It's actually ironic if you think about it. Sabine started the Paris-Dakar 28 years ago in order for amateurs to enjoy a low cost rally through the African landscapes. A real adventure for anyone. Today, the Dakar rally has turned into a multi-million dollar venture, with a minimum budget for a private entry of about 75,000 €. Not many people can afford to follow their dream and race in the desert.
Enter the Budapest-Bamako rally. Dubbed as the low cost Dakar race, participants need to pay between 350 and 1300 € entry fee, and expect a budget from between 2,000 to some 7,000 € to compete, tank, sleep, eat and return their vehicle to the safe roads of Europe. About 10 times less than the "real" Dakar.
The race starts on the 26th of December (in contrast with the hung-over minds of the Dakar rally that starts on the 1st of January) in Budapest then goes via Slovenia, Italy, France, Spain, Morocco and finishes in Bamako, Mali on the 9th of January. Contestants can ride any roadworthy vehicle, so that includes motorcycles.
Quick facts at a glance:
Distance: 4,770 miles (7632km)
Number of participants: 200 teams maximum
Categories: Racing & Touring
Average daily driving: 315 miles (504km)
Longest section: Venice-Marseille (700miles 1120km)
Shortest section: Kita-Bamako (112miles, 180km)
The race is limited to 200 contestants, so if you're tempted, better hurry.
Click here to access their website. (there's even a discussion forum)
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