The 39th SCORE San Felipe 250 returns to Baja California March 25–29. It kicks off the 2026 World Desert Championship season. This is the fastest race on the SCORE calendar. It is a single loop of approximately 250 miles through the desert east of San Felipe. The race finishes at the town’s Malecón waterfront. For the 11th consecutive year, every SCORE championship race will be held exclusively in Baja California, according to SCORE International.
Pre-running begins March 21. Then qualifying is March 26. Tech inspection and contingency day fall on March 27. The SCORE San Felipe 250 2026 race itself runs March 28. Awards follow on March 29.
The defending champion is Alan Ampudia of Mexico. He became the first Mexican driver to win three consecutive SCORE Trophy Truck races and overall victories in 2025. Trophy Trucks are 950-horsepower unlimited buggies. They are the headliners. But the entry list also includes Class 1 open-wheel cars, TT Spec trucks, unlimited UTVs, and motorcycle and ATV classes.
Where to Watch the SCORE San Felipe 250
The Malecón in downtown San Felipe is the start/finish line. It is the best spot for casual spectators. You can watch the trucks launch in the morning. Then you see them come roaring back hours later. Course access points along the loop let committed fans set up at desert vantage points. However, you will need a vehicle with decent ground clearance to reach most of them. Also, stay well back from the course. These trucks throw rocks and debris at high speed.
Getting to San Felipe
San Felipe sits about 125 miles south of the Mexicali-Calexico border crossing. Take Highway 5 south from Mexicali. The drive takes about 2.5 hours. Mexican auto insurance is required. Day policies run $15–$25 USD. So gas up in Mexicali. Stations thin out south of the city.
Hotels in San Felipe fill up weeks before race week. Budget motels on the Malecón start around $60–$80 USD per night. RV and camping spots along the beach cost $20–$40 USD per night.
For a full guide to San Felipe including beaches, fishing, and where to eat, see our San Felipe visitor guide.