Born from the combined visions of off-road rallying icons Jean-Louis Schlesser and René Metge, the Africa Eco Race was conceived in 2008, reigniting the spirit of Africa’s legendary rallies. Inspired by the pioneering spirit of Thierry Sabine, the race aimed to rediscover the African continent’s rugged beauty, leading participants to the iconic Pink Lake in Dakar. Emphasizing human connection, authenticity, solidarity, and sportsmanship, the event sought to make this extraordinary adventure accessible, simplifying regulations to welcome a broader array of competitors to the mythical finish line.

Since its first edition in 2009, the Africa Eco Race has experienced a yearly increase in participants, affirming the lasting appeal of a rally deeply rooted in traditional values. This event offers an immersive experience, focusing on navigation and driving skills amid the unforgettable landscapes that only Africa can provide. It celebrates endurance, agility, the continent’s vast cultural legacy, and the adventurous spirit that calls for explorers worldwide.

The 15th edition of the Africa Eco Race in 2024 was a magnificent tribute to human tenacity, adventure, and the profound sense of solidarity among endurance racers. Spanning Morocco’s rugged landscapes and Mauritania’s vast deserts and culminating at Senegal’s iconic Lac Rose, this year’s race challenged participants with some of the most demanding terrains on earth. Beyond the competition, the 2024 edition emerged as a profound journey of self-discovery, strategic prowess, and mutual respect among riders from diverse backgrounds.

From the engines’ initial roar to the Lac Rose’s final stretch, the event transcended mere racing, embodying the essence of adventure and the shared human endeavor to conquer the unforgiving Sahara. Italian Jacopo Cerutti’s blistering pace in the first stage, alongside every competitor’s battle against the elements, highlighted the triumphs, trials, and enduring bonds forged along the way.

The Africa Eco Race 2024, by intertwining the legacy of its founders with the ambitions of modern adventurers, continued to write new chapters in the annals of rally racing. It is a vibrant celebration of the past, present, and future of rallying, inviting all drawn to the allure of the African terrain and the camaraderie of the open road.

Stage 1: Nador to Boudnib

The Dawn of a New Challenge & A Roaring Start

As the sun rose over Nador, the Africa Eco Race 2024 commenced, beginning an extraordinary adventure. The first stage, stretching from Nador to Boudnib, was a dance through the Moroccan landscape, testing the riders’ resolve and determination. Italian Jacopo Cerutti, on his Aprilia Touareg 660, set a blistering pace, completing the 107.497 mi (173 km) particular stage in a remarkable 01:54:09. This feat was a display of skill and determination, edging out Yamaha riders Alessandro Botturi and Pol Tarres. Cerutti’s victory signaled Aprilia’s impressive return to offroad rallies, showcasing mastery over rolling terrain with frequent direction changes demanding agility and strategy

Stage 2: Boudnib to Mhamid

A Test of Endurance, Spirit, and Mixed Emotions

Continuing from Boudnib to Mhamid, a challenging 237.985 mi (383km) stretch, was a poignant blend of somber emotions and rigorous competition. The passing of rally legend René Metge cast a shadow of mourning over the race, yet the riders pressed on, honoring his legacy with a display of resilience and fortitude. Facing the dual challenges of sub-zero temperatures at dawn and the emotional weight of the day, the riders embarked on a journey that tested more than just their physical capabilities.

As they navigated through the demanding terrain, the spirit of the rally was palpable – it was about endurance in the face of emotional and physical adversity. Maintaining his lead, Cerutti was closely followed by Botturi and Tarres, who together showcased an incredible average speed of 92km/h.

Fundamentally, this stage transcended mere competition; it served as both a homage and a validation of the Africa Eco Race’s persistent spirit. Here, riders surpass individual hurdles and come together amidst adversity, capturing the core of perseverance and fellowship inherent in rally racing.

Stage 3: Mhamid to Oued Draa

Confronting the Desert’s Might and Battling for Supremacy

This 287.695 mi ( 463km) journey from Mhamid to Oued Draa presented the riders with a dynamic and formidable challenge. As they traversed the demanding desert landscape, the race unfolded with dramatic twists and intense competition. Alessandro Botturi, showcasing remarkable resilience, emerged victorious, overcoming the navigational hurdles and a crash he and Jacopo Cerutti both endured.

This stage vividly illustrated the unpredictable nature of the Africa Eco Race. It highlighted the adaptability and fortitude of the riders as they navigated through the desert’s challenging terrain. The dramatic turns and the fierce battle for supremacy underscored the competitive spirit of the race. In their quest to conquer the desert, each rider demonstrated physical prowess, mental toughness, and strategic acumen.

Stage 4: Oued Draa to Fort Chacal

A Showcase of Cerutti’s Unwavering Dominance

The riders, spanning 290.18mi (467km) from Oued Draa to Fort Chacal, underscored Jacopo Cerutti’s remarkable skill and steadfast supremacy within the competition.
Once again, Cerutti emerged triumphant, marking his third consecutive stage win in a performance that was about much more than mere speed.

