Stéphane Peterhansel, a star and legend of the Dakar Rally, will not be at the starting line in Saudi Arabia in 2025. The Frenchman, who has spent many years competing in cars, is now returning to motorcycles in Africa – possibly for a participation in the Africa Eco Race.
The 59-year-old man’s career began in 1988 on motorcycles when the Dakar Rally was still held in Africa. He won six times on two wheels, always with Yamaha.
On social media, Peterhansel wrote: ‘For the first time in 36 years I will not be on the Dakar rally. All these years have brought me a lot of pleasure and emotions. But today I need a break, that does not mean that I will not come back in one way or another’.
The Africa Eco Race will take place in Africa from December 28 to January 12. While he has not confirmed his participation, Peterhansel has hinted that he might take part: ‘I will be in January with Yamaha on the tracks of Mauritania until the city of Dakar…’, he wrote.
Yamaha has an official presence in the Africa Eco Race through the Ténéré Yamaha Rally Team program. However, the official website currently lists only Alessandro Botturi and Pol Tarrés as its riders.