Abu Dhabi, 12 January 2012: Under the patronage of The Ministry of Tourism and the Egyptian Tourist Authority the World Cup rally 2012 was hosted in Egypt from 8 – 10 January 2012 and began from Alexandria and ran through Ain Sokhna and Safaga. This event is considered to be the first of its kind to cross Africa from its Northern tip on the Mediterranean Sea, till the Southern-most point at the Cape of Good Hope, in Cape Town, South Africa.
The kickoff event falls in line with Egypt’s strategy of hosting important historical, cultural and artistic events in the region. In addition to that Egypt is considered to be a popular destination for tourists from around the globe and this event reflects the efforts of the Egyptian Tourist Authority to promote tourism through various international sporting events.
Commenting on the event, Amr El Ezabi The Chairman of Egyptian Tourist Authority, said: "This is the first time that the World Cup rally passes through Egypt, which stands as an opportunity to highlight Egypt’s important diverse features as a tourist destination. This event also provides an opportunity for competitors to enjoy the ancient Egyptian history and experience its modern sense of adventure and exciting activities which include prominent international events that signify Egypt’s importance on a global level.”
The British Prime Minister had officially flagged the race off in front of London’s House of Parliament on the 1st of January 2012. Participants then passed through France, Italy, and Greece, before crossing the Mediterranean to Egypt. Following their arrival the competitors will be spending 2 Nights in Egypt with a variety of off-road sections to tackle, after which they will board a ferry to Sudan then will drive through Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Namibia and finally reach South Africa and Cape Town where the Prime Minister of South Africa will welcome the competitors at the finish line on the 28th of January 2012 and conclude the event.
The London to Cape Town World Cup Rally included over 100 competitors from 15 different countries across the globe and includes various unique classic categories of vehicles manufactured between 1924 and 1980, in addition to 4X4 vehicles. The car classes are designed to demonstrate the “ultimate road-test for a reasonably priced car” and a supreme driving adventure through the 15,000 kilometer rally.