Although 2021 may be looking more hopeful than 2020, it’s a rocky start, and many event organizers are still forced to move the dates of rallies and races further and further.Sonora Rallys no exception: traditionally held every March, the rally dates have now been pushed to May 9-14.

“Due to the present Covid situation and the resources needed to safely put on the rally we have decided to postpone the event to May. The safety of our racers, volunteers, and of course the local population who support the rally is our number one priority. We are working on a Covid protocol with the state and will keep you updated as info becomes available”, read the official statement from the Sonora organizers.

Sonora Rally is North America’s biggest rally race with names like Ricky Brabec andSkyler Howesdominating the entry lists. Ricky Brabec has won the race three times, while for Skyler Howes, his 2018 Sonora Rally earned him a free entry to rally Dakar. An official Road to Dakar event, Sonora offers a unique opportunity for riders to qualify for the Dakar dream.

For those wanting to sharpen their navigation skills, Sonora organizers offer their rally school navigation course just before the race. This year, Sonora will offer three classes: Rally Pro for the top-level riders, Rally Enduro for bikes up to 520cc open to amateurs, and Rally Adventure open to bikes of over 520cc and “aimed specifically at the new generation of adventure bikes like KTM 790, Yamaha Tenere 700, and Husqvarna 701 Enduro”. The Adventure category is open to amateur riders and rally first-timers, so if you’ve always wanted to try Dakar-style racing, Sonora offers a fantastic opportunity to do so.

The registration to enter the rally is now open.

Featured image: Justin Coffey/West x 1000