Why India’s ultimate off-road showdown prefers Goa

DURGESH PARMAR

Every year, as the monsoon rain lashes Goa’s hinterlands, a different kind of storm brews, this one powered by revving engines, screaming winches, and the unshakable will of India’s toughest off-roaders.

This is RFC India, the country’s most gruelling off-road motorsport event, held annually in the treacherous monsoon terrain of Goa.

Launched in 2014 as part of the global Rainforest Challenge series, RFC India has grown in scale, skill, and stature with each passing year.

“RFC India is not just a motorsport event. It’s a mental, physical and mechanical battle against nature,” says Ashish Gupta, Founder and Director of Cougar Motorsport, which organises the event in India.

"It pushes competitors to their limits and often beyond. And yet, most of them come back, year after year, for the sheer challenge and the unmatched thrill,” Gupta adds.

The event takes place over six days, comprising 26 Special Stages (SS) that are designed to test every facet of off-road competence, from precision driving to winching, recovery, and navigation.

The locations change yearly, but are typically tucked deep into South Goa’s hinterlands, across areas like Quepem, Verna and Loutolim. Goa’s unforgiving monsoon adds its own layer of unpredictability, turning gentle slopes into slick inclines, and paths into mud traps.

Physically, participants endure long hours of vehicle recovery, often waist-deep in slush. Psychologically, they must navigate exhaustion, team dynamics, and split-second decision-making.

“You get little sleep. You're wet most of the time. Your machine is being battered constantly. But, the mental high is unmatched,” says Gupta.

Despite, or because of, its punishing nature, the event is considered a badge of honour within the off-road community. Many describe it as the most exhausting, yet fulfilling, week of their year.

This year marks a major milestone: the 11th edition of RFC India. The 2025 event will introduce two new categories: ‘Modified’ and ‘Stock’, in addition to the long-standing ‘Extreme’ category.

A record 75 teams will compete across these three formats, making it the biggest edition yet.

“The increase in categories reflects how much the off-road community in India has matured,” Gupta notes. “Earlier, only heavily modified vehicles could participate. Now, we’re seeing a growing interest in production-class vehicles and newer drivers, which is great for the sport’s future.”

The level of preparation has evolved, too. Off-roaders now spend months training, physically and strategically, while their vehicles undergo serious upgrades.

“From roll cages and snorkels to winches, diff locks, and custom suspension systems, each machine is a beast built for war,” Gupta explains. “And, the drivers? They’re athletes in their own right.”

While RFC India is an elite motorsport event, it also offers global exposure. The top Indian team earns a direct entry into the RFC Grand Finale in Malaysia, widely regarded as one of the top five off-road competitions globally.

Past winners have gone on to become brand ambassadors for the likes of Mountain Dew and Tata Motors.

Goa has remained the constant in this fast-evolving journey.

“Goa gives us everything from insane terrain to dependable infrastructure, great connectivity, and a culture that embraces adventure,” Gupta says. “We’ve built long-standing relationships with local landowners, communities, and authorities. It's the perfect blend of challenge and convenience.”

Indeed, the event is hosted on leased private estates and Comunidade properties, never in protected forests or sanctuaries. All activities follow a strict environmental charter, signed by every participant.

“There is a leave-no-trace policy. No tree cutting, no garbage. We also have an Environment Steward who ensures that we restore every site to its original condition,” Gupta affirms.

RFC India also benefits the local economy. The week-long event brings in hundreds of participants, crew members, and spectators, resulting in a significant boost to the travel, hospitality, and F&B sectors.

“We’ve also seen more Goans competing in RFC India over the years, which is fantastic,” Gupta adds. Notably, Cedrick Jordan D’Silva, a Goan off-roader, was crowned the overall champion in 2023, a win that thrilled local fans.

As the engines roar back to life this July, RFC India, once again, promises not just a motorsport competition, but a visceral, unforgettable experience.

“This event is raw, real, and deeply rewarding,” Gupta says. “You may leave exhausted, but you leave stronger, and that’s what keeps people coming back.”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)