Africa Eco Race reveals entry list for Monaco-to-Dakar rally raid

The Africa Eco Race, the world’s largest cross-border rally raid, has announced the list of participants for its 2025 edition.

Created in 2008, the Africa Eco Race is a one-of-a-kind rally raid that follows in the footsteps of legendary African rallies, emphasizing a spirit of adventure and environmental respect. This international rally connects Monaco to Dakar, offering stages through the stunning landscapes of Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal, culminating on the shores of the iconic Lac Rose.

The Africa Eco Race stands out for its commitment to responsible competition. The event integrates eco-friendly practices to minimize its environmental impact and implements solidarity actions to benefit local communities. It attracts professional and amateur racers from around the world -- competing in cars, SSVs, motorcycles, quads, and trucks -- who share a passion for pushing their limits, adventure, and environmental preservation.

This year's competition will kick off on Dec. 28, covering 5,903 km (3668 miles), including 3,572 km of timed specials. With a total of 155 participants and 120 vehicles across the Moto, Quad, Car, SSV, Truck, Historic, and Raid categories, the event's competitors represent 21 nationalities, from the U.S. and Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia.

A total of 66 drivers and co-drivers in 31 vehicles will compete in the Africa Eco Race across the Auto, SSV, Quad, Truck, Raid, and Historic categories.

In the Auto category, the competition promises to be tight and full of surprises, with high-level teams in the mix. Among them are the Czech duo Tomas Ourednicek and Lukas Bartak from Team Toyota Gazoo Racing Czech, the French crew Benoit Fretin and Cedric Duple in their impressive Century C6, the Hungarian pair Varga Imre and Toma József driving a Toyota Hilux Overdrive, the Dutch team Wietse Tates and Koen Wessling with their Bowler Wildcat, and the duo of Vincent Vroninks (Netherlands) and Dave Berghmans (Belgium) in their Red-Lined VK56.\

Additionally, some 10 teams in the Auto category have opted for the Raid class, following the competitors’ course via GPS without the pressure of timed competition, allowing them to fully enjoy the Africa Eco Race experience.

In the Moto category, the battle promises to be fierce with 78

competitors. The two-wheel category will be highly contested with 78 riders, including 28 in the Xtreme Rider by Motul category, dedicated to "malle moto" participants. This fully booked category highlights riders taking on the ultimate challenge: facing the rally without external technical assistance, managing their bike maintenance independently.

Several riders are worth keeping a close eye on. Italian rider Jacopo Cerutti, winner in 2024 on his Tuareg Aprilia, will return to defend his title. Alessandro Botturi and Pol Tarres, who finished second and third last year, will again represent Yamaha, aiming to bring another victory to the brand. Norwegian Pål Anders Ullevålseter, a two-time Africa Eco Race winner with three runner-up finishes to his name, is also making his return to African tracks. Italian Matteo Bottino, fresh off his victory in the 2024 FIM European Rally Cup Championship, will be another contender to watch as he lines up with his KOVE 800X Rally LS. This event marks the debut of the machine, with the brand holding lofty ambitions in rally raid.

Frenchman Eric Bernard will also join the competition, aiming for a strong performance. Bernard, who has 17 Dakar participations under his belt, is returning to African tracks 27 years after his first Paris-Dakar.

Among the many skilled amateur riders aiming for a strong result, Patrice Carillon stands out. Winner of the malle moto category in the previous edition, he returns this year with high ambitions. His experience and determination make him a strong contender for victory in this demanding category. Also noteworthy is the presence of British rider Stephanie Rowe and Frenchman Vincent Biau, who form the Petokask team. Having made a name for themselves in several rounds of the FIM European and World Rally Raid Championships, they too are aiming for a top finish in the malle moto rankings.

A special mention goes to Thierry Costard, who, after several participations in the Africa Eco Race, will be embarking on a new adventure with his son and co-rider, Maxence Costard. Together, they aim to create a memorable family experience on this challenging journey.

Among the Moto entrants, 11 riders will participate in the Raid category, free from the pressures of timed competition. Using GPS navigation, these enthusiasts will focus on the essentials: reaching Lac Rose and fully experiencing the unique adventure of a rally raid from the inside.

In Mauritania, these “raiders” will be joined by a special guest: Stéphane Peterhansel, a rally raid legend with multiple Dakar victories. He will return to the African tracks on a Yamaha, revisiting the terrain that forged his legacy.

The Historic category, introduced in 2024 and overseen by Yves Loubet, offers a competition for vehicles built between 1970 and 2007. After a successful first edition last year, this category continues to grow, providing a perfect stage for exceptional machines, including several Porsche 911s, a MAN Kat1 truck, and Nissan Patrols.

Eric and Tom Clayes, winners of last year’s edition, will return with their 1978 Land Cruiser, a first-owner vehicle in completely original condition. René Declercq and Kurt Dujardyn will also compete again with their Bombardier Iltis after participating in 2024.

“We have gathered over 150 passionate men and women, not counting support teams, ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure and exceptional competition across Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal," said Jean-Louis Schlesser, director of the Africa Eco Race. "The route designed by our reconnaissance and organizational teams awaits them, with its incredible landscapes, beloved local populations, challenges, and tough terrain.

"We invite all participants, and anyone wishing to witness the departure of these heroes, to join us in the Italian towns of Bordighera, Vallecrosia, and Camporosso for technical checks starting Dec. 27, and at the Monaco port on Dec. 28 in the evening for the rally's departure ceremony in a festive atmosphere. The arrival at Lac Rose in Dakar, scheduled for Jan. 12, 2025, will celebrate an extraordinary human and sporting adventure.”