Barring any major setbacks, the 2024 World Rally-Raid Championship’s SSV category is set to see a showdown between Sebastián Guayasamín and Yasir Seaidan at the season-ending Rallye du Maroc. The two drivers are only six points apart in the closest points battle among the seven W2RC classes.
Seaidan initially led the standings in the first half of the season after finishing as the top SSV driver at the Dakar Rally and Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, both events where he was eligible for points. Despite not having signed up for the championship, his performances earned him maximum points by finishing ahead of W2RC drivers at both races.
Guayasamín, on the other hand, was 59 points behind Seaidan after Abu Dhabi but quickly narrowed the gap in the following rounds where Seaidan faced mechanical issues. Even though Guayasamín did not win either event, his consistent finishes helped him close the points difference going into the Rallye du Maroc.
For Guayasamín to secure the championship, he simply needs to beat Seaidan. However, Seaidan will need some luck to overcome the points deficit, especially if both drivers finish closely. Seaidan will also need to focus on winning stages while ensuring other points-earning drivers finish between him and Guayasamín.
While Seaidan has experience in desert terrains similar to Morocco, Guayasamín needs to stay composed under pressure to ensure a strong finish in the championship. Both drivers are preparing mentally and physically for the intense competition at the finale.
Although Ramilo and Busi are still in contention for the championship, their chances are slim compared to Guayasamín and Seaidan. The co-drivers’ championship is also closely contested, with Fausto Mota leading Fernando Acosta by 11 points.
SSV is the only FIA class where the top two contenders are separated by single digits, adding to the excitement of the championship battle. The Rallye du Maroc is scheduled to take place from 6-11 October.
