Stéphane Peterhansel, known as “Mr. Dakar,” has achieved an impressive 13 overall victories at the Dakar Rally – six on motorcycles and seven in cars. He made his debut in 1988 on two wheels, winning all his motorcycle titles with Yamaha. Later, he transitioned to cars and continued his remarkable success story.
For the 2025 Dakar Rally, Peterhansel has announced that, for the first time in 36 years, he will not participate. On social media, he wrote: “For the first time in 36 years, I will not take part in the Dakar Rally. All these years have brought me immense joy and emotions. But today, I need a break, which doesn’t mean I won’t return in one way or another.”
Interestingly, he hinted that he will be riding with Yamaha in January, traveling from the tracks of Mauritania to the city of Dakar. This suggests he might participate in the Africa Eco Race, scheduled from December 28, 2024, to January 12, 2025. Although his participation has not yet been officially confirmed, it would mark a return to his roots on two wheels in Africa.
Yamaha is represented at the Africa Eco Race by the Ténéré Yamaha Rally Team, featuring riders such as Alessandro Botturi and Pol Tarrés. A possible participation by Peterhansel would bring added experience and attention to the team.
Whether Peterhansel will indeed take part in the Africa Eco Race remains to be seen. However, his hints and close ties with Yamaha strongly suggest that we may soon see him back in action – this time on the legendary tracks of Africa.
