Against the Odds: Badawi Trail to the last oasis 2026 finishes in Jeddah

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

The second edition of the Badawi Trail to the Last Oasis was successfully completed despite challenging circumstances. What was originally intended as an international rally was, out of necessity, transformed into a fully Saudi edition—but this did nothing to diminish the sense of adventure, challenge, and impressive achievements.

Adapted route, unchanged character

The rally started on March 28 and, thirteen days and 5,000 kilometres later, finished back in Jeddah, within the walls of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Normally the stage for Formula 1, the circuit this time provided the backdrop for a very different kind of motorsport.

Due to changing circumstances in the region, the original international route had to be adjusted. However, organiser HERO-ERA managed to create an alternative route entirely within Saudi Arabia, largely based on the original plan, with additional stages added. Thanks to the support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the rally was able to go ahead—a gesture greatly appreciated by the participants.

From desert to mountains

The route offered everything an endurance rally should have: vast deserts, technical mountain passes, wadis and even sections along the Red Sea. Participants partly followed in the tracks of the legendary Dakar Rally, while also discovering a lesser-known Saudi Arabia with spectacular mountains and demanding roads.

Highlights along the way included:

• Hegra with its impressive rock tombs
• Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building
• The surreal landscapes around “Mushroom Rock” and the Mesa Valley

A true test of endurance

With 40 regularities and 15 Sporting Time Control sections, the rally proved as relentless as expected. Of the 21 crews that started, 20 reached the finish—although some had to switch to rented 4x4 vehicles after mechanical failures just to make it.

For many, this event was more than just a rally: it served as preparation for the 2028 Peking to Paris Motor Challenge, which promises to be the longest and toughest edition ever.

A remarkable story came from the crew in a 1907 Itala. Driven by Tomas de Vargas Machuca, Ben Cussons and David Ayres, the 119-year-old car achieved an impressive 5th overall place and victory in the Pioneer Class.

Ford V8 dominance

Overall victory convincingly went to Richard Clark and Jonathan Round in their Ford V8 Coupé. The duo, who had previously enjoyed success in the Pearl of India Rally, controlled the standings almost from day one.

Despite a few technical issues, they maintained their lead with impressive consistency. “It’s always fantastic to be in Saudi Arabia. We received a wonderful welcome and it’s an honour to win here,” said Clark.

Navigator Round added: “We had an amazing time and are extremely pleased the rally could take place.”

Tight battle in the Classic class

In the Classic class, the fight remained intense until the very end. Ultimately, the Ford Mustang of Xavier de Sarrau and Lucas de Sarrau came out on top. The father-and-son pairing held off strong competition, including a Mercedes-Benz 450 SLC and two Toyota Land Cruisers, one of them driven by Alfonso de Orleans-Borbon.

Notably, the Land Cruiser of De Orleans-Borbon crashed early in the rally and suffered numerous mechanical issues, yet still managed to finish second. “This victory was built step by step. It was tense, but thanks to Lucas’s determination, we succeeded,” said Xavier.

A rally of significance

Although the rally took place against a backdrop of regional tensions, participants mainly emphasised the hospitality, perseverance and unique experience. The Badawi Trail to the Last Oasis once again proved that historic rallies are not just about speed, but about adventure, teamwork and respect for both man and machine.

With this successful second edition, Saudi Arabia has firmly positioned itself as a destination for international endurance rallies—and as a preview of what lies ahead towards Peking–Paris 2028.

Make a comment, ask a question, give your opinion, share additional information or start a discussion by filling in the fields below.