The Taklimakan Rally, one of Asia's most thrilling off-road races, has wrapped up after an adrenaline-pumping 13-day journey in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Racers conquered over 4,000 kilometers across deserts, rivers, gravel, and rugged mountains, including 10 special stages that tested their limits over 2,350 kilometers.
Launched in 2005, this event has grown into Asia's longest, largest, and most competitive off-road race. This year, 23 motorcycles and 105 vehicles navigated roughly 5,200 kilometers, delivering non-stop action and heart-pounding excitement.
In the car category, Liu Yangui and navigator Chen Feng from the Shan'xi Yunxiang Team clinched the title with an impressive overall time of 27:08:15, marking Liu’s second victory since his previous win in 2014. Tao Yongming with co-driver Shen Xin of the Hebei Qian'an Jiujiang Auto and Motorcycle Sports Club finished strong in second place, while Lin Dewei teamed up with navigator Wang Yang from the Duonai Shock Absorber Team to secure third.
On the motorcycle front, the Hoto Factory Racing Team stole the spotlight. Martin Michek raced to the top with a total time of 28:31:04, followed closely by his Lithuanian teammate Arunas Gelazninkas in second, and China's Shi Haoyu rounding out the exhilarating podium finish 🏍️🏆.
This year's Taklimakan Rally showcased fierce competition and incredible endurance, all set against a backdrop of stunning, diverse landscapes. The race not only tested the mettle of its competitors but also captured the spirit of adventure that continues to inspire motorsport fans and thrill-seekers around the globe. Get ready for more epic tales from the world of off-road racing!
Reference(s):
Taklimakan Rally wraps up after 13 days and over 4,000 kilometers
cgtn.com
