Brad Cox Crowned World Rally2 Champion in Morocco

South African rider Brad Cox has been crowned the 2024 World Rally2 champion after winning the Rallye Du Maroc. His triumph not only brings him the championship title but also qualifies him for the upcoming Dakar Rally in the RallyGP class. Celebrated by local officials, Cox’s notable achievement underscores his talent and dedication within the sport.

Brad Cox of South Africa has been crowned the World Rally2 champion following an outstanding performance at the 2024 Rallye Du Maroc, which is part of the World Rally-Raid Championship. Competing for BAS World KTM Racing, the 26-year-old secured the championship title by clinching victory in the rally, thereby surpassing competitor Romain Dumontier of Team Honda, with Konrad Dąbrowski from Duust Rally finishing in third place. Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture in South Africa, Gayton McKenzie, publicly congratulated Brad Cox on social media stating, “Twenty-six-year-old South African, Bradley Cox has won the World Rally 2 Rally Raid Championship for 2024. This is really fitting because next year we are hosting the big one, W2RC, in SA.” As a privateer rider, Cox operated on a new 2025 KTM 450 Rally Factory Replica and expressed excitement about competing in the upcoming Dakar Rally in the RallyGP class. His victory is even more significant as his mentor, Ross Branch from Botswana, won the RallyGP World Championship in the same event. RallyGP represents the highest echelon in the racing category with only the most experienced competitors participating. Post-rally, Cox reflected on his journey, sharing, “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! Every day I got better and better. Having the title ‘World Champion’ next to your name is great, and I’m really proud. Proud of the effort it took and the sacrifices to get to this point. It’s not just me, it’s my team, my family, and my sponsors- it’s a massive group effort and to have it pay off is amazing. Now we get ready for Dakar. This is a building block and has given me the confidence, and hopefully, Dakar can go as well as this week has!” Earlier in the year, Cox participated in the Dakar Rally, renowned as one of the toughest races globally, where he notably finished 13th overall in the Bike Category, making him the only South African to reach the Top 20 in that challenging contest. His success has also been bolstered by supportive sponsors, including Toyota Gazoo Racing, ASP International Rope Access, and several others who have invested in his racing aspirations.

The World Rally2 category is recognized as a development class within the realm of competitive Rally Raids, specifically designed for riders who have not yet reached the RallyGP status, which is reserved for the most elite competitors in the sport. Brad Cox’s achievement as the World Rally2 champion signifies not only personal success but also positions him for greater visibility and competition in the prestigious Dakar Rally, an event known for its rigorous demands and challenging landscape. Cox’s recent accomplishments come amid the growing anticipation of hosting the W2RC in South Africa next year, which further emphasizes the significance of his title.

In summary, Brad Cox has made an indelible mark in the world of motorcycle rally racing by securing the World Rally2 championship in Morocco. This significant victory not only underscores his personal achievements but also raises hopes for his future in the RallyGP category at the Dakar Rally. With robust support from sponsors and a dedicated team, Cox’s journey is poised for continued success, reflecting the dedication and passion shared with his father and mentor. His triumph serves as an inspiration within the South African sporting community as the nation anticipates hosting international motorsport events in the near future.

Original Source: risingsunnewspapers.co.za