The Baja TT Cuenca has achieved outstanding entry numbers, with more than 140 teams confirmed for the rally. As a result, the top names on the national scene—and, for the first time this year, some of the most competitive international contenders—will gather in Cuenca from May 7.
The event, taking place from May 7 to 10 across the Serranía Conquense, serves as the opening round of the FIA European Baja Cup and also the third round of the Spanish Rally TT Championship.
At Baja TT Cuenca, the leading contenders of the FIA European Baja Cup will be in action.
Europe’s most competitive teams will line up in Cuenca. Lithuanian driver Benediktas Vanagas, one of the fastest privateers at the Dakar Rally, has confirmed his participation. Alongside Aisvydas Paliukėnas in their Toyota Hilux EVO, Vanagas aims to fight for the overall European title in a championship made up of eight events, where only each team’s six best results count. For Vanagas, the European Baja Cup is a test of consistency, requiring a balance between outright speed and mechanical reliability across Europe’s toughest terrains.
Among the international entries are also Portuguese crews João Ramos and Pedro Ré, competing in a Toyota Hilux. Ramos highlighted the impressive natural landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha and stated he will approach the event with ambition and focus, aware that it marks the beginning of a highly competitive season where strong results will be crucial for the remainder of the European Baja Cup.
Fellow Portuguese competitors José Rogeira and Paulo Marques will also be on the starting line with their Ford Ranger T1.
Meanwhile, Spain’s Luis Recuenco, co-driven by Daniel Cámara, will be among the frontrunners in the opening European round. The Cuenca native, driving a Toyota Hilux EVO, will not only target success in the European Baja Cup but also aim to be the top performer in the Spanish Championship.
Other crews to watch include Emirati driver Aliyyah Koloc and Poland’s Marcin Pasek in a Red-Lined REVO GTR; Portugal’s Alejandro Martins and David Monteiro in a Mini JCW Rally; and Poland’s Mariusz Wiatr and Lukasz Laskawiec in a Ford F-150.
The 12th edition of the Rally of Cuenca also marks the third round of the Spanish Championship, where teams arrive closely matched in points. Santiago Carnicer will be defending his title.
Juan Gassó leads the championship standings heading into Cuenca, closely followed by Eduardo Pons, just three points behind. Jesús Fuster currently holds third place, while João Ferreira and Rafael Muñoz are tied for fourth.
All eyes will also be on Santiago Carnicer and Sergio Peinado in their powerful Toyota Hilux. The driver from Castellón, reigning Spanish champion, is determined to defend his title, which he has held for three consecutive years.
Given the exceptional entry list, Baja TT Cuenca organiser Víctor Alijas commented: “Cuenca will make a strong impact across Europe, and we want teams to leave with the best sporting memories of Spain. It will be a demanding but fair race, with a spectacular route.”
The event is officially supported by the Regional Government of Castilla-La Mancha, the City Council of Cuenca, and the Provincial Council of Cuenca.
Source: Cuenca Motor
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