The 2025 South African Rally-Raid Championship moves to KwaZulu-Natal this weekend for the VAPS HCV Vryheid 400, a pivotal event in the championship chase. After an earlier postponement caused by regional flooding, the series makes its return to the area, with the championship battle intensifying as the season approaches its conclusion.
Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) arrives with a narrow lead in the standings. The crew of Saood Variawa and Francois Cazalet, currently at the front of the overall title chase, will be supported by teammates Guy Botterill and Oriel Mena. Both crews will pilot the latest iteration of the GR Hilux IMT EVO, a vehicle whose performance across diverse conditions this year will face a thorough examination on the mixed terrain surrounding Vryheid.
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The Castrol NWM Ford Rally-Raid Team, however, enters the event with significant momentum. A double podium finish at the previous Outeniqua 400 has tightened the championship contest. Gareth Woolridge and Boyd Dreyer, now just four points behind the leaders, are positioned to challenge for the top spot. Their teammates, Marcos Baumgart and Kleber Cincea, who achieved their best result of the season at the last round, will also be contenders for a strong finish.
“Our focus on improving reliability and performance has really paid off,” says Neil Woolridge, Team Principal of the Castrol NWM Ford Rally-Raid Team. “The team has great energy at the moment, and there is a shared determination as we head into these final stages. Experience will be vital, and it is crucial that we maintain our focus under pressure.”
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Based at the Vryheid Airfield, which will serve as the Race Headquarters and central Designated Service Point, the event offers a compact yet demanding route. The action begins on Friday with the 15-kilometre Falken Wild Peak Prologue through fast, graded forest roads, starting at 09:30. This is followed by Stage One, a 52-kilometre run through nearby lowlands and farmlands commencing at 13:00. These initial stages will set the starting order for Saturday’s main contest.
Saturday presents the core challenge with two identical loops of 183 kilometres each, separated by a mandatory 30-minute service halt. The route north of Vryheid weaves through dense forest trails, navigates flowing mountain passes, and opens onto rapid gravel sections. This combination of tight, technical climbs and faster, open roads is expected to test driver concentration and vehicle durability thoroughly.
For the local community, the event marks a significant occasion. Landowners and the Vryheid Flying Club have been instrumental in its organisation, contributing to a festival atmosphere for spectators. Excellent viewing opportunities are available along the route, which passes through rolling hills, lush forests, and open grasslands.
With the title fight so closely poised, strategy and consistency over the 400-kilometre race distance will be critical for all leading crews. Spectators are encouraged to follow the action live via the RallySafe App, available as a free download, or to visit the Vryheid Airfield to experience the event firsthand.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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