The Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa (TGRSA) team achieved a consistent performance at the Algoa National Rally, with Mark Jones and Kes Naidoo driving their Toyota GR Yaris to two fourth-place finishes in the NRC2 class. This result elevates the duo to second place in the NRC2 class standings of the 2026 National Rally Championship, with one round remaining. The Algoa Rally consisted of two rounds, with the first round taking place on Friday and the second on Saturday.
The first round, held on Friday, featured fast and natural mountain stages in the Longmore Forest, including a night stage. Jones described the event as a "real rally" with challenging conditions, particularly during the night stage where visibility was limited. Despite these challenges, the GR Yaris performed well, and the team secured a fourth-place finish in the NRC2 class. Jones praised the event, noting that it was a true test of rally driving skills.
The second round, held on Saturday, was heavily impacted by heavy rain, which flooded the stages and forced organizers to assess the conditions before deciding to proceed. The Spidersweb stage was particularly affected, with competitors facing treacherous mud and slippery conditions. However, Jones and Naidoo adapted well, and their times improved significantly as the stage dried out. Jones credited the GR Yaris's all-wheel-drive system for its performance in the challenging conditions.
Jones also praised his co-driver, Kes Naidoo, who has grown into his role over the course of the season. Naidoo has been working as a full co-driver, providing vital support to Jones throughout the event. The team's double finish marks a return to form after retirements at the GR Legends Rally and the Ermelo Rally earlier in the season.
The results of the Algoa Rally have been ratified by Motorsport South Africa, and Jones and Naidoo now sit second in the NRC2 standings with 95 points. They trail leader Bruce Swatton, who has 132 points, and are eight points clear of third-placed Lynton Swatton, who has 87 points.
The TGRSA team will now focus on the final round of the 2026 season, the TRAC N4 Rally at Dullstroom, scheduled for October 30-31. Jones stated that the team's goal is to have a solid outing and bring the car home. Team Manager Leeroy Poulter emphasized the importance of bouncing back after the team's two DNFs earlier in the season.
The Toyota GR Yaris's performance at the Algoa Rally demonstrates its capabilities in challenging conditions. With one round remaining, Jones and Naidoo will aim to secure a strong finish to the season and prepare for future events. The team's progress in the NRC2 class standings reflects their consistent performance and adaptability throughout the season.
Key points
- Mark Jones and Kes Naidoo moved up to second in the NRC2 class standings.
- The Toyota GR Yaris crew achieved two fourth-place finishes in the Algoa Rally's NRC2 class.
- The team will compete in the final round of the 2026 season at Dullstroom on October 30-31.
