With an improved Can-Am Maverick R, Erik and Anja van Loon will compete in two more races at the end of the season. First up is the Qatar International Baja, taking place from November 6 to 8, followed two weeks later by the Baja Dubai. Erik will team up with Wouter Rosegaar as his co-driver, aiming for a podium finish in Qatar despite a strong field of competitors. Anja will race for the first time with Hein Verschuuren as her navigator.
Erik is eager to get back behind the wheel. “It’s been a while since we last raced. South Racing has worked hard to improve the brakes on these Can-Ams. Due to regulations, there were restrictions that didn’t feel right for fast gravel rallies. That should be better now, so we’re going for it. The SSV class has many fast drivers, but we want to make our mark. We’re aiming for the podium! Two weeks later, we’ll head to Dubai to wrap up the season.”
For Anja, this will be her first off-road rally since the Dakar. “So, it’s my first time racing the Can-Am this season, and I’m really looking forward to it. In Qatar, I’ll start with Hein beside me for the first time. He has a lot of experience, so I hope to learn a lot. In Dubai, Floor will navigate again. For me, the goal is simply to finish and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Last year, I won the Challenger class in Qatar, but with so many strong competitors in the SSV class, repeating that isn’t realistic.”
The Qatar International Baja kicks off on Thursday, November 6, with a short 10-kilometer prologue that determines the starting order for the next day. On Friday, the first stage consists of three sections totaling 219 kilometers. The second and final stage takes place on Saturday, divided into five sections covering 234 kilometers. Erik and Wouter will race under number 407, while Anja and Hein will compete with number 418 in their Can-Am.
