Yamaha riders present at the starting line of the Africa Eco Race 2026
21 January 2026
We will once again be present at the start of the Africa Eco Race 2026. A new edition marked by several changes, including a departure from Tangier.
The start changes, but the route remains tough: 6,000 km, 12 stages, and 1 rest day.
This year, we will have no fewer than 15 riders with us for this edition. Among them, we will find our two official riders:
- Alessandro Botturi
Gautier Paulin
15 riders for the Africa Eco Race 2026 with the Ténéré Spirit Experience
This is the first rally-raid that Gautier Paulin will compete in with us as an official rider. His first motorcycle rally-raid was the Carta Rallye, also with us, an excellent way to begin his preparation for this challenge.
Alongside our two official riders, we will also find:
- Kevin Gallas – No. 171, winner of the Addax Rally 2025
- Antonio Maio – No. 109, Dakar veteran
- Nicolas Charlier – No. 124
- Mike Wiedemann
As well as:
- Arrivé Christophe – No. 70
- Duprey Yann – No. 71
- Gavard Bertrand – No. 106
- Gazon Isabelle – No. 169
- Kuffer Gilles – No. 174
- Raoux Alexis – No. 69
- Urakov Timur – No. 111
Laurent Cochet at the Africa Eco Race 2026
Also Laurent Cochet (No. 93), back with us for this edition. And no, Laurent isn’t just doing two editions in a row for pleasure… What he’s looking for are new things and challenges.
After discovering the joy of the Ténéré 700 WR GYTR in the desert, he’s embarking on a new challenge: to do the Africa Eco Race with the first turbo Ténéré 700.
The big question: will he make it to Dakar?
In any case, it’s a mission we’re ready to take on with him!
Finally, this year, we have very few riders in the Raid category, except for Morgan, also known as Captain Morgan (No. 525). A passionate adventurer who loves motorcycle travel and discovering the world, he is seeking a challenge.
He will participate in the Africa Eco Race in the Raid category, an accessible category for discovering rally-raid, with the choice between roadbook or GPX navigation.
We are delighted to accompany him on this first adventure.
Africa Eco Race 2026 Program
- January 23–24 – Tangier : Technical and administrative checks. Vehicles are ready, teams are focused.
- January 25 – Official Start : The rally starts from Tangier. The journey to Dakar begins.
- Morocco : Fast tracks, rocky terrain, and the first real sand sections. The race reveals its true character.
- January 31 – Dakhla: Short break: rest, repairs, and preparation for the most difficult part of the rally.
- Mauritania: Immense dunes, long specials, and two demanding loops that test navigation, endurance, and mental strength.
- Senegal : The ultimate effort. Faster tracks, but no room for error. Dakar is now on the horizon.
- February 7 – Lac Rose, Dakar : The finish line. The moment every competitor fights for.
What is the Ténéré Spirit Experience structure?
Between the Yamaha Ténéré Rally Team and the Ténéré Spirit Experience, it is sometimes difficult to fully understand our organization. Here are some explanations.
The Yamaha Ténéré Rally Team is the official Yamaha team, with two official riders: Gautier Paulin and Alessandro Botturi.
To make rally-raid accessible, we offer assistance packages for various rally-raids under the Ténéré Spirit Experience entity.
Anyone can join us and benefit from professional assistance, just like a pro rider.
To go even further in accessibility, it is also possible to participate in the Raid category or the Racing category.
The countdown has begun!
The countdown is on before the start of the Africa Eco Race.
To follow our adventures, join us on our social media!
