Hero Motosports Team Rally has made history with Ross Branch winning the rider's title in the 2024 FIM World Rally-Raid Championship. This milestone marks Hero as the first Indian manufacturer to claim a FIM world trophy, breaking the KTM group's (KTM, GasGas, and Husqvarna) dominance since 2014. Hero now joins an elite group of just six teams to have won this prestigious title. This season also follows Branch's second-place finish at Dakar 2024, Hero's first-ever Dakar podium. The team's success highlights India’s rising competitiveness on the global rally stage.
Ross Branch said: 'No words can capture the magnitude of this incredible moment. I am thrilled to see the entire team’s hard work come together, and witnessing everyone’s happiness is a success in itself. I feel fortunate to be part of such a passionate family! Thank you, to everyone who believed in me and provided me with this opportunity. It is truly overwhelming!
Also Read: Skoda Enyaq RS Race Concept Unveiled as 340bhp Track-Ready EV
'As we look ahead into 2025, I see a bright future for our young team — this is just the beginning. This victory represents one of the biggest steps in the right direction for Hero, and I am really excited about the future. Thank you all for your unwavering support.'
Hero Motosports Team Rally: 2024 Championship Run
Ross Branch was the key rider for Hero Motosports Team Rally in the 2024 FIM World Rally Raid Championship. His strong finishes and the team's smart strategies kept Hero at the top of both the rider and manufacturer standings. The season started with a historic moment at the Dakar Rally, where Hero became the first Indian manufacturer to reach the podium. Branch's impressive performance earned him second place overall, despite facing challenges when three teammates had to retire due to injuries and mechanical issues. His resilience shone through.
Hero's momentum carried into the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, where Aaron Mare secured Hero's first win in a World Championship event. Branch finished fourth, overcoming mechanical problems and maintaining his lead in the rider standings. The Rally Raid Portugal was challenging for Branch. While his teammate Buhler achieved a podium finish, Branch struggled with the technical terrain but still managed to stay at the top of the championship standings.
Also Read: F1: Toyota Returns to Formula 1 with Haas As Technical Partner
In Argentina's Desafío Ruta 40, Branch demonstrated his skills again. Competing in tough winter conditions, he finished in the top five, keeping a narrow lead heading into the final round. The Rallye du Maroc was the turning point. Branch's stage win and his rival's withdrawal set the stage for his championship victory. With a steady approach, he secured the 2024 World Rally Raid Championship rider's title, becoming the first African rider to do so.
This win marked India's first FIM world championship, establishing Hero Motosports as a strong contender in rally racing. While Honda took the constructor's title, Hero's achievement as the sixth manufacturer to have a rider win a FIM World Championship trophy paves the way for even more success in the future.
Write your Comment