The Portuguese pair, Alexandre Pinto and Bernardo Oliveira, wrapped up a highly successful run at the South African Safari Rally, which concluded this afternoon in Sun City, South Africa. With a win in the prologue, victories in Stages 2 and 4, and a second-place finish on the final day, they solidified their lead in the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) in the SSV category — keeping their world title hopes very much alive for Old Friends Rally Team.
“This Safari Rally truly was an adventure! But most importantly, we achieved our main goal: keeping the lead in the World Championship,” said Alexandre Pinto. “It was a tougher rally than we expected — long stages, very long liaisons, and many kilometers across these South African tracks. We got to enjoy the stunning landscapes, and I was amazed by the amount of farmland beyond the savannas. In the savanna, we were constantly expecting to see wildlife — which, thankfully, never happened during the race, as that could’ve been tricky! There were lots of spectators, and we were warmly welcomed, even in the most remote areas. The marathon stage had a fantastic bivouac with great conditions. I leave here absolutely fascinated by this rally in South Africa.”
In today’s stage, driving a Can-Am Maverick XRS Turbo RR, Alexandre Pinto completed the 118 km timed section around Sun City in 1h20m49s.
Alexandre Pinto and Bernardo Oliveira’s next outing in the World Rally-Raid Championship will be on home soil, as the Rally-Raid Portugal takes place from September 22 to 28, organized by ACP.
More info about the South African Safari Rally at: https://sasafarirally.co.za/
Automatic/AI Translation of the Portuguese version
Source: Old Friends Rally Team / A2 Comunicação
