Just under a year after a tragic accident that could have ended his career, Mathieu Baumel makes his grand return to the Dakar. Acclaimed by his peers, this seasoned co-driver proves that determination can overcome the toughest obstacles. Dakar 2026 is already shaping up to be a significant chapter in his resilience.
A Disrupted Destiny
Almost a year ago, Mathieu Baumel’s life changed dramatically. A four-time winner of the Dakar alongside Nasser Al-Attiyah, this experienced co-driver was involved in a serious road accident in January 2025. While trying to help stranded motorists, he was struck by a vehicle, resulting in severe injuries. The consequence? An amputation of his right leg. However, his left leg, although seriously affected, was saved after three surgeries. A significant challenge, but not an end in itself for this competitor at heart.
A Will of Steel
Shortly after this traumatic incident, Mathieu Baumel clearly expressed his desire to continue his career as a navigator. His passion for rallying and fighting spirit pushed him to fight to regain his performance level. It was therefore only natural that he would be at the start of Dakar 2026 in Yanbu, just eleven months after his accident. At the press conference preceding the prologue, he was welcomed with loud applause, a testament to the admiration and respect of his colleagues.
“First of all, you can’t imagine how happy I am to be here with you, the Dakar family,” he stated, moved. “The last eleven months have obviously been very difficult, especially at the beginning, when you don’t know if you’re going to die, because that was indeed the situation. We also didn’t know if one leg or both legs would need to be amputated. In the end, I kept one leg that is not in perfect condition, but it’s not bad. On the right side, you can see that I now have a nice prosthesis.”
A Rocky Road
Baumel’s rehabilitation was not a smooth journey. Every day represented a new challenge, but his ultimate goal was clear: to participate in Dakar 2026. “In the end, it was made possible thanks to everyone: the medical staff, my friend Guillaume [de Mévius], who was there from the very beginning, and of course Sven [Quandt]. That’s why I’m here today.” This unwavering support was essential in allowing him to return to the forefront.
Mathieu also emphasized that he was not quite in the same condition as before his accident, but with the help of his X-Raid team, they had managed to prepare a fast and comfortable car for this Dakar. A remarkable technical and human achievement.
A Close-Knit Team
Guillaume de Mévius, who shares the cockpit of the Mini X-Raid with Baumel, does not hide his pride in seeing his friend back. “I am very proud and very happy to be here,” he stated at the press conference. “He did everything to be here, and I am extremely proud of that. I am also very proud to be his driver and to be by his side in front of you.” Together, they form a strong duo determined to achieve a great performance this year.
However, the preparation required some adjustments. “Guillaume and I also did a good job preparing for situations where we might have problems with a flat tire, or if we need to get in and out of the car,” Baumel explained. “Of course, it’s not like before, but we know what we need to do and how to do it. So we are ready to start this Dakar.”
A Victory Before the Start
Despite the trials he has faced, Mathieu Baumel already feels immense satisfaction in being present at the starting line. “For me, it’s already a first victory to be here with you and to be able to start. After that, we will see what we can do.” This statement perfectly summarizes the spirit of the Dakar: a race where every participant faces extreme challenges, but where passion and willpower allow them to go beyond their limits.
This return is much more than just a sporting event; it embodies human resilience in the face of adversity. Through his journey, Mathieu Baumel reminds everyone that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with determination and support.
