SA privateers can punch their ticket to Dakar 2023 participation with a single win

The Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa 1000 Desert Race will, for the second consecutive year, make its way to Upington in the Northern Cape and allow hopefuls to sign up for the next edition of the gruelling Dakar Rally.

The TGRSA 1000 is not only the longest and toughest rally-raid in South Africa, but the African continent. What makes the race more remarkable is that it offers Dakar hopefuls the opportunity to win a race entry.

Toyota South Africa Motors said in an official statement: "As before, the Road to Dakar, as this initiative is known, is open to all privateers who haven't previously taken part in the Dakar Rally. The winning competitor can choose to enter the next Dakar or the following one, effectively giving the team a maximum of 18 months to prepare for the race. This means that crews who have previously won the Dakar Challenge or Road to Dakar, but haven't been able to take up their prize, are eligible to win again in 2022."

The competition is governed by a set rule that levels the playing field for all competitors: the participants - both driver and co-driver - must not have taken part in the Dakar before.

The winners of the 2022 Road to Dakar challenge will receive free entry to the Dakar and an €8 000 cash prize. The total value of the prize is around R700 000. The TGRSA 1000 Desert Race will take place between 24-26 June.

"Toyota South Africa has a long and proud history in the world of cross-country racing, both locally and on the International stage," says Toyota SA Motors Vice-President for Marketing, Glenn Crompton. "Our Dakar-winning Hilux is proof of our commitment, and we are excited to be able to support the Road to Dakar again this year, opening the door for rookie privateers to compete in the Dakar