By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 9, 2025 – The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs has announced that Sierra Leone will once again serve as the finish line destination for the 2026 Budapest Bamako Rally, now rebranded as the Budapest Bamako Freetown Challenge. Organizers also unveiled a new logo, featuring the Sierra Leonean flag, replacing the previous Malian emblem, symbolizing the growing importance of the country as the final stop for the world’s largest amateur rally.
Having successfully hosted four previous editions, Sierra Leone has welcomed nearly 2,500 international participants over the years. The 2026 rally is expected to attract an unprecedented number of adventurers—an estimated 1,500 participants from over 80 countries—further elevating Sierra Leone’s status in the global tourism industry.
Officials anticipate that the event will generate significant social and economic benefits, including increased tourism revenue, heightened global media exposure, and strengthened international partnerships. The selection of Sierra Leone as the finish line destination for both the 2028 and 2030 editions of the rally further reinforces the country’s reputation as a premier hub for adventure tourism.
Beyond the rally’s sporting dimension, organizers are committed to making a lasting impact on Sierra Leone through charitable initiatives, including supporting local organizations and launching tree-planting campaigns to offset the rally’s carbon footprint.
In a significant boost to Sierra Leone’s creative economy, the 2026 rally will feature live performances by one of Europe’s most celebrated rock bands, who will collaborate with local artists and cultural groups for dynamic shows at two of the country’s most iconic beach locations.
The cross-continental journey will commence in Budapest, traverse multiple European capitals, enter Africa via Spain and Morocco, and culminate in Freetown. Newly tailored tour packages for the Sierra Leone segment aim to encourage participants to extend their stay, further stimulating the country’s tourism sector.
The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs remains dedicated to leveraging platforms like the Budapest Bamako Freetown Challenge to promote Sierra Leone’s natural beauty, resilience, and hospitality to a global audience.