Roof of Africa to crown 2025 Hard Enduro World Championship
TEBOHO KHATEBE MOLEFI
MASERU – The legendary Roof of Africa Rally, long revered as the “Mother of Hard Enduro,” is set to make history in 2025 as the grand finale of the Hard Enduro World Championship (HEWC).
Scheduled for November 20 to 22, with registration and documentation on November 19, this year’s event will not only test the world’s toughest riders but also crown the HEWC champion amidst the breath-taking landscapes of Lesotho.
For the first time, the Roof of Africa has been officially integrated into the HEWC calendar, marking a pivotal moment for off-road motorsport. This inclusion elevates Lesotho’s status as a premier adventure tourism destination, drawing global attention to its rugged terrain, rich culture, and the unmatched challenge the race presents.
Recognizing the event’s heightened significance, organizers have assembled an elite team of industry veterans to ensure the 2015 edition surpasses all expectations.
Under the leadership of Event Director Ross Whitehead, the 2025 Roof of Africa will benefit from months of meticulous planning. Whitehead emphasized the team’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled experience for riders, support crews, sponsors and spectators.
Key members of the organizing team include Graham MacLachlan, Route Director and 30-time Roof veteran, Tausten Gibbs and Mitchell Gallagher, Romaniacs route experts, Likotsi Lemeke, Chief Marshal from the Lesotho Off-Road Association (LORA), Mike Skinner, HEWC Track Manager and Sakkie Maartens, Start and Finish Manager and a motorsports professional.
With dedicated route managers for each class, Gold, Silver, Bronze and Iron, the event promises precision, safety and excitement at every turn.
The 2025 Roof of Africa is expected to feature the most competitive field in history, with reigning champions and rising stars battling for supremacy. Confirmed riders include Billy Bolt, current HEWC leader, Wade Young, multiple-times Roof winner, Manuel Lettenbichler, 4x FIM HEWC World Champion, Mario Roman, Mitch Brightmore, Teodor Kabakchiev and Alfredo Gomez, elite Gold Class contenders.
The possibility of the HEWC title being decided in Lesotho adds an electrifying dimension, ensuring global viewership and media coverage.
LORA secretary, Phakisa Mokhesi, has highlighted event’s dual role in boosting tourism and empowering local communities.
“The Roof of Africa has always been a source of pride for Lesotho,” Mokhesi said.
“Now, with a global platform, we can showcase our landscapes, culture, and hospitality while creating opportunities for local businesses.”
Chairman, Mopeli Ntabe, on the other hand encapsulated the spirit of the upcoming event saying “With a renewed vision, professional execution, and deep respect for the Roof’s legacy, we are confident the 2025 edition will not only meet but exceed expectations. We invite the world to witness the pinnacle of Hard Enduro in the heart of Africa.”
The 2025 edition has secured backing from top-tier sponsors, including energy drink partner Red Bull, FNB, Avani Hotel and Casino, Plews Tyres, Econet, Lesotho National Development Corporation, Maluti, Naledi Outdoor Advertising, XCO and SOX Footwear.
Their involvement underscores the event’s growing prestige and commercial appeal.
Entries opened on June 16.
These are welcome development, a move the cutting attacks over design, preparation and management of the renowned the 2024 Roof of Africa Rally edition that attracted international criticism as reported by Public Eye at the end of the race.
Following the race Motorsports South Africa (MSA) called for an official enquiry into various issues that arose during the 2024 Roof, held in Maseru from November 28 to 30.
The enquiry was scheduled to commence in the latter part of January 2025.
South African hard endure star, Wade Young, triumphed at the race, claiming his ninth career victory to equal the legendary Alfie Cox’s all-time record. Achieved after three grueling days of competition in the maloti, the feat reinforced Young’s status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
However, MSA expressed frustration and called for a probe into what they described as “various issues that arose during the Roof of Africa 2024.”
An MSA statement at the time indicated that they are dedicated to ensuring a prompt, equitable and transparent resolution to these matters.
Calling on all parties with relevant information or who were directly affected to submit their statements or documents for consideration to the group.
Contacted for clarity on the matter MSA only confirmed to Public Eye that a formal enquiry would be initiated with regard to the event.
