After two intense weeks of competition, the 200 teams entered in the Aïcha des Gazelles Rally Morocco 2024 crossed the finish line on Essaouira beach on April 27. The event, which saw participation in various categories ranging from 4x4s and trucks to electric vehicles, offered a spectacle rich in challenges and emotions.
The highlight of this edition was the successful integration of electric vehicles, proving that the future of the rally could be as green as it is exciting. The presence of Cristina Gutiérrez, the second woman to win a stage in the history of the Dakar in 2021, patron of this 2024 edition, also added a touch of inspiration for all the participants.
A look back at the Rally’s progress
Preparation day in Nice
Preparations began on April 12th in Nice, where the crews conducted technical and administrative checks. This essential step ensured that all participants were ready for the adventure, equipped with safety devices such as the Sarsat beacon and the Unik device for accurate distance tracking. The day was marked by camaraderie and anticipation, as the teams exchanged tips and strategies for the days ahead.
Official departure from Monaco
On April 13, the rally kicked off in Monaco in the presence of prominent figures such as HSH Albert II of Monaco and Aurore Bergé. This solemn moment highlighted the rally's importance in the world of motorsport, while also highlighting its commitment to equality and sustainable development. The day was punctuated by inspiring speeches and demonstrations of support for the values embodied by the rally.
The stages of the Rally
First tests and challenges
Starting on April 18, the competitors began tackling the challenging Moroccan terrain. The first day put the teams to the test with a course strewn with markers scattered across a gigantic reg, where every kilometer counted toward the final ranking. This stage was crucial in testing each team's navigation and strategy, with several encountering difficulties locating the markers, adding suspense and uncertainty to the competition.
Confrontation with the dunes of Erg Chebbi
On April 19, Stage 2 pitted the participants against the formidable dunes of Erg Chebbi. This day was decisive, offering courses of varying difficulty, where each route choice could significantly influence the ranking. The teams had to demonstrate great skill in driving in the sand, a challenge that tested both their courage and their technical skills.
Innovation and competition
The rise of electric vehicles
Remarkable performance of the E-Gazelles
The introduction of electric vehicles into rallying marked a turning point, with impressive performances despite the additional challenges of recharging. Their ability to compete with internal combustion vehicles was demonstrated, paving the way for a new, greener era in rallying history. This achievement is all the more notable as it suggests a possible future where motorized competitions could be less dependent on fossil fuels.
Results and standings
The performances of the crews were varied, with teams such as those of Stéphanie Guerry and Kaori Ishibashi proving that technical innovations can compete favorably with traditional solutions. These results have sparked increased interest in the potential of electric vehicles in rally competitions, indicating a growing receptivity to green technologies in motorsport.
Dynamics and future prospects
The impact of weather and strategic decisions
Changing weather conditions required strategic adaptations, including the cancellation of certain stages to ensure participant safety. These decisions highlighted the adaptability and resilience of the organizers and crews. The weather challenges also served as a reminder of the importance of preparation and flexibility in extreme desert conditions.
Marathon stages and autonomy management
The final stages tested the Gazelles' autonomy and perseverance, forcing them to overcome fatigue and natural obstacles to reach the markers in often extreme conditions. These challenges not only tested the vehicles' sturdiness but also the participants' team spirit and determination. These moments were crucial in forging strong bonds between the teams, sharing unique experiences under the stars of the Moroccan desert.
TEAM RANKINGS
4×4/Truck
16th place: Team 188 – Caroline Perreuj (Eure) and Fikria Fikri (Morocco)
41st place: Team 144 – Lucie Lenoir (Manche) and Audrey Gin (Manche)
61st place: Team 146 – Véronique Blandin (Calvados) and Sophie Mahler (Manche)
69th place: Team 142 – Virginie Bernardin Stadler (Seine-Maritime) and Julie Lemaire (Seine-Maritime)
139th place: Team 266 – Stéphanie Renard (Eure) and Isabelle Goirand (Île-de-France)
153rd place: Team 105 – Magalie Picard Tessier (Eure) and Patricia Lepelletier (Seine-Maritime)
Crossover / SUV
1st place: Team 306 – Marie-Pierre Moyne (Seine-Maritime) and Sabine Callot (Brittany)
Patrick Koune
