Brad Cox Triumphs as World Rally2 Champion in Morocco

Brad Cox of South Africa has been crowned the World Rally2 Champion at the 2024 Rallye Du Maroc. Competing for BAS World KTM Racing, he achieved a dual victory by winning the rally while also claiming the championship title. His remarkable performance attracted congratulations from the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, signifying South Africa’s later hosting of the World Rally-Raid Championship. Cox’s success, combined with strong sponsorship support, positions him favorably for future challenges, including the Dakar Rally.

In an outstanding demonstration of skill and determination, South African racer Brad Cox, aged 26, has been officially recognized as the World Rally2 Champion during the 2024 Rallye Du Maroc, part of the World Rally-Raid Championship, held over the recent weekend. Competing for BAS World KTM Racing, Mr. Cox achieved a remarkable feat by securing both a rally victory and the championship title in Morocco. This triumph allowed him to overtake Romain Dumontier of Team Honda, while Konrad Dabrowski from Duust Rally secured the third position. The significance of Mr. Cox’s accomplishment was highlighted by Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa, who publicly congratulated him via social media, remarking, “26-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.” The minister’s statement refers to South Africa’s upcoming hosting of the third round of the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), scheduled for May 18 to 24, 2025, in the North West and Limpopo provinces. This prestigious event promises to showcase diverse terrains, including bushveld plateaus, river crossings, and savannah plains. Excitement surrounding the future event has intensified following Mr. Cox’s impressive performance aboard his new 2025 KTM 450 Rally Factory Replica. His success is even more profound as he competes as a privateer, distinguishing his accomplishment from factory riders. Notably, his mentor, Ross Branch of Botswana, also secured the RallyGP World Championship in Morocco, underscoring the competitive spirit amongst their group. The RallyGP class represents the highest competitive level in the sport, reserved for the most experienced riders and manufacturers. In contrast, Rally2 provides opportunities for riders who have yet to ascend to RallyGP status. Mr. Cox’s latest victory positions him to compete in the next Dakar Rally within the RallyGP class. Upon reflecting on his journey, Mr. Cox expressed gratitude for the team effort behind his success, stating, “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, my sponsors…it’s a massive group effort and to have it payoff is amazing.” Commenting on Mr. Cox’s development, Bart van der Velden, the BAS World KTM Racing Team Manager, noted that the success is a result of persistent training and improvement in navigation skills, stating, “It was great to see that all the training and hard work he’s put in over the last few years has paid off. In the past year-and-a-half, Brad has taken big steps in his navigation and his training.” Mr. van der Velden expressed confidence in the team’s preparations for the forthcoming Dakar Rally. Earlier this year, Mr. Cox participated in the Dakar Rally, regarded as one of the toughest races, where he achieved a commendable overall finish in the Rally2 category, placing 13th overall in the Bike category. He was notable for being the only South African to rank within the Top 20. Mr. Cox’s journey to success has been supported by numerous sponsors, including Toyota Gazoo Racing, ASP International Rope Access, BAS World KTM Racing Team, and several others committed to advancing his career in motorsports, reinforcing the collaborative nature of his achievements.

This article details the impressive accomplishment of South African motorcyclist Brad Cox, who recently won the World Rally2 Championship at the Rallye Du Maroc in 2024. The background highlights the significant challenges faced by competitors in rally racing, particularly in relation to the rigorous demands of events such as the Dakar Rally, known for its complex navigation and diverse racing conditions. The article also places Mr. Cox’s achievement in the context of the broader motorsport landscape, noting the significance of the RallyGP and Rally2 classes, along with the support provided by sponsors essential to his success. Furthermore, the anticipation builds for South Africa’s future hosting of the W2RC, which will showcase its diverse terrain and contribute to the country’s standing in international motorsport.

In conclusion, Brad Cox’s recent crowning as the World Rally2 Champion not only highlights his individual talent and dedication but also marks a significant milestone for South African motorsport. His ability to prevail in a competitive environment, coupled with the backing of his team and sponsors, sets a promising foundation for his future endeavors, including his participation in the upcoming Dakar Rally. This achievement not only resonates within the realm of motorsports but also positions South Africa as an emerging host of prominent international rally events, thereby enhancing the country’s profile in the global motorsport arena.

Original Source: www.knysnaplettherald.com