Mike Wiedemann, a 26-year-old KTM rider from Endingen, has been fully dedicated to conquering the Dakar Rally since 2022. His journey began with a remarkable debut in 2022, securing 48th place overall and an impressive 5th place in the junior category.
The following year, he took on the challenging “Original by Motul” category, where riders must manage without external assistance. Unfortunately, contaminated fuel forced him to withdraw prematurely.
A severe crash during preparation dashed his hopes for the 2024 Dakar. Suffering an Achilles tendon rupture and fractures in his right foot, he endured a six-month recovery period.
But Mike’s determination remained unshaken. After a successful recovery, he returned to racing, competing in promising events in Greece and Morocco. At the Morocco Rally, he achieved 12th place in the Rally2 category.
Looking ahead to the 2025 Dakar, Mike has again entered the “Original by Motul” category. His goal: to finish the race and compete for a spot in the top 5. His ultimate dream is to stand on the Original by Motul podium.
To fund his passion, Mike organizes roadbook training sessions in Morocco and southern Germany. For 2025, he is planning a special event: a roadbook training session for enthusiasts, followed by a wine tasting. Additionally, he provides rally service support for select events.
Speaking about his Dakar journey, Mike said, “The Dakar is my life right now. When I participated in my first rally in 2019, my life changed completely. Great people, big adventures. Since Dakar 2022, my mindset has completely shifted!”
With his tireless dedication and passion, Mike Wiedemann is an inspiring role model for motorsport and rally enthusiasts. His story proves that setbacks can serve as fuel for even greater challenges ahead.