2025 Taklimakan Rally Concludes After Intense Desert Challenge in Xinjiang
The highly anticipated X Power 2025 Taklimakan Rally came to a thrilling conclusion on June 1 in northwest China's Xinjiang region, marking a significant chapter in the realm of motorsport. The event, which kicked off on May 20, showcased a 13-day endurance rally that tested the mettle of 233 racers hailing from 12 different countries. Spanning a total of 5,183 kilometers, the course comprised challenging terrains including deserts, Gobi plains, and river crossings, with a remarkable 2,200 kilometers dedicated to timed special stages.
Racers faced not only the demanding landscape but also grueling heat that added to the challenge of the competition. This year’s rally saw participation from an impressive lineup of 23 motorcycles and 105 vehicles, all vying for the top honors in what is regarded in China as the equivalent of the Dakar Rally. Amidst fierce competition, Czech racer Martin Michek emerged victorious in the motorcycle category. Completing the race in a remarkable time of 28 hours, 31 minutes, and 4 seconds, Michek expressed his excitement: “This race was extremely tough, but I really enjoyed competing in China,” marking his first experience in this iconic rally.
In the car category, China's Liu Yangui claimed the championship with a time of 27 hours, 8 minutes, and 15 seconds. Liu shared his elation, stating that winning the overall title was their primary goal, and it felt like the greatest recognition they could receive. This year was particularly notable as it introduced a new category for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs). Ten vehicles competed in the T2.E class, with Yao Weiqiang from the Great Wall Tank Hi4 Team taking the inaugural title in this division, completing the course in 37 hours, 30 minutes, and 42 seconds.
The closing ceremony of the Taklimakan Rally was a sight to behold, featuring an exhilarating drone performance and a spectacular fireworks show that signified a moment of celebration for all participants. After 13 intense days filled with challenges and triumphs, racers, their teams, and support crews finally had the opportunity to reflect, breathe, and revel in their achievements. The Taklimakan Rally continues to evolve since its inception in 2005, solidifying its reputation as one of the most challenging cross-country rallies in China. As the dust settles from this year’s event, the anticipation for the next edition can already be felt among motorsport enthusiasts around the globe.
Racers faced not only the demanding landscape but also grueling heat that added to the challenge of the competition. This year’s rally saw participation from an impressive lineup of 23 motorcycles and 105 vehicles, all vying for the top honors in what is regarded in China as the equivalent of the Dakar Rally. Amidst fierce competition, Czech racer Martin Michek emerged victorious in the motorcycle category. Completing the race in a remarkable time of 28 hours, 31 minutes, and 4 seconds, Michek expressed his excitement: “This race was extremely tough, but I really enjoyed competing in China,” marking his first experience in this iconic rally.
In the car category, China's Liu Yangui claimed the championship with a time of 27 hours, 8 minutes, and 15 seconds. Liu shared his elation, stating that winning the overall title was their primary goal, and it felt like the greatest recognition they could receive. This year was particularly notable as it introduced a new category for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs). Ten vehicles competed in the T2.E class, with Yao Weiqiang from the Great Wall Tank Hi4 Team taking the inaugural title in this division, completing the course in 37 hours, 30 minutes, and 42 seconds.
The closing ceremony of the Taklimakan Rally was a sight to behold, featuring an exhilarating drone performance and a spectacular fireworks show that signified a moment of celebration for all participants. After 13 intense days filled with challenges and triumphs, racers, their teams, and support crews finally had the opportunity to reflect, breathe, and revel in their achievements. The Taklimakan Rally continues to evolve since its inception in 2005, solidifying its reputation as one of the most challenging cross-country rallies in China. As the dust settles from this year’s event, the anticipation for the next edition can already be felt among motorsport enthusiasts around the globe.
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