9th February, 2026

Participants of the iconic Budapest–Bamako–Freetown Rally triumphantly reached the finish line at Gigibonta Car Park, Lumley, to a jubilant welcome from an excited crowd of residents, officials, and tourism stakeholders. As each vehicle crossed the newly unveiled finish line, the atmosphere erupted in cheers, music, and celebration, marking the successful completion of one of the world’s most demanding adventure rallies on Sierra Leonean soil.

The Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, personally welcomed the rally teams, presenting them with Sierra Leonean scarves as a symbol of hospitality, cultural pride, and friendship. Rally Coordinator, Andrew Szabo, was present at the finish line, overseeing proceedings as certificates of participation were issued to drivers and crew members in recognition of their resilience, teamwork, and endurance throughout the transcontinental journey.

The Budapest–Bamako Rally, often described as the “world’s largest amateur rally,” spans thousands of kilometres across Europe and Africa, combining adventure, cultural exchange, and humanitarian outreach. Its extension to Freetown reinforces Sierra Leone’s growing profile as a safe, welcoming, and vibrant tourism destination. The rally brings significant socio-economic benefits, including global media exposure, increased visitor arrivals, community engagement, and opportunities for local businesses, while strengthening people-to-people ties and showcasing Sierra Leone’s natural beauty, culture, and post-conflict transformation.

MTCA Communications