The second stage of the Addax Rally lived up fully to its reputation as the queen stage. Competitors faced an exhausting 389-kilometre challenge on Tuesday, cutting through the vast plains of Taouz, the dry riverbeds of Jdeid, and the treacherous dunes of Ramlia. Navigation once again proved to be the key to success. But endurance, both physical and mechanical, was pushed to the limit. The stage caused major shake-ups in the standings, ending in heartbreak for António Maio and redemption for Alessandro Botturi.
Navigation duel in the Sahara
Departing from the bivouac in Merzouga in the early morning, riders were soon met with the toughest test of the week. The terrain changed constantly: hard-packed tracks, loose gravel, dried-out oueds, and expansive sandy flats without clear landmarks. Navigation errors were a constant threat, and several top contenders struggled. Despite the challenge, the gaps at the front remained relatively small and the pace stayed high throughout the day.
Italian rider Alessandro Botturi delivered a composed and powerful performance. After receiving a frustrating time penalty on day one, the experienced Yamaha rider reminded everyone why he is seen as a serious contender. In five hours, forty-one minutes, and twenty-six seconds, he brought his Ténéré 700 Rally to the finish line first, securing a commanding stage victory. The result catapulted him to second overall, just three minutes and twenty-one seconds behind the new leader.
New leader, setbacks for the front-runners
For António Maio, the day turned into an emotional rollercoaster. The Portuguese rider started the stage strong and seemed well on track to defend his lead. But with just over fifty kilometres to go, disaster struck: a violent crash sent him hard to the ground. Despite the impact, he managed to remount and finish the stage in sixth place. However, back pain forced a hospital visit, and together with his team, he decided to withdraw from the rally. A crushing blow after his promising opening stage win.
Maio has returned to Portugal for further medical examination. His retirement completely reshuffles the standings and injects new life into the battle at the front.
Gallas and Wiedemann shine for Ténéré Spirit Experience
With Maio out of contention, Kevin Gallas seized the opportunity. The German rider, racing under the Ténéré Spirit Experience banner, finished second on the stage and took over the lead in the overall standings. He is closely trailed by Botturi, while teammate Mike Wiedemann wrapped up the day in third and now also holds third overall. This gives Yamaha a clean sweep of the top three after two days of racing, an exceptional achievement for a team that blends experience and young talent in the Moroccan sand.
Standings after two stages: Yamaha on top
After two gruelling stages, three Yamaha riders sit atop the standings. Kevin Gallas leads with a total time of 9 hours, 7 minutes, and 18 seconds. Botturi is close behind on 9:10:39, with Wiedemann rounding out the top three at 9:12:41. Javier Vega and Ignas Daunoravicius follow at a greater distance.
In the lighter RACE 1 category, Daunoravicius remains the rider to beat. The Lithuanian rider once again avoided mistakes and solidified his top-five position in the overall classification, proving that navigation skills and rhythm can be just as crucial as raw engine power.
Botturi rebounds, Yamaha fominates
For Alessandro Botturi, the stage win was not only a sporting comeback but also a mental triumph. After a frustrating Monday, he clawed his way back into contention and looks poised to continue his charge for the overall win. “It was tough, I didn’t feel my best, but the bike did everything I asked. This is how I want to race. I won’t give up, and I’m looking forward to the next stage,” said Botturi at the finish. Team manager Marc Bourgeois shared mixed emotions: “We’re incredibly proud of Botturi’s comeback. His experience and determination are priceless. At the same time, we’re deeply disappointed about António’s retirement. He proved his potential and was a role model for the team.”
Looking ahead to stage 3
Wednesday brings a 370-kilometre stage between Erfoud and Rissani, with extended sections of pure navigation across dried riverbeds and rocky tracks. It promises to be a true test of focus and directional sense. With three days remaining, the fight for the Addax Rally remains wide open.
