The highly anticipated 50th edition of the Enduro du Touquet is scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025, promising another thrilling chapter in the annals of this legendary sand motocross race.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Touquet beaches, this year’s race is expected to draw considerable attention as it celebrates half a century of fierce competition. Leading the pack is British rider Todd Kellett, who not only clinched victory last year but also hopes to seize his third consecutive win after dominating the event in both 2023 and 2024. With the race winner traditionally hailed as the champion of grit and determination, Kellett hopes to join the elite ranks of riders who have achieved this remarkable feat.
Alongside Kellett, the competition includes formidable rivals such as Belgium’s Cyril Genot, who is eyeing his first title after finishing second last year, and Dutch riders Lars Van Berkel and Jérémy Knuiman, who took third and fifth respectively in 2024. The legendary Milko Potisek, who has previously won the event three times, will also be making his return, stirred by the promise of rivalry with Kellett.
Fans of the Enduro du Touquet can expect to experience not just fierce competition but also the impact of the event's storied history. A documentary titled "Les géants du sable" presented by journalist Jean-Luc Douchet will air on France 3 on February 8. Douchet has personal ties to the race, having experienced it as both a journalist and participant, reflecting on its evolution over the decades. He notes, "The Enduropale has always been part of the region’s heritage, akin to the Dunkirk carnival or Lille's braderie; it has transformed from its wild roots to become highly organized and professional," highlighting the balance between preserving its unique spirit and adapting to modern standards of safety and environmental consciousness.
This year marks not just the anniversary but also introduces changes to the course layout. The track has been extended by two kilometers, totaling 15 kilometers, making it even more challenging for the riders. The event kicks off with riders traversing through the city of Touquet, creating excitement among local supporters before heading onto the sandy circuit.
Viewers eager to follow the competition can catch the entire event live on France 3 and La Chaîne L’Équipe, with coverage starting as early as 12:55 PM local time. The race itself is set to run from 2 PM to 5 PM, providing ample opportunity for fans both on-site and at home to appreciate the skills of these talented competitors.
The historical significance of the Enduro du Touquet cannot be overstated. Over its 50-year run, it has transitioned and adapted, becoming synonymous with not just adrenaline but also camaraderie and local pride. Douchet recalls poignant moments from the race’s history, including commemorations of riders like Timoteï Potisek, who, tragically, lost his life at just 26 years of age. His father's emotional response to his son's achievements serves to underline the deep connections forged in this sport.
"Capturing these human stories was fundamental to the magazine," Douchet explained. Such narratives, intertwined with the adrenaline of the competition, add depth to the race's legacy, making it more than just another motocross event.
With riders preparing for the challenges of the sandy track, the atmosphere among competitors and fans alike is electrifying. Many eyes are on Kellett, who seeks to cement his legacy or other challengers, such as Genot and Potisek, ready to seize their moment of glory.
For those embracing this year’s experience, the Enduro du Touquet promises more than just races—it’s about tradition, competition, and the spirit of community united under the banner of motocross. This is not just another race; it's the very heart of the racing culture coming alive once again.
Don’t miss out on the live updates throughout the race, as positioning of competitors will be tracked and shared via special coverage for the event duration. The same can be said for the exhilarating atmosphere on the beach and what has become one of the world’s most significant sand races. So mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on your favorites as they battle for the title!