COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE : 6 FÉVRIER

The final competitive stage of the Africa Eco Race 2026 marked the transition toward the conclusion of an exceptional adventure. Covering 475 kilometers, including 103 kilometers of timed special stage, this day of transition between Mauritania and Senegal offered a striking contrast.

Gradually, the vast dune fields gave way to savannah landscapes. The light, the vegetation, even the atmosphere of the rally changed kilometer after kilometer. In the Senegalese special stage, rich in emotion, competitors were greeted by large numbers of spectators gathered near villages, applauding the passing caravan and reminding everyone that the Africa Eco Race is also a deeply human adventure.

A stage both memorable and symbolic, which froze the standings and sealed the results of this 17th edition.

Motorbikes: Lepan wins the stage, Gallas crowned after a thrilling finale

Jean-Loup Lepan won the special in 1 h 12 min 53 s, securing his second stage victory of this edition. He finished ahead of Jacopo Cerutti by 1 min 29 s and Noa Sainct by 3 min 33 s.

In the final overall standings, victory goes to Kevin Gallas (Yamaha), who prevails after days of intense battle with only 41 seconds’ advantage over Gautier Paulin (Yamaha). Such a narrow margin after nearly two weeks of racing illustrates the intensity and consistency required to triumph.

Jean-Loup Lepan (KTM) completes the final podium, 16 min 08 s behind, rewarded for an edition marked by determination and several top-level performances.

Cars: Gérard rewarded for a solid and controlled rally

Today’s special stage was won by Magdalena Zając in 1 h 13 min 35 s, ahead of Andrea Schiumarini by 28 seconds and Enrico Gaspari by 1 min 03 s.

In the final overall classification, David Gérard (MD Optimus) claims victory after a rally driven with consistency and control. He finishes 37 min 53 s ahead of Christian Fremont (Mini Cooper X-Raid), while Tomas Ourednicek (Toyota Hilux) completes the podium at 1 h 31 min 13 s.

In a particularly competitive category, consistency and race management proved decisive.

SSV: Van Den Broek confirms his dominance

Enrico Gaspari won the stage in 1 h 14 min 38 s, ahead of Sander Derikx by 56 seconds and Calin Camarasan by 1 min 45 s.

In the final overall standings, Martijn Van Den Broek (Can-Am Maverick 1000R) confirmed his superiority, winning the category after steadily extending his lead day after day. He finishes 47 min 44 s ahead of Martin Benko, while Sander Derikx takes third place at 1 h 26 min 15 s. A victory built on consistency, navigation skills, and mastery in the most demanding terrain.

Trucks: Zuurmond, a victory built over time

Gerrit Zuurmond also won today’s special stage in 1 h 33 min 19 s, ahead of Martin Roeterdink by 10 min 11 s and Mike Panhuijzen by 13 min 30 s.

In the final overall standings, Gerrit Zuurmond takes a logical victory after dominating the category throughout the rally, with a total time of 61 h 18 min 21 s. A performance that rewards the consistency and reliability of a crew that managed to avoid the many pitfalls of a particularly demanding edition.

Heading for Lac Rose

With this eleventh stage, the clock has stopped for good. The standings are now final, the winners known, and the sporting tension is gradually giving way to another emotion, softer and deeper: the feeling of arrival.

Tomorrow in Dakar, competitors will take the start of the traditional non-timed special stage, run “for prestige.” As every year, the mass start on the beach, facing the Atlantic Ocean, will mark one of the most powerful moments of the event, before heading to the shores of Lac Rose for the podium ceremony and prize-giving.

Because the Africa Eco Race is never just about a ranking. It is a crossing, an adventure, a human story written day after day in sand and dust.

And when the vehicles appear tomorrow at Lac Rose, it will not only be winners who cross the line, but men and women who have, once again, accomplished something extraordinary.

PRESS CONTACT

+33 6 50 70 60 50

presse@africarace.com

About the AFRICA ECO RACE

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.

For more information, visit www.africarace.com.

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