +6:10
- Benediktas Vanagas (LTU) – Toyota Hilux – +7:16
Dutch Standouts: Van den Brink and Van Heun Clinch SSV Victory
All Dutch eyes were on Mitchel van den Brink and Bart van Heun, competing in the SSV class with a Can-Am Maverick R from the South Racing factory team. After major setbacks on Friday—including a blown turbo and no engine power—the duo fought back hard on Saturday to win the SSV1 class and take 6th place overall in the SSV category.
“We didn’t make it easy for ourselves. From dust to flat tires, and even running without 4×4… yet we won every stage. This is why we race,” said Mitchel.
The victory has only fueled their hunger. The pair are now fully focused on taking the overall World Cup title. Their next stop: Baja Aragón in Spain (July 25–27).
World-Class Field and Four Championships in One Rally
The 2025 Italian Baja was more than just an FIA rally. It simultaneously counted toward the European Championship, the Italian national series, and the Hungarian championship. In total, 80 teams from 30 countries and 3 continents lined up at the start. A standout moment was the triple run over the 120 km Tagliamento stage on Saturday, where rain and rocks turned the terrain into a real challenge.
A Race in Mourning: Tribute to Matteo Doretto
The rally’s return to World Cup status took on a somber note following the tragic death of young Italian competitor Matteo Doretto during pre-event preparations. As a tribute, every start was delayed by exactly one minute throughout the event, including Saturday evening’s podium ceremony. A quiet yet powerful gesture of respect from the organizers.
In Summary
The 2025 Italian Baja delivered everything a top-tier rally should: world-class rivalries, heroic comebacks, technical drama, and deeply human moments. Its renewed FIA status is well-deserved—this rally belongs on the world stage.
