Old Friends Rally Team Duo Strengthens Grip on SSV World Championship Lead
In the heart of the African wilderness, Alexandre Pinto and Bernardo Oliveira have once again unleashed their rallying prowess, securing another stunning victory at the South African Safari Rally. Racing under the banner of the Old Friends Rally Team, the dynamic Portuguese duo dominated the day’s stage in the SSV category, claiming victory in the fourth and penultimate leg of this adrenaline-charged rally raid event near the iconic Sun City.
With wins already in the prologue and Stage 2, Pinto and Oliveira roared back to the top, conquering the 224-kilometer timed section in a blistering 2h28m20s aboard their formidable Can-Am Maverick XRS Turbo RR. Tackling almost 700 km in total, including punishing liaison sections, the pair once again bagged maximum points for the W2RC—solidifying their lead in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship.
“Today’s win was crucial for us,” said a focused Alexandre Pinto. “We set off early and only returned late in the day—it’s been a string of long, intense days. Tomorrow’s the final push. Our focus remains on scoring as many championship points as possible.”
The curtain will fall tomorrow on the debut edition of the South African Safari Rally—now a fierce new contender on the W2RC calendar as its third official round. The final stage promises no less drama, with a 118 km timed special swirling once more around Sun City. Expect a mix of unforgiving hardpack if dry, treacherously slick terrain if wet, river crossings, and high-speed gravel trails—a true test of mettle and machine.
For more info on the South African Safari Rally, visit: https://sasafarirally.co.za/
Based on the official press release
Source: Old Friends Rally Team / A2 Comunicação
