BAJA

バハ

The SCORE Baja 1000 is one of the world’s toughest off-road races, held every November on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula as the final round of the SCORE World Desert Championship. First held in 1967, it is legendary for its nonstop format and extreme conditions. The roughly 1,300 km course crosses deserts, rocky hills, dry riverbeds, and mountains, with no breaks from start to finish. Drivers face scorching heat, night-time cold, and swirling dust, with race times often exceeding 20 hours.

Competitors race in a variety of vehicles, including Trophy Trucks, buggies, UTVs, motorcycles, quads, and modified “Baja Bugs.” Completion alone is a major achievement, as the finish rate is around 50%. Success relies on both vehicle performance and strategic support. Top teams use multiple chase vehicles for refueling, repairs, and driver swaps, while some brave competitors tackle the race with minimal crew—or even solo.

The Baja 1000 draws global attention, with past participants including Mario Andretti, Jenson Button, Robby Gordon, and Hollywood stars Steve McQueen and Paul Newman. Today, professionals and amateurs alike take on the challenge, attracting over 200,000 spectators. More than a race, it is a test of endurance, skill, and the bond between driver and machine, immortalizing those who conquer it in motorsport history.