Honda HRC Faces the Wild in South African Safari Rally Debut

Monster Energy Honda HRC enters uncharted terrain at the South African Safari Rally, aiming for victory in round 3 of the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship.

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As the 2025 World Rally-Raid Championship roars into its third round, the Monster Energy Honda HRC team enters uncharted territory—both literally and figuratively. The team has landed in South Africa for the inaugural South African Safari Rally. It is a bold new addition to the global rally-raid calendar that promises adventure, unpredictability, and a fresh test of endurance.

Set against the wild backdrop of the savannah, the rally begins on May 19 from Sun City in the North West Province. Riders will tackle over 2,600 kilometres of terrain, including 1,218 kilometres of timed specials, spread across a prologue and five intense stages, one of which includes a gruelling two-day marathon with no external assistance.

A Wild Frontier for All

Unlike the vast dunes of Dakar or the endless straights of Abu Dhabi, this South African terrain introduces thorny bushes, muddy tracks, tight farm trails. Adding to the thrill is the looming presence of wildlife. It is a rally-raid unlike any other.

“This race is an unknown,” said American rider Skyler Howes, who makes his South African debut. “We’ve heard about thorny trees, deep water crossings, and narrow trails that demand precise navigation. It’s going to be technical, unpredictable, and fun.”

Teammate Ricky Brabec, a two-time Dakar winner, is equally cautious yet optimistic. “There are a lot of things we don’t typically see in the U.S.—animals, the terrain, the environment. We’ll have to stay focused, adapt quickly, and push where we can.”

Honda HRC Riders Fired Up

After two consecutive podiums, Tosha Schareina enters the rally with momentum and motivation. Currently second in the standings, the Spaniard is eyeing his first win of the season and sees the African plains as the perfect battleground. “It’s wild, it’s new, and I’m ready to give gas in the savannah,” he said.

Frenchman Adrien Van Beveren, known for his smooth riding and trademark zebra-striped helmet, is also excited to explore a new continent. “South Africa is a world of adventure, and rally-raid is all about that—new cultures, new challenges. HRC has made some nice improvements to the bike, and I’m eager to try them here.”

Confidence in the Camp

Monster Energy Honda HRC’s general manager Ruben Faria expressed confidence after a successful shakedown near Sun City. “The bikes feel good, the riders are in shape, and we’re ready. It’ll be a different kind of rally, but we’ve done our homework.”

With four riders in top form, a powerful CRF450 RALLY under them, and the wild African terrain ahead, Monster Energy Honda HRC is poised not just to compete, but to make history. The race will not only crown a new winner but also usher in a bold chapter for rally-raid.