Baja 1000 Makes History With First-Ever Cabo Loop Route

The world's most legendary off-road race is charting new territory this November, and locals across Baja California Sur couldn't be more excited about the historic route coming to their backyard.

SCORE International just announced that the 59th annual Baja 1000 will feature a groundbreaking "Cabo to Cabo" loop for the first time ever. The 965-mile course will start and finish on Avenida Centenario in San José del Cabo, marking the first time Los Cabos has hosted the starting line.

Around 250 teams from 15 countries are expected to tackle the challenging route from November 9 to 15. Drivers will wind their way up the East Cape, pass through La Paz and Loreto, then loop back down the Pacific Coast through Todos Santos before returning to San José del Cabo.

This isn't just a small tweak to the usual route. The entire race will unfold within Baja California Sur's borders for the first time, touching four of the state's five municipalities and bringing international attention to communities that have rarely seen race action before.

The Baja 1000 has drawn adventurers since 1967, when it grew from a simple motorcycle endurance run into the ultimate test of driver skill and vehicle durability. The race earned its reputation by challenging everything from professional racing teams to Hollywood stars like Steve McQueen and Paul Newman, who completed his last Baja 1000 just before turning 80.

The Ripple Effect

This routing change means more than just a fresh challenge for racers. Local communities throughout Baja California Sur will experience the economic boost and global spotlight that typically concentrates in Ensenada, nicknamed the "Desert Racing Capital of the World" for hosting 49 of the previous 58 races.

Juan Tintos Funcke, General Manager of SCORE International, explained that the organization deliberately rotates innovative routes every three years to keep the challenge fresh. This "Transpeninsular" version brings the thrill of world-class desert racing to communities eager to showcase their stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.

The return to Los Cabos marks only the third time the finish line has crossed into Cabo territory in the race's nearly six-decade history. Teams will compete across multiple vehicle classes, from motorcycles and ATVs to trucks and buggies, all chasing points in the SCORE World Desert Championship's season finale.

For adventure seekers and racing fans worldwide, the message is clear: Baja's legendary terrain continues to inspire new chapters in one of motorsport's greatest stories.