Less than two weeks after the Dakar Rally ended in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Baja has begun in the city of Ha’il, welcoming riders competing in the FIM Bajas World Cup.
A total of 30 motorcycles and six quad bikes are taking part, marking the start of the new racing season with championship points on the line. Defending champion Mohammed Al-Balooshi (KTM), a four-time title winner, returns to defend his crown against his KTM teammate and rival Rafic Eid.
Alex McInnes (KTM) is the only Junior rider entered in this opening Baja, but he will be aiming for strong overall results. Other notable competitors include Philippe Horleman (KTM), Abdulla Lanjawi (Kove) and Martin Chalmers (Kove).
The motorcycle field includes one Junior rider, seven Veterans and two Women competitors: Joanna Modrzewska (Duust Husqvarna) and Kuwait’s Sarah Khuraibet.
In the quad category, reigning champion Hani Al-Noumesi will compete against Haitham Al-Tuwayjiri, Abdulaziz Ahli, Ahmed Al-Jaber, Abdulrahman Alabdullatif and Abdulaziz Al-Atawi.
As in previous years, the event headquarters is based at the Millennium Hotel in Ha’il, while Ha’il University will host the service park, start and finish areas, and parc fermé.
Administrative checks will take place on January 28 at the Millennium Hotel, followed by technical checks at the service park. Riders will be presented on the start podium in Al-Maghwat on January 29 before racing a 6.25km Prologue later that day.
The Prologue results will decide the starting order for the first major stage, a 242km special stage on January 30. The event concludes on January 31 with a second 151km stage, followed by the podium ceremony and prize-giving in the evening.