In the second leg of the 2025 Marathon des Sables, which covered a distance of 40.8 kilometers with an ascent of 614 meters, competitors faced extreme temperatures yet again. Despite the harsh conditions and sandy terrain, Moroccans continued to showcase their prowess. Notably, French athlete Maryline Nakache took the lead in the women's division amidst these trials.

Following Mohamed El Morabity's triumph in the initial leg, his elder sibling, Rachid El Morabity, emerged victorious on Monday during the race from Oued Tijekht in the region of Errachidia to the night’s designated campsite. Finishing with a time of 5 hours, 54 minutes, and 35 seconds, he narrowly beat Mohamed by 1 minute and 17 seconds. Completing the top three was yet another Moroccan competitor, Hamid Yachou, who concluded the event 5 minutes and 5 seconds after the leading runner.

Following the first two stages, the three Moroccans remain closely matched, setting up an intense competition for the general rankings, especially as they approach the crucial 85.3-kilometer stage.

In the women's division, Maryline Nakache remains impressive. She finished this second leg in 7 hours, 7 minutes, and 27 seconds, moving up to sixth position in the combined overall standings. This performance increased her lead over key rivals: Morocco's Aziza El Amrany (who clocked in at 7 hours, 48 minutes, and 31 seconds) and Netherlands' Ragna Debats (with a time of 7 hours, 58 minutes, and 51 seconds). Her display further underlines her exceptional condition amidst such challenging circumstances.