Stage 4 of the 2025 Rallye du Maroc, a 378-kilometer loop around the bivouac in Erfoud, delivered a mix of triumph and tragedy for the Dutch competitors. While the top of the leaderboard continued to solidify with big names like Schareina, Loeb, and Macik, the Dutch camp experienced heroic efforts, harsh misfortune, and above all: relentless determination.
Schareina in control as Sanders slips back
In the motorcycle category, Tosha Schareina (Monster Energy Honda) claimed his third consecutive stage victory. Riding a flawless stage, the Spaniard took over the overall lead from Daniel Sanders, who admitted to making poor navigational decisions. In Rally2, Michael Docherty (BAS World KTM) dropped from second overall to third, overtaken by Konrad Dabrowski, while Edgar Canet maintained his lead. In Rally3, Noa Sainct secured another win and with it the top spot, overtaking the injured Thomas Zoldos.
Among the Dutch riders, Ian Olthof took a crucial step toward qualifying for the Dakar. Despite a tough day, he made it to the finish and looked ahead with confidence: “Navigating at speed is a whole different game. But I’m glad I came here, it’s exactly what I needed for Dakar. Yesterday I was able to push a bit more again, and for the first time in days I was smiling on the bike.”
Deen Munsters once again reached the finish line, proving that his adapted Honda and remarkable determination continue to stand strong in the Rally2 field. “I know why I’m doing this. Just making it to the finish, that’s my victory.”
Loeb extends his lead, Roma surprises
In the car category, it was Nani Roma who claimed his first stage win of the week. The experienced Spaniard kept Sébastien Loeb (Dacia) at bay, though the Frenchman managed to extend his overall lead. Lucas Moraes (Toyota) and Nasser Al Attiyah (Dacia) remain close behind, setting the stage for a championship showdown on the final day.
From the Netherlands, Janus van Kasteren (Century) and Roger Grouwels (Shiver Offroad) both finished solidly within the top 30. Michiel Becx, Mike van Eikeren, and Maik Willems also returned their vehicles to the bivouac without major issues. Unfortunately, Rik van den Brink suffered a major mechanical failure in his SRT Century, forcing him to retire.
Huzink crash halts rally, two crew injured
The Dutch camp was shaken late in the morning after news broke that the truck of Kay Huzink, Joël Ebbers, and Martin Roesink had suffered a serious crash following an unmarked drop-off in the roadbook. Both Ebbers and Roesink sustained back injuries and were airlifted to the hospital. Huzink escaped without injury. After finishing their own stage, Gert Huzink, Hugo Kupper, and Mario Kress decided to withdraw from the rally upon hearing the news:
“We’re now doing everything we can to get the guys home to the Netherlands as soon as possible. That’s where our focus is now.”
Klaassen drops back, Spierings climbs
In the Challenger class, Puck Klaassen (G Rally) stayed out of trouble, but her 14th place on the day meant a small drop in the overall standings. Paul Spierings (Rebellion Spierings), on the other hand, gained ground — finishing 12th and finding his rhythm in this ultra-competitive field. Kees Koolen and Jurgen van den Goorbergh (G-Ecko) delivered a solid ride to 10th place, while Lex Peters & Mark Salomons and Rine Streppel & Lisette Bakker once again reached the finish line.
Preview: all or nothing in the final stage
Stage 5, the final test of the 2025 Rallye du Maroc, will take competitors 310 kilometers south toward Merzouga. With 216 kilometers of special stage and the highly anticipated FIA Power Selective Section, a 31 km sprint, this finale promises tension and drama. Can Schareina defend his lead? Will Moraes snatch the world title? And will the remaining Dutch competitors hold strong until the final finish line?
One thing’s certain: the Rallye du Maroc 2025 isn’t over yet.
