Marathon des Sables 2025 stage two: Nakache and Rachid El-Morabity in charge

Soft sand and greater elevation gain were on the menu for stage two of the Marathon des Sables Legendary.

The distance was up to 40km and the height gain over 600 metres – here’s what happened…

Women’s race – Early daylight

Maryline Nakache of France, the 2023 winner, extended her lead over reigning champion Aziza El Amrany (MAR) with more than a 30-minute gap on day two.

Although Aziza was still leading at CP2, Maryline accelerated from CP3 and broke away from the rest of the field.

In the overall standings, Maryline now has a 40-minute lead. Aziza is still in second place, but closely followed by Ragna Debats (NED), currently third and just ten minutes behind.

A tougher stage than the previous day, with more elevation gain and a terrain as diverse as it is unforgiving.
Temperatures hit 30°C, with a real feel closer to 38°C under the blazing sun.
Rocky paths, deep sand, technical sections — the desert turned up the intensity. pic.twitter.com/Y6FoV5oOS2

— MARATHON DES SABLES (@marathonDsables) April 7, 2025

Men’s race – Close between brothers

The men’s race is shaping up to be just as close as last year, when just seconds separated the El-Morabity brothers.

Rachid El-Morabity was behind until CP2 on stage two, but overtook his rivals to finish ahead of Mohamed El-Morabity, Ahmed Ouikhalfen, and Hamid Yachou.

Rachid now leads the general ranking, one minute ahead of his brother.

All of which means the 85.3km stage on Wednesday / Thursday is looking decisive.

The battle for the women’s podium continues with Maryline finishing first, overtaking Aziza who led for much of the race. Ragna secures third place.
In the men’s competition, despite a start in the top 5, Rachid claimed victory ahead of Mohamed, with Ahmed finishing third. pic.twitter.com/J1eNoSrpCu

— MARATHON DES SABLES (@marathonDsables) April 7, 2025