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Amputated hero Mathieu Baumel triumphantly returns to Dakar Rally just 11 months after tragedy

Harry Stone by Harry Stone
January 3, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Amputated hero Mathieu Baumel triumphantly returns to Dakar Rally just 11 months after tragedy

Title: Triumph Against All Odds: Mathieu Baumel Conquers Dakar 11 Months After Life-Altering Accident

In an electrifying comeback story that has captivated motorsport fans worldwide, four-time Dakar Rally-winning navigator Mathieu Baumel has returned to the iconic race just 11 months after an accident that changed his life forever. The Frenchman, who faced unimaginable challenges following the amputation of his right leg, has defied the odds to stand proudly at the starting line of the 2026 Dakar Rally.

Baumel’s harrowing journey began in early 2025 when he selflessly stopped to assist stranded motorists en route to Rally Monte Carlo. Tragically, his act of kindness turned catastrophic as a vehicle struck him, resulting in severe injuries that necessitated the amputation of his right leg. While he managed to retain his left leg, it was no small feat, requiring three complex surgeries to restore functionality.

Undeterred by the life-altering event, Baumel declared his unwavering commitment to his career as a navigator. “I have no intention of ending my career,” he asserted in the wake of his accident. And true to his word, he arrived in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, amidst thunderous applause at a press conference ahead of Saturday’s prologue. Reflecting on his tumultuous year, he shared, “First of all, you can’t imagine how happy I am to be here with you, the Dakar family. The past 11 months have obviously been very difficult, especially at the beginning, when you don’t know if you are going to die – because that was the situation.”

Baumel’s resilience shone as he recounted the uncertainty of his situation: “We also didn’t know whether one leg or both legs would need to be amputated. In the end, I’ve kept one leg that isn’t in perfect shape, but it’s not bad. On the right side, you can see that I now have a nice prosthesis.” His determination to participate in the 2026 Dakar alongside his friend and driver Guillaume de Mevius became a beacon of hope during his rehabilitation.

The road to recovery was fraught with obstacles, but Baumel credited his success to a dedicated support network. “It was made possible thanks to everyone: the medical staff, my friend Guillaume, who was there from the very beginning, and of course Sven [Quandt, X-raid CEO]. That’s why I’m here today.” He acknowledged that while he may not be in the same condition as before, he and his team had worked diligently to prepare a competitive car for the race.

De Mevius expressed his pride in partnering with Baumel for the second consecutive year. “I’m very proud and very happy to be here,” he proclaimed during the press conference. “He did everything to be here, and I’m extremely proud of that.” With an unwavering spirit, the duo is ready to push their limits, with De Mevius stating, “We’re going to push just as hard and try to beat everyone.”

However, adjustments will be necessary due to Baumel’s condition. “Guillaume and I also did a good job preparing for situations where we might have trouble with a puncture, or if we have to get in and out of the car,” he explained, revealing the strategic preparations made for the race. “Of course, it’s not the same as before, but we know what we need to do and how to do it. So we’re ready to start this Dakar.”

Despite the arduous journey that brought him back to the Dakar, Baumel finds pride in simply being on the start line. “For me, it’s already a first victory to be here with you and to be able to start. After that, we’ll see what we can do.”

Baumel’s illustrious career includes a successful partnership with Qatari champion Nasser Al-Attiyah, guiding him to four of his five Dakar victories. After parting ways with Al-Attiyah following the 2024 rally, Baumel briefly navigated for Guerlain Chicherit before joining forces with De Mevius, forging a new path ahead.

As the Dakar Rally kicks off, all eyes will be on Mathieu Baumel, not just as a competitor but as a symbol of resilience and determination. This is the story of a man who refused to let adversity dictate his fate, and his journey is far from over. Buckle up – the Dakar has never been more thrilling!

Tags: 2025-classic-motorsports-editors-choice-award2025-dakar-rallyGuillaume de MeviusMathieu BaumelNasser Al-Attiyah
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