TGR Gears Up for South African Safari Rally as W2RC Resumes

The South African Safari Rally marks the third round of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing will field a three-car team, featuring seasoned drivers and newcomers focusing exclusively on this championship. The rally, taking place in North West Province, promises tough challenges including a Marathon Stage. As they aim to solidify their standings, TGR prepares for a demanding event on African soil.

The third round of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) is gearing up for the South African Safari Rally, a significant event for rally-raid enthusiasts. This year’s competition expects to showcase some of the best talents in the world, with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) fielding a robust three-car lineup. As the season unfolds, TGR is positioned to solidify its lead in the W2RC standings, entering the halfway point of the championship.

Returning to the rally for TGR are driver crews Lucas Moraes from Brazil and Armand Monleon from Spain, alongside Seth Quintero from the USA and Dennis Zenz from Germany. New to the lineup is a South African pair, Henk Lategan and Brett Cummings, who will be competing in car 211. After strong performances in previous years, including success in the South African Rally-Raid Championship (SARRC) and a second-place finish in Dakar 2025, they are now shifting their focus entirely to the W2RC.

Lategan and Cummings have a rich history with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA). Their collaboration led to the development of the GR Hilux EVO and numerous championships. The duo’s decision to join the Europe-based TGR team highlights their commitment as they aim for success in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship. Notably, the W2RC is entering South Africa for the first time, showcasing the region’s rugged terrains and challenges.

The Safari Rally is set to take place in the North West Province, encompassing five stages across diverse landscapes. The competition will kick off with a prologue on May 19 in Sun City, before taking the crews through remote areas near Stella, Mafikeng, and Thabazimbi, culminating in a grand finish in Sun City on May 24.

A notable feature of the rally is the Marathon Stage, which tests the endurance of the competitors. Here, participants will camp overnight at a remote bivouac without any external mechanical assistance, relying only on the tools and spare parts they carry. This reflects the challenging nature of rally-raid events, as teams must demonstrate not only speed but also effective teamwork and strategy.

With the GR Hilux EVO making its return to where it was originally tested, TGR seems well-prepared to tackle the tough conditions awaiting them in South Africa. This event marks a crucial stepping stone in their pursuit of W2RC glory.

In conclusion, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing is set to make a strong impact at the upcoming South African Safari Rally, with a skilled driver lineup and a well-prepared vehicle. As they compete in this inaugural W2RC event on African soil, the team aims to extend its lead in the championship standings while facing formidable challenges along the way. As they move forward, the emphasis will be on teamwork, strategy, and endurance, critical elements in rally-raid competitions.

Original Source: newsroom.toyota.eu