Cerutti’s strategy and endurance came to the forefront as the riders navigated the varied and demanding terrain. His skill as a rider and strategic insight were highlighted by his ability to keep a steady pace and navigate every obstacle along the route. This stage firmly shaped the race narrative, with Cerutti’s rivals trailing yet remaining fiercely competitive, highlighting the high level of competition and the strategic depth required to succeed in such a demanding event.

Cerutti’s command over the race was undeniable, as he skillfully managed the diverse challenges posed by the route to Fort Chacal. His performance in this stage reinforced his position as the frontrunner and underscored the intense rivalry and the tactical battles unfolding in the heart of the Africa Eco Race

Stage 5: Fort Chacal to Dakhla

A Fusion of Speed, Strategy, and Close Competition

This stage unfolded as a swift 251.034 mi (404km) race that became a defining moment in the saga of speed and strategic prowess. Alessandro Botturi, with determination and skill, clinched victory, demonstrating the intense competitive spirit that fuels the Africa Eco Race. Jacopo Cerutti and Pol Tarres, not far behind, crossed the finish line in a display almost synchronized in its precision, highlighting the razor-thin margins that separate the leaders.

As the stage transcended mere velocity, it was akin to a strategic duel on wheels, where the tactical choices of each rider significantly influenced the result. The close competition that has become the hallmark of this race was on full display as the top contenders matched each other move for the move across the challenging terrain. The race to Dakhla encapsulated the essence of the Africa Eco Race, combining high-speed action with the tactical depth that distinguishes endurance rally racing.

The riders prepared for the stages ahead. The day’s events set the stage for an escalating contest, promising more thrilling battles and strategic gameplay. The journey to Dakhla will be remembered as a pivotal chapter in the 2024 edition, where speed, strategy, and competitive spirit converge to create a memorable spectacle.

Stage 6: Dakhla to Chami

The Mauritanian Challenge Marks a New Adventure

As the Africa Eco Race 2024 ventured into Mauritania, the sixth stage from Dakhla to Chami presented the riders with a fresh set of challenges and a 127.381mi (205km) special stage that tested their mettle. Pol Tarres, with a triumphant finish, emerged victorious, heralding a significant shift in the race’s dynamics. This victory was a signal to all competitors that the battle for supremacy was intensifying with every mile.

While maintaining his lead, Jacopo Cerutti witnessed the gap between him and his rivals narrow, adding a layer of suspense and excitement to the competition.

This stage demonstrated the riders’ strategic savvy and adaptability as they navigated through unknown terrains and addressed the uncertainties of the Mauritanian landscape.

The journey from Dakhla to Chami encapsulated the essence of adventure and the spirit of rally racing. It was a blend of strategy, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, showcasing the riders’ ability to adapt to the evolving conditions of the race. As the competitors pressed on, the Mauritanian challenge marked a pivotal point in the race, setting the stage for the battles ahead in the desert’s heart.

Stage 7: Chami Loop

A Test of Navigational Skill and Precision

A 281.481mi (453km) loop around Chami was a critical test of the riders’ navigational skills and ability to balance speed with strict adherence to the rally’s regulations. Alessandro Botturi, showcasing a blend of determination and skill, faced a pivotal moment in the race when he incurred a 6-minute penalty for excessive speed. This penalty impacted his immediate performance and also set back his pursuit of the race leader, Jacopo Cerutti, underscoring the thin line between aggression and compliance that riders must navigate in rally racing.

This stage brought to the forefront the complexities and challenges inherent in rally racing.

This was a clear reminder that success in the race is rooted in speed and a profound understanding of the rules, precise navigation, and strategic expertise. The Chami loop, with its demanding navigational challenges, pushed the riders to their limits, testing their endurance, skill, and adherence to the regulations that govern the spirit of the competition.

As the race progressed, this stage stood out as a crucial juncture, highlighting the intricate dance between raw speed and the disciplined execution of rally racing principles. It vividly illustrated the multifaceted nature of the Africa Eco Race, where navigational ordeals are as much a part of the journey as the physical terrain the riders must conquer.

Stage 8: Chami to Amodjar

The Intense Duel in the Desert

A challenging 242.335 mi (390km) trek from Chami to Amodjar emerged as a genuine affirmation of the riders’ grit and stamina. Alessandro Botturi, in a display of determination and skill, managed to narrow the gap to the race leader, Jacopo Cerutti, igniting anticipation for a nail-biting conclusion to the race. This stage was about the physical distance covered but also the psychological warfare as the top three riders jockeyed for position, showcasing their dominance and fueling the intense rivalry that has become the central narrative of this year’s race.

As the desert sands witnessed this epic duel, the competition’s stakes rose ever higher. Each mile brought its own challenges, but the resolve of Botturi, Cerutti, and the other leading riders never wavered. Their capacity to sustain concentration, velocity, and strategic insight across such a demanding distance emphasized the intense competitiveness and the formidable determination propelling these athletes onward.

The race to Amodjar encapsulated the essence of rally racing—a blend of physical endurance, mental toughness, and strategic planning. With the finish line drawing closer, the intense rivalry among the top contenders set the stage for an unforgettable climax to the Africa Eco Race 2024, reminding everyone that in the heart of the desert, every second counts, and every decision can alter the race’s fate.