The Palais Nikaïa hosted the launch of the 35th edition of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc on Saturday, March 28, 2026. 160 female teams set off for a journey through the Moroccan desert, involving navigation, endurance, and team spirit.
The official start of the 35th edition of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles of Morocco took place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Nice. The site of the Palais Nikaïa gathered participants, partners, and institutional representatives around this launch. The event is held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
160 female crews started from the city of Nice. Nearly 320 participants make up this edition, representing eight nationalities. Teams from France, Switzerland, Morocco, Belgium, Canada, and Italy are among those involved. The raid takes place from March 28 to April 11, with a course through several regions of Morocco.
The departure ceremony brought together the Consul General of Morocco in Marseille and representatives of the event’s partners. Speeches were given before the start signal. The crews then left Nice under the public’s gaze.
A journey between navigation and diversity of categories
The rally is based on a principle of non-speed navigation. Each crew must reach markers using a map and compass. This format sets this competition apart in the motorsport landscape. The objective is not based on speed but on the accuracy of the route.
Four categories make up this edition. Participants compete in Quads-SSV, 4×4-Trucks, electric vehicles, and Crossovers. This diversity reflects an evolution of the rally. The organization simultaneously maintains a focus on technological simplicity and crews’ autonomy.
After departing from Nice, the participants will reach Tangier by Monday. The route will continue to Meknes, then Erfoud. The next stages will take place in southeastern Morocco. Stops are planned in M’hamid El Ghizlane and Merzouga, which serves as the base camp. The final arrival is scheduled for Essaouira.
The desert constitutes the main terrain of this adventure. Navigation conditions, climatic variations, and resource management demand rigorous organization from each team. Mutual support between participants remains a central element of the rally.
The opening day in Nice also took on a cultural dimension. A concert by Joseph Kamel energized the evening. Dance performances accompanied the activities. A giant mural was created by a local artist in connection with the event.
Created in 1990, the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc advocates a specific approach to motorsport. The organization emphasizes mutual support, self-transcendence, and responsible values. The event acts as a platform for both commitment and competition.
For the 2026 edition, the event is backed by a well-known ambassador. Actress Michelle Yeoh supports the rally. Her presence aims to enhance the event’s international visibility.
The departure from Nice confirms the city’s position in hosting major events. The link between the French Riviera and Morocco is part of a continuum, opening up towards desert territories and showcasing unique journeys.
The teams now embark on a two-week itinerary. Each stage requires navigation choices and collective management. The return to Essaouira will mark the end of this edition. The final ranking will depend on adherence to the course and the ability to minimize kilometers traveled.
This 35th edition is part of a long history. The rally continues to attract participants with diverse profiles. Seasoned athletes and beginners share the same goal: to find the right course in the desert, while advancing as a team.
