- ‘‘This is undoubtedly one of my greatest, if not the greatest, wins of my career.”
Botswana’s Ross Branch has etched his name in the annals of motorsport history by becoming the first African rider to win the FIM World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) 2024. Branch’s victory, secured after a triumphant performance at the Rallye du Maroc, has raised the national flag high on the global stage, culminating a 34-year journey to greatness.
“I am more than happy that this journey has ended with a win,” said Branch. “I’ have worked hard for many years through thick and thin, and my fans, family, and team have been my backbone. Raising the blue, black, and white flag while listening to the national anthem was unreal. This is undoubtedly one of my greatest, if not the greatest, wins of my career.”
Branch entered the final stage of the Rallye du Maroc 9 points ahead of his closest competitors, sealing his victory and closing out a phenomenal season. Earlier this year, Branch showcased his skills with a second-place finish at the 2024 Dakar Rally, setting the stage for his title run. Riding for Hero MotoSports Team Rally, Branch’s consistent performance across the championship events solidified his place among rally-raid’s elite.
Reflecting on his journey, Branch shared, “We have come a long way, and I am full of gratitude. I have been chasing this championship since I was five years old. In the beginning, it was tough—rally-raid is an expensive sport—but we found a way to push through. Now, it is all worth it. I’m also thankful to Hero MotoSports, who spent the last six months building the best bike to get me here.”
The FIM World Rally-Raid Championship is one of the most prestigious competitions in motorsport, featuring grueling off-road races through deserts, mountains, and other challenging terrains. With events like the Dakar Rally and Rallye du Maroc testing riders’ endurance, technical skill, and mental resilience, winning the championship is a testament to a rider’s overall mastery of the sport.
Branch’s historic victory not only highlights his talent but also serves as a source of inspiration. “I’m racing to inspire the next generation of riders,” he said. “I want them to know that if they believe in their dreams and put in the hard work, they can achieve anything. Now, with this win, I’m eyeing Dakar 2025 with the same team, but with an even better strategy, hoping to take it all next year.”
With his sights set on new challenges, Ross Branch’s remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in African motorsport history.
