The 2024 Morocco Rally commenced with a tragic incident as French motorcyclist Frédéric Baudry lost his life during the first stage of the competition. The accident occurred at kilometer 97, where Baudry, participating in the event for the second time, succumbed to his injuries despite prompt medical assistance, which was dispatched via helicopter.
This rally serves as the final event of the World Championship for off-road racing. The race director, David Castera, noted that Baudry had aimed to prepare for the Dakar Rally through this competition.
In the competitive landscape, Zimbabwe's Ross Branch claimed victory in the first special stage, finishing ahead of Australia's Daniel Sanders by 48 seconds, with Spain's Tosha Schareina taking third place. Notably, the Honda team faced setbacks, losing American rider Ricky Brabec to a knee injury during the event.
In the automobile category, Qatari driver Nasser Al-Attiyah secured the win, outpacing Saudi Arabia's Yazeed Al-Rajhi by 1 minute and 39 seconds, while Spanish veteran Carlos Sainz rounded out the top three. The rally continues with the second special stage scheduled for Tuesday in Zagora, featuring a timed section of 267 kilometers.