Paulin Powers to Podium on Stage 6 of Carta Rallye

The Ténéré Yamaha Rally Team continued its dominant performance at the 2026 Carta Rallye in Morocco, maintaining a flawless podium record after Stage 6. Gautier Paulin secured third place on the demanding penultimate stage, while teammates Kevin Gallas and Alessandro Botturi finished fifth and sixth respectively. These results position the trio strongly in the overall standings, occupying second, third, and fourth places as the rally heads into its final stage. The challenging 494 km stage from Icht to M’Hamid tested both rider skill and machine endurance, with Paulin completing the course in just under six hours, narrowly missing the fastest time by less than four minutes. Paulin’s consistent speed on the Ténéré 700 Rally was evident, having already claimed victories on earlier stages, and he remains third overall, just under 30 minutes behind the leader. Gallas, who has also enjoyed multiple podium finishes throughout the rally, sits second in the general classification, less than 21 minutes off the lead. Botturi, despite earlier penalties, has maintained a steady pace and valuable development input for the team, holding fourth place overall. The team’s continued ability to challenge the more powerful 450cc factory machines highlights the competitiveness of the Ténéré 700 Rally in the Over 450cc category. Riders acknowledged the physical and navigational demands of Stage 6, with Paulin describing the day as a tough but rewarding test of both rider and bike. Gallas noted the technical nature of the stage and the difficulties posed by dust and navigation errors, yet expressed satisfaction with his performance and optimism for the final day. Botturi emphasised the importance of maintaining a steady rhythm amid the physically taxing conditions to secure a solid result. Their reflections underline the resilience and strategic approach required to succeed in such a grueling event. From a team management perspective, Marc Bourgeois highlighted the significance of Stage 6 as a crucial test for both performance and development. He pointed out the complexity of navigation and the fatigue affecting riders, noting that even experienced competitors faced challenges. This stage provided valuable insights into areas for improvement, particularly in navigation skills, which will inform future preparations. Despite some lost time, the overall assessment was positive, reinforcing the team’s confidence as they approach the final stage of the rally. With just one stage remaining, the Ténéré Yamaha Rally Team is poised to conclude the Carta Rallye with another strong showing. The final leg, comprising a shorter but still demanding 121 km course around M’Hamid, offers a last opportunity for the riders to consolidate their positions and potentially challenge for higher honours. The team’s consistent podium finishes throughout the event underscore their competitive edge and the robust performance of the Ténéré 700 Rally in rally raid conditions.