Brad Cox Triumphs as World Rally2 Champion in Morocco
Brad Cox, a 26-year-old South African racer, has been crowned the World Rally2 Champion at the 2024 Rallye Du Maroc. Competing for BAS World KTM Racing, he not only won the rally but also the championship, surpassing rivals Romain Dumontier and Konrad Dabrowski. Minister Gayton McKenzie commended his achievement as South Africa prepares to host the W2RC in 2025. Brad will now advance to the RallyGP class in the Dakar Rally, building on his success.
South African racer Brad Cox has achieved a remarkable milestone in the world of motorsport by being crowned the World Rally2 Champion during the recent Rallye Du Maroc, part of the World Rally-Raid Championship in 2024. At the young age of 26, Cox, competing for BAS World KTM Racing, not only secured victory at the rally but also clinched the championship title, outpacing his rival Romain Dumontier of Team Honda, with Konrad Dabrowski from Duust Rally finishing in third place. This phenomenal triumph garnered recognition from South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who expressed his congratulations via social media, highlighting the significance of Cox’s achievement as South Africa prepares to host the prestigious W2RC event next year. Brad’s win is especially noteworthy as it comes ahead of South Africa’s hosting of the third round of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) in May 2025, which promises an exhilarating competition across varied landscapes in the North West and Limpopo provinces, including bushveld plateaus and savannah plains. Cox’s impressive performance was executed on a 2025 KTM 450 Rally Factory Replica where he competed as a privateer, a commendable feat given that he is now positioned to compete in the next Dakar Rally in the more advanced RallyGP class. Post-event, Brad shared his sentiments about the championship, attributing his success to a strategic focus through challenging circumstances, noting, “Coming in I was down eight points and while there was a chance to be champion, really the week had to fall perfectly for me and it did. From the start, I had my goal set and put my head down, knowing that for the next five days I would do whatever it takes to win – and that’s what happened!” He acknowledged the collective effort from his team and supporters, stating, “it’s a massive group effort and to have it payoff is amazing. Now we get ready for Dakar.” Team manager Bart van der Velden commented on Cox’s development, expressing confidence in the preparations for the upcoming Dakar and commending the significant advancements Brad has made in navigation and training over the past year. Additionally, throughout the year, Brad showcased his skill at the Dakar Rally, finishing commendably in the Rally2 category. His achievements have been made possible through unwavering support from a diverse group of sponsors committed to his racing endeavors.
The World Rally2 Championship represents a significant tier within the rally racing domain, particularly for riders who have not yet reached the elite RallyGP class. This sector serves as a platform for aspiring motorsport talent to showcase their skills and gain recognition. The Rallye Du Maroc is an essential event within the World Rally-Raid Championship, providing critical points in the championship standings. South Africa’s involvement in hosting the W2RC in 2025 underscores the growing significance of the country in the global motorsport arena, offering its diverse terrain as an exciting backdrop for international competition. Moreover, Brad Cox’s trajectory in motorsport, supported by his father’s legacy, illustrates the personal and professional commitment required to succeed in such a demanding field.
In summary, Brad Cox’s triumph in Morocco as the World Rally2 Champion not only solidifies his position in motorsport but also serves as a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and dedication. His achievements come at a pivotal moment as South Africa gears up to welcome international competitors for the W2RC in 2025, highlighting the nation’s growing prominence in rally racing.
Original Source: www.knysnaplettherald.com
