The international rally world is bracing for a decisive showdown in the Middle East. From November 6 to 8, the Qatar International Baja will host the penultimate round of both the FIA World Baja Cup and the FIM Bajas World Cup. The desert surrounding Lusail promises to be a true test, with the world’s elite at the start line, joined by several Dutch competitors.
World-class car line-up and a local legend
In the FIA’s top-tier Ultimate category, Argentine driver Juan Cruz Yacopini is defending his lead in the championship standings. Although he has built a comfortable points buffer, experienced rivals like Miroslav Zapletal and Martin Prokop are still within striking distance. Also lining up is the defending champion, Kyrgyz Mini driver Denis Krotov, while Saudi driver Dania Akeel completes the shortlist of serious contenders for the overall win.
On home soil, much of the spotlight naturally falls on Nasser Al-Attiyah. The Dakar legend is opting to compete in the Challenger category this time, behind the wheel of a Taurus T3. He’ll go head-to-head with his cousin Khalifa Al-Attiyah and other strong contenders from the QMMF Team. Despite choosing a lighter class of vehicle, expectations are high that Nasser will still feature prominently in the overall results.
Van den Brink on course for the SSV title
One of the most exciting title battles may be decided in favor of a Dutchman. Mitchel van den Brink arrives in Qatar with a solid lead in the SSV championship. Teaming up with trusted navigator Bart van Heun, he drives a Can-Am Maverick R, maintained by South Racing. The young driver from Harskamp has had an outstanding season and could mathematically clinch the world title this weekend.
Also competing is Erik van Loon, who returns to Baja racing after previous appearances in the World Rally-Raid Championship. He too is piloting a Can-Am, alongside co-driver Wouter Rosegaar. Both men have plenty of experience with the conditions in Qatar. Adding an intriguing family duel to the mix is Anja van Loon, who will also start the rally, navigated by Hein Verschuuren. Unlike last year, she won’t be in the Challenger class, but will instead compete directly against her husband in the same SSV category.
One Dutch rider among the bikes
While the Netherlands has a strong presence in the car and SSV classes, its representation in the bike category is more limited. Still, one orange helmet will be visible in the Qatari sands. Luc Dumore will compete aboard a Husqvarna FE450 in the FIM competition. For Dumore, the event offers a chance to measure himself against a highly international field that includes seasoned riders such as Mohammed Al-Balooshi, Rafic Eid, and Konrad Dabrowski.
Al-Balooshi, a two-time Qatar Baja winner, leads the overall standings and is determined to retain his world title. Dabrowski, representing the Duust Rally Team, poses the biggest threat. Notably absent is the current leader in the FIM Junior standings, creating opportunities for contenders like Dabrowski to gain ground. In the women’s category, things are also heating up, with Joanna Modrzewska and Kuwait’s Sarah Khuraibet both aiming to close the gap to leader Alona Ben Natan.
The route and the battleground
The rally begins on Thursday with a prologue to determine the starting order for the two main stages on Friday and Saturday. In total, over 770 kilometers await the competitors, including more than 450 kilometers against the clock. The route winds through the endless flats and dunes of the Qatari desert. Adding to the prestige this year is the ceremonial start, which will take place on Doha’s iconic Corniche.
Everything is in place for a spectacular and decisive rally. Mitchel van den Brink could be crowned SSV world champion, while Erik and Anja van Loon go head-to-head in the same category. Meanwhile, Luc Dumore will have the chance to prove himself among the world’s best on two wheels.
Follow RallyTracks for all updates
RallyTracks.nl will cover all the developments in Qatar day by day. With daily updates, results, and stories from the bivouac, rally fans will stay informed of all the latest news, especially when it comes to the Dutch competitors. The Qatar International Baja is the build-up to the season finale in Dubai, but it may already prove decisive in several championship battles.
Stay tuned for everything on Mitchel, Erik, Anja, Luc, and the international rally elit, straight from the sands of Lusail.
