Budapest–Bamako Rally 2025 Reaches the Finish Line in The Gambia

The 2025 Budapest–Bamako Rally reached its conclusion in The Gambia on 2 February 2025, with a finish-line event at the Senegambia Football Field. The celebration was hosted by the Honorary Consul of Hungary to The Gambia, Hon. Sir Farimang Saho, and organised by Abubacarr Saho.

Established by Andrew Szabo in 2005, the Budapest–Bamako Rally has developed into a major international amateur adventure rally, bringing together participants through travel, endurance and community engagement. Preparations for the Gambian finish-line event began months in advance, involving coordination with rally organisers, government institutions, sponsors, businesses and other stakeholders.

The event also received support from several private-sector partners. Africell supported publicity, advertising and event infrastructure, while Brussels Airlines, GACH Global, Bell Bottling Company and others contributed to the organisation and hospitality surrounding the event.

Preparations extended beyond the finish-line venue. Arrangements were made at the Gambian border to facilitate the arrival of more than 200 rally participants and their vehicles. Support was also coordinated for currency exchange, while Africell provided 200 SIM cards to help participants remain connected during their stay in The Gambia.

On the day of the event, rally vehicles crossed the finish line to a warm Gambian welcome. Participants received certificates from the organisers, including Hon. Sir Farimang Saho and the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Hon. Abdoulie Jobe, before the vehicles were displayed at the venue.

The official programme began with remarks from Budapest–Bamako founder Andrew Szabo, who welcomed participants and reflected on the history of the rally. Hon. Sir Farimang Saho subsequently addressed the gathering, highlighting the rally’s legacy, its ability to connect nations and cultures, and his vision for its future, while welcoming participants to The Gambia. Cultural performances added a distinctly Gambian character to the celebration.

The successful conclusion of the Budapest–Bamako Rally provided another platform for strengthening connections between Hungary and The Gambia while showcasing the country’s hospitality, culture and potential as a destination for international events and adventure tourism.