Planned for 25 to 26 April, it is due to attract tourists and rally enthusiasts from across the country. 

The charming town of Fouriesburg lies nestled in the picturesque Brandwater basin, surrounded by the majestic Witteberg and Rooiberge mountain ranges. Strategically situated near the Lesotho border, Fouriesburg is separated from the Mountain Kingdom by the Caledon River, wrote motor journalist William Louw. 

The charming town of Fouriesburg is a mere 12 km from Lesotho. Foto supplied

The event is organised in coordination with Fouriesburg farmers, Greater Fouriesburg Tourism (NPC), Fouriesburg Agricultural Association, and locals, said local tourism director and business owner Wanita Skors. Motor rally enthusiasts and stakeholders can look forward to a weekend of adrenaline-fueled action, heart-stopping drama, and non-stop excitement.

“The stage is set, the drivers are ready and the rally community is buzzing. Fouriesburg is more than ready to host this unique and historical event,” said Skors.

Farmers like Johan “Apla” Scheepers, David Exley, Jan Scheepers, and rally veteran Al van Eeden have done a lot to prepare roads on farms for the rally, she added. Without the cooperation of local farmers, the Rally would not have been possible.

Photo: Rally SA

This year’s competition in Fouriesburg is expected to be fierce, with several notable drivers vying for the top spot, including Benjamin Habig Jr, defending champion Chris Coertse, Anton and Isabel Raaths, Andrea Duarte, and the Toyota Gazoo Racing Team.

With the assistance of dedicated Fouriesburg farmers, the organisers have designed an exhilarating line-up of stages to commemorate this historic occasion. The stages are expected to challenge the abilities of drivers and satisfy the enjoyment of spectators.

Organisers have adopted a strategic “North and South” approach using Fouriesburg as the centre, dividing the competition into two action-packed days. Crews will tackle the challenging southern stages, showcasing their skills on the region’s scenic roads: SS 1&4 – Broadlands – 14.70 km; SS2&5 – Vêr Genoeg – 14.13 km; SS 3&6 – Carolina – 11.23 km.

Photo: Rally SA

The rally shifts to the northern stages on Saturday morning, offering a fresh set of challenges and breath-taking vistas: SS 7&10 – Sandvlei – 11.67 km; SS 8&11 – De Breede Weg – 12.64 km; SS 9&12 – Straight and Narrow – 9.54 km; SS13 – Broadlands Power Stage – 14.70 km.

Conveniently located opposite the Plaasstoep in Truter Street, the central service park will serve as the hub for crews to prepare, refuel, and strategise between stages. The official start for Round 1’s southern stages will be at approximately 13:00 on Friday afternoon from the Fouriesburg service park.

Day two will be starting from the Service Park at 08:00 sharp. Teams will tackle the northern stages, heading in the direction of Bethlehem. The racing total for day two is 82.20 km, which makes the total racing distance for the event 162.52 km.

Photo: Rally SA

Rally fans can look forward to a bustling market offering various locally produced goods and cuisine. The event has generated excitement beyond Fouriesburg’s borders, attracting attention from neighbouring towns such as Clarens, Bethlehem, Ficksburg, Rosendal, and Paul Roux.

“To the farmers, Greater Fouriesburg Tourism NPC, Fouriesburg Agricultural Association, and the wonderful locals of Fouriesburg, we extend our deepest gratitude for your warm hospitality and generous support,” said William Louw. “Your kindness and willingness to share your beautiful surroundings with us have made this event truly special. 

“We couldn’t’ve done it without you. Thank you for being an integral part of our rally family. To all other enthusiasts for the sport, spectators, supporters, Eastern Free Staters – don’t miss this thrilling kick-off to the 2025 rally season.”

OFM News/Susan Maré mvh