They say that the perpetrator returns to the scene of the crime, and that is exactly what happened in the case of the Slovak NORWIT Racing Team, which started the African competition in front of the cameras of Teleran and returned here again today.
Surely all fans of long-distance rally competitions know that Martin Benko and Marek Sýkor achieved a wonderful result at the Africa Eco Race 2026, when they brought home to Slovakia second place in the SSV category. This success is also underlined by the fact that they were up against competition from all over the world. And they started this success in front of the cameras of the Marquesan Teleran, where they returned today.
Let’s remember what actually happened in Africa. The track measured more than six thousand kilometers, which were of course off-road, i.e. on gravel, stones, and sand dunes. The competitors visited three countries during the race – Morocco, Mauritania and Senegal. The weather at this year’s Africa Eco Race was a separate chapter, with severe cold and snow, heavy rains and sandstorms. On the other hand, there was also extreme drought and extreme temperatures, and even swarms of really big locusts and wild animals that moved freely around the track.
In long-distance competitions, the crew is actually made up of a well-coordinated trio: driver, co-driver and car. It must be said that each of these three got a lot of work done during the twelve stages. In the case of the crew, the only relief came during the night while sleeping, while in the case of the car itself, the mechanics came to the rescue, who took care of it from evening to morning after it reached the bivouac in a more or less broken state, while in the morning it was always waiting for Martin and Marek in perfect condition, ready to be broken down again during the day.
“It was challenging, but we knew what we were getting into. I have already completed Africa for the ninth time, eight of which were on a motorbike. It is clear that it is a little easier and safer in a car. I am really very happy that together with Marek we managed to achieve an excellent result. We have a lot of new experiences, but also other goals for the future,” said Martin Benko.
One thing is certain today. Martin Benko and Marek Sýkora, together with the Taurus T3 Max vehicle, the NORWIT Racing Team and the dedication of their mechanics, managed it all successfully, and Slovakia can be rightly proud of them. And all these events should also form the preparation for the Dakar Rally 2027. Of course, we will inform you about all the news in the NORWIT Racing Team during the season.