Hero MotoSports Team Rally has made an impressive start at the 47th edition of the Dakar Rally, the world’s most demanding motorsport event. Competing in the Rally GP class, Hero’s riders Ross Branch, Sebastian Bühler, and Nacho Cornejo showcased their mettle during the Prologue stage—a fast-paced 29-kilometer challenge.
Ross Branch emerged as the standout performer, securing second place with a time just 12 seconds behind leader Daniel Sanders of Red Bull KTM. Bühler and Cornejo finished in ninth and 20th positions, respectively, marking a solid team effort in the opening round.
The 2025 Dakar Rally features 580 competitors from 52 nations, including 134 riders across motorbike categories. The Prologue stage, held under challenging weather conditions with sandstorms and strong winds, tested the riders’ skill and adaptability. Despite these adversities, Hero MotoSports demonstrated strong preparation and determination.
The rally spans 12 stages and 7,700 kilometers across Saudi Arabia’s vast and varied desert landscape. This year, competitors will face new challenges, including the return of the grueling 48-hour Chrono stage, where riders camp without external support.
Stage Highlights and Strategy
• Prologue Results (Rally GP Class):
1. Daniel Sanders (Red Bull KTM): 10m 01s
2. Ross Branch (Hero MotoSports): +12s
3. Ricky Brabec (Monster Energy Honda): +18s
4. Sebastian Bühler (Hero MotoSports): +1m 00s
5. Nacho Cornejo (Hero MotoSports): +2m 39s
The Prologue positions will determine the starting order for Stage 1, a 500-kilometer loop south of Bisha. Riders will face a mix of sand, rocks, and technical navigation challenges. With Branch’s strong finish, he has the strategic advantage of choosing a late starting position, avoiding the pitfalls of navigating first.
Wolfgang Fischer, Team Manager of Hero MotoSports, praised the team’s performance, noting Branch’s strong start and the promising rhythm shown by Bühler and Cornejo. “We’re looking forward to delivering a thrilling performance this season,” he added.
Rider Reactions
Branch expressed confidence, commending his bike’s performance and the team’s efforts. Bühler enjoyed the high-speed terrain, while Cornejo vowed to recover after a minor error.
With Hero MotoSports riding high on their Prologue success, the team appears well-prepared for the intense battles ahead. As the rally progresses, their focus will remain on endurance, precision, and team strategy to conquer the challenges of Dakar 2025.
The post Hero MotoSports Kicks Off Dakar 2025 with Strong Prologue Performance first appeared on Motoroids.