Athul Thomas and Binil Babu from Kerala emerged as champions in the 4X4 Stock class at the Rainforest Challenge (India) in Goa, driving their Maruti Jimny through extreme terrain.

Key Takeaways

  • Kerala's 'Killerbull' team won the 4X4 Stock class championship.
  • Athul Thomas and Binil Babu secured the win using a Maruti Jimny.
  • This marks the first time a Kerala team has won in this specific category.
  • The duo scored an impressive 1,247 out of 1,400 points.

In a display of sheer grit and mechanical precision, Athul Thomas and Binil Babu from Kerala have been crowned champions of the 4X4 Stock class at the recently concluded Rainforest Challenge (India) 2026 held in Goa. Competing under the team name 'Killerbull', the duo navigated through some of the most treacherous terrains in the country.

Driving a Maruti Jimny, the pair successfully conquered 14 grueling stages spread over four days. The competition, set against the backdrop of the intense monsoon season, tested the limits of both man and machine against mud, slush, and dense forest paths where traditional roads simply do not exist.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this victory highlights the growing prowess of regional motorsport talent in India. Despite the lack of mainstream corporate backing, drivers from Kerala are proving they can compete at a global standard, even in highly specialized off-road categories.

"The terrain is tough; you are literally driving through forests with uneven paths and no roads, just cones marking the way." - Binil Babu

Athul Thomas, a veteran with over 300 motorsport events under his belt, provided the driving expertise, while Binil Babu, a seasoned motorbike racer, transitioned into the role of co-driver for this high-stakes event. Their synergy was evident in their high score of 1,247 points.

Historical Background

The Rainforest Challenge is a globally recognized extreme off-road motorsport event headquartered in Malaysia. The Indian edition, held annually in Goa, is ranked among the top 10 toughest motor races globally, demanding extreme endurance from participants.

Did You Know?: The Rainforest Challenge is rated as one of the top five toughest off-road races in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What vehicle did the winning team use?
The winning Kerala duo used a Maruti Jimny to secure their victory in the 4X4 Stock class.

2. How difficult is the Rainforest Challenge?
It is considered one of the top 10 toughest motor races globally, featuring extreme mud, rain, and forest terrain.