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. He finishes ahead of Martin Roeterdink,
second at 33 h 45 min 15 s, and Mike Panhuijzen, third at 40 h 50 min 43 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.
For many, this final run along the ocean has a special flavor. It is no longer a race against time, but
a moment to look around, to think back to the dunes of Mauritania, the long tracks, the mistakes,
the victories, the short nights, and the thousands of kilometers covered.
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.
Stage 11 – winners
Motorbikes: Jean-Loup Lepan
Cars: Magdalena Zając
SSV: Enrico Gaspari
Trucks: Gerrit Zuurmond
