Two Monegasque women have embarked on a remarkable journey through the Moroccan desert as part of the 34th Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc, an all-female off-road rally with a mission beyond motorsport. Racing under the banner Sœurs de Route (Road Sisters), Juliette Rapaire and Sarah Gharsalli are Monaco’s sole representatives among the 172 crews competing in this endurance event — and they’re doing it with purpose.
The rally, which officially began on Friday, April 11, was launched in the presence of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II. True to its unique format, the Rallye des Gazelles rewards navigation skills over speed, with no GPS allowed. Competitors must find their way across 1,300 kilometres of Moroccan Sahara using only a compass, map, and ruler — all while aiming to travel the shortest possible distance between checkpoints.
Juliette and Sarah created Sœurs de Route as more than a rally team — it’s a non-profit initiative dedicated to encouraging women to take on sporting challenges while supporting causes close to their hearts. For Sarah, who has lived with multiple sclerosis since 2017, the rally is a statement of defiance against the limitations often associated with chronic illness. Their journey is raising awareness for the Fondation France Sclérose en Plaques and proving that determination and solidarity can carry you far — even into the depths of the desert.
Backed by a host of Monegasque supporters, including SBM, the Prince’s Government, and the Monegasque Chess Federation, the duo has taken to the sands with a mix of courage, camaraderie and cause-driven spirit. The Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles concludes on Saturday, April 26 in Essaouira, but the message carried by Sœurs de Route will echo well beyond the dunes — one of strength, sisterhood, and unstoppable drive.
Image courtesy of Stéphane Danna / Communication department
