Michael SatterfieldThe 2025 edition of the Chihuahua Express Rally, one of the top events on Mexico’s motorsport calendar, has been canceled due to escalating security concerns in the state of Chihuahua. The rally, which has been held for 17 consecutive years, was set to commence on April 24, 2025. However, the event had to be shut down after the first round of qualifying, due to a lack of police support caused by ongoing cartel violence, as confirmed by El Diario de Chihuahua.
Organizers announced the cancellation through an official statement, citing recent violent incidents in the region as the primary reason. The decision was made in coordination with sports and state authorities to ensure the safety of participants and spectators. The rally was planned to span three stages: from Chihuahua to Madera and back, then to Divisadero, and finally to Ojinaga.
We spoke to racers who reported seeing burned-out vehicles on the roadways and rumors of a body being dropped off at a local town square. Other reports indicate that participants had expressed concerns over recent criminal activities on Chihuahua’s highways, including a bus robbery earlier in April between Jiménez and Parral. These incidents contributed to the decision to cancel the event.
The Chihuahua Express Rally is known for its challenging routes and international participation, attracting teams from countries such as Sweden, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The rally covers approximately 1,400 kilometers over several days, showcasing both classic and modern sports cars
The End of The Chihuahua Express Rally?
Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works, who has been participating in the event since 2014, expressed disappointment not just in the cancellation but in the fact that racers did not get a clear answer on if they would be refunded any portion of their entry fees or if the rally would be rescheduled. “I would go back, once it’s re-established,” said Tomlin. “But even if they announce next year, we can’t risk betting on it again; we’ve lost twice now.” He is referencing that in 2024, the Chihuahua Express Rally was initially scheduled for four days. However, it was limited to only two days of racing due to the organizers’ inability to obtain the necessary permits to close roads at various stages.
This cancellation of the Chihuahua Express Rally underscores the broader impact of regional security issues on international sporting events and tourism in Mexico. Organizers have expressed hope for improved conditions in the future, allowing the rally to resume safely. They may find that American racers are less willing to come to Mexico for the event after two years of back-to-back disappointments.
Photos Courtesy of Apex Auto Works
