The stage is set for one of the most thrilling finales in recent memory as the sixth and final round of the 2025 SA Rally-Raid Championship roars into action on 21 and 22 November at Koedoeskop School, just outside Thabazimbi. With only a few points separating the frontrunners, the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 promises an edge-of-your-seat battle to crown this year’s champion.
This year’s series has been nothing short of spectacular – fast-paced, fiercely competitive, and packed into a condensed six-month calendar following the FIA World Championship event earlier in the year. “It’s been hectic but exciting. The 2025 championship has highlighted the razor-thin margins that define this sport,” says SA Rally-Raid CEO Archie Rutherford.
At the heart of the drama are two standout contenders – Saood Variawa, the young Toyota star in the Toyota Gazoo Racing team, who’s been turning heads all season, and Gareth Wooldridge, the experienced Ford campaigner and 2023 Rally-Raid Champion in the Castrol NWM Ford Rally-Raid team. One also cannot count out multiple Dakar competitor and local SA legend Giniel de Villiers, whose consistency could yet prove decisive. “For Giniel to win, he’ll need a little luck,” admits Rutherford. “But in rally-raid, anything can happen – even a single puncture could change the outcome. The last race was won by just 53 seconds over nearly 500 kilometres. That’s how close it is. This title could come down to seconds – one mistake in navigation, one missed turn, and it’s over. The top two teams are separated by just three points – it’s incredibly tight, and next week’s grand finale will decide it all.”
Rutherford also took a moment to acknowledge the championship’s key partners. “We’ve been fortunate to have incredible support from our sponsors throughout the season – Ford, iCam, Falken and #TEAMHILUX – without whom the series simply wouldn’t be possible. Their commitment to the sport and to growing rally-raid in South Africa has been invaluable,” he says.
The Ford versus Toyota rivalry has dominated headlines all season, and the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 will be the final chapter. “Ultimately, it’s going to come down to the team that stays calm under pressure. They are all incredibly talented. The driver and navigator who make the fewest mistakes will take the title,” says Rutherford.
Into the wild – the Bushveld route
The Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400, hosted from Koedoeskop School, introduces competitors to a wild and beautiful slice of the Limpopo bushveld. Race Director Evan Hutchison describes it as “technical and exciting terrain with dense vegetation,” with the route winding through game and hunting farms – roads designed not just for speed, but for scenery.
“What’s unique about this area there are very few straight sections. The roads are narrow, continually winding, and constantly changing – it’s going to keep competitors on their toes from start to finish.”
He adds that the heat will be a key factor in race strategy. “It’s going to be hot, hot, hot and challenging, with temperatures likely reaching into the high 30s or even the 40s. Drivers will have to manage their pace and endurance carefully. Because it’s the final event of the season, we’ve kept the route relatively short and enjoyable – a tough but fun send-off to a fantastic year.”
The return to Koedoeskop is also significant. “We had planned to race here earlier in the year, but the floods made it impossible. Coming back now gives us a chance to end the season in this incredible environment. The terrain will test everyone – it’s a super challenging event, but the goal is to make it enjoyable for everyone’s last weekend out,” says Hutchison.
For the first time, the event will also feature a dedicated spectator point just 5km from Koedoeskop School. “It’s a great new addition,” he adds. “Our VIP and main spectator zones will be in the same secure area with toilets, shade, and easy access, and fans will be able to view two or three vantage points from one location. It’s going to be a fantastic atmosphere for spectators and families.”
A partnership rooted in community
What began as a trial partnership three years ago has grown stronger each year, with event sponsor Northam Zondereinde remaining deeply committed to initiatives that deliver lasting value to its surrounding communities.
“Our inspiration stems from the opportunity to collaborate with local stakeholders and contribute to an event that unites and uplifts our communities. As one of the world’s leading primary producers of platinum group metals, we are invested in the economic and social wellbeing of the area,” says General Manager: Projects Danny Gonsalves.
“Beyond the thrill, the event delivers real value to the region – from boosting tourism and supporting local markets to reinforcing our commitment to sustainable community welfare. At Northam, we believe in our country, our company, our people, and our product. The Rally-Raid is unique to our usual economic activity, giving us a fresh perspective on building strong partnerships that create shared value and new opportunities.
“We look forward to this event sparking interest in aspiring individuals to learn more about the sport and build their craft. To the larger community, come and join in the fun – the event will bring music, food, and diverse cultures together,” says Gonsalves.
The final countdown
With its scenic yet demanding terrain, passionate local support, and national honours on the line, the Northam Zondereinde Bushveld 400 promises to close out the 2025 season in spectacular style. As the engines fire up for one last time in Thabazimbi, anticipation is at fever pitch.
For those unable to attend in person, fans can follow live race tracking via the RallySafe app – simply select the event and watch every split and sector update in real time.
The clock is ticking, the temperatures are rising, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Come 22 November, South Africa will know its 2025 Rally-Raid Champion – but until then, it’s anyone’s race.
Fans can follow live updates via the RallySafe App, available free on iStore and Google Play, or through the official SA Rally-Raid Championship social media channels:
Facebook: @sarallyraidchampionship
Instagram: @sarallyraidchampionship
YouTube: @SouthAfricanRallyRaidSARRC
Prepared on behalf of SA Rally-Raid by Cathy Findley Public Relations
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