The first edition was an experiment, the second a confirmation of success; now, the third edition of the Baja dello Stella (September 25–26) is fast approaching. The organizers hope, above all, to see growth in the number of participants. The hard work and dedication shown by the Associazione Motori dello Stella of Rivignano Teor—supported by the Fuoristrada Club 4x4 Pordenone —deserve to be rewarded with an entry list that reflects the excellent momentum the 2026 Italian Cross Country Championship has enjoyed so far.
All the ingredients are in place for a fantastic competitive outing that combines sport with tourism. Visitors can enjoy the genuine hospitality of the southern part of Friuli spanning the municipalities of Rivignano Teor, Varmo, Talmassons, Pocenia, and Palazzolo dello Stella, and explore scenic and architectural gems. Chief among these is Villa Ottelio Savorgnan in Ariis, the setting for the tragic tale that is believed to have inspired Shakespeare’s immortal Romeo e Giulietta. Naturally, the main focus remains the race itself: the 3rd Baja dello Stella features a course with a firm surface that tests the competitors' skills without causing excessive mechanical strain. This is a significant factor; while off-road racing is inherently defined by unpredictability and rough terrain, excessively rugged courses carry the risk of major, costly mechanical failures.
In 2024, with separate classifications for cross-country vehicles and SSV, the respective winners were Emanuele Mengozzi in a Toyota Hilux Overdrive and Andrea Castagnera in a Can-Am Maverick X3, with the classic off-road vehicle setting the fastest overall time. In 2025, under a unified classification, Kevin Manocchi, not yet of legal age, achieved a remarkable victory in a Yamaha YXZ1000R, with SSV taking all of the top five finishing spots. How will things play out this year? The odds favor the lightweight tubular vehicles, given their dominance at the Artugna event, which shares similar characteristics. However, rain significantly influenced the outcome of that earlier contest, so the Stella race could shuffle the deck if conditions remain dry. This sets the stage for an even more thrilling season finale in November at the Raid of the Champions in Hungary.
Italian Baja Press Office
Mike's Photo
