The engines have ignited and the desert is alive as the 21st edition of the Taklimakan Rally begins in the vast sands of northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Known as one of Asia’s most grueling and prestigious motorsport events, the rally kicked off in Aksu Prefecture, drawing in off-road racing teams and top international competitors from around the globe.
Over the next 13 days, racers will face an epic journey covering approximately 5,183 kilometers. The competition features 10 special stages that promise a challenging mix of terrains, testing the limits of both drivers and their machines.
This year’s rally boasts participation from 130 teams and a total of 233 competitors. Among them is Martin Michek, a seasoned racer who finished 10th in the Dakar Rally in 2021 and 2024. Impressed by the scale and organization of the event, Michek shared his excitement: “I was surprised at how big the paddock is, with so many cars and competitors. It’s quite a big rally, and I think I will enjoy this.”
Since its inception in 2005, the Taklimakan Rally has evolved into the longest and largest international cross-country rally in Asia. It continues to attract international racers, including participants from the UK, France, the Czech Republic, and Spain.
Aliyyah Koloc, racing in China for the first time, expressed her anticipation: “It’s really exciting to be here. It’s a two-week-long race, which is something new for me. There will be new lessons every day, and I’m really excited for the next two weeks. I’ve heard a lot about this race, and it’s one of the biggest here. I love doing tough races, and after the Dakar Rally, this is the next best thing.”
Koloc is teaming up with her co-driver Sebastien Delaunay for the third consecutive year. Delaunay, who has previously competed with Koloc in Dakar, is enjoying his time off the track in China. “I tried everything. The chicken feet were a little bit strange for me, but I tried,” he said with a smile. “We saw the landscape, the mountains, and during our flight here, the view was amazing.”
As competitors gear up for the first stage on Wednesday, the excitement is palpable. The rally is set to conclude on June 1, promising countless adventures and challenges along the way.
