It’s officially go time! The 2025 Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship kicked off this past weekend in Fafe, Portugal, with incredible action and jaw-dropping performances setting the tone for an epic season ahead. And now – the countdown begins. In just under four months, the championship lands in the UK for one of the most anticipated events on the calendar: the Forsiteservices EnduroGP of Wales in Rhayader, Mid Wales, from August 1–3.
The opening round had it all: fierce rivalries, breakout victories, and unforgettable moments that have already sent shockwaves through the paddock. France’s Zach Pichon (TM MOTO Boano Factory Enduro Team) came out swinging with his first-ever overall EnduroGP win, but it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Josep Garcia who lit up day one with a dominant victory – proving that his raw speed and fearless style make him a must-watch rider in Wales.
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Joining the early title fight is GASGAS Factory Racing’s Andrea Verona, whose back-to-back podiums in Portugal show he’s in it for the long haul. Expect fireworks when these three go bar-to-bar again on Welsh soil.
British fans were dealt a blow as Brad Freeman confirmed he’ll miss the rest of the season due to injury, but there’s hope on the horizon: Steve Holcombe, despite a tough DNF in Fafe, is already focused on bouncing back – and nothing will fuel his fire more than racing in front of a home crowd in Rhayader this August.
It was anything but only setbacks for the Brits. In the Women’s class, Nieve Holmes (Sherco) came out strong with double podium finishes, and Elizabeth Tett (TM MOTO) delivered a flawless performance in the Junior Women’s category, taking the top step twice. Both will arrive in Wales fired up and ready to give the home crowd something to cheer for.
The Expotrade FIM Women’s Enduro World Championship now pauses until Rhayader – putting all eyes on Mid Wales as the next battleground in the Women’s title chase. Expect drama. Expect history. Expect the unexpected.
Rising stars also stole the spotlight in Portugal, with Kyron Bacon (MGR Kawasaki) dominating the Junior category and Alberto Elgari (TM MOTO Boano Factory Enduro Team) surging to the top in the Youth class. With this much emerging talent, the EnduroGP of Wales is your chance to witness the future of the sport now.
Next stop: Spain. But all roads lead to Rhayader this summer, where riders will face some of the most iconic terrain on the calendar – and fans will experience three days of non-stop, world-class racing action right in the heart of Wales.
Adam Rees – Event Director, EnduroGP of Wales: “So that’s the EnduroGP season underway! What a round it was in Fafe, the weather made it very interesting but it was a brilliant weekend with 19 Brits taking part. A huge well done to Nieve Holmes for a fantastic double podium, and to Libby [Elizabeth] Tett going 1-1 in the new Junior Women category! We’re wishing Steve Holcombe all the best and fingers crossed we will see him racing again soon so he’s 100% when he arrives in Rhayader in August. Also, best wishes to Brad Freeman with his surgery after a tough day one. Don’t forget, tickets for the Forsiteservices EnduroGP of Wales are out and there is a price change coming up soon so make sure to secure your spot as soon as possible. We can’t wait to see you all in August!”
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Words and Images by Future7Media
