Mission Accomplished. The Fantic Factory Rally Team celebrates on the podium of the 2025 Dakar with Sandra Gomez, winner of the women’s category, and Jeremy Miroir and Tommaso Montanari, who secured 27th and 35th positions in the overall standings, respectively.
Completing the Dakar is always a team victory, and Fantic, the only Italian manufacturer participating in the most prestigious rally raid, has every reason to be satisfied. Alongside the three Fantic Factory Rally riders—Jeremy Miroir, Tommaso Montanari, and Sandra Gomez—the supported riders also stepped onto the podium. It was an unforgettable moment after nearly 8,000 kilometres of adventure and team spirit, with Tomas de Gavardo, Maxime Pouponnot, and Rafic Eid emotional and proud as they received their “finisher” medals.
Matilde Tomagnini, Fantic Rally Raid Project Manager:
“We are proud and happy to have brought all our riders to the finish line. Congratulations to Jeremy and Tommaso, and a special shoutout to Sandra, who stood out for her strength and determination. It was also wonderful to share this extraordinary adventure with our ‘satellite riders’. In the end, we were all moved. I would say mission accomplished because the bike proved reliable, and all our riders made it to the end, except Mohammed Al Balooshi, who had to withdraw after a fall. I want to thank everyone on the team for their tireless efforts, as well as our Head of Racing, Mariano Roman, and the entire company for their trust and support back home.”
Jeremy Miroir, 27th overall (P17 Rally 2):
“This medal means so much to me. Two Dakar Rallies with Fantic and two finisher medals—I am thrilled. The first week was tough but went well for us, while a fall in the second week affected my race. Still, the overall result is super positive, and I can’t wait to come back.”
Tommaso Montanari, 35th overall (P25 Rally 2):
“This was my third Dakar, and I was determined to finish, so this medal is like gold to me. It makes all the sacrifices and pain worthwhile. The crash in Morocco didn’t help, but in the end, what matters is being here and fighting. I want to thank everyone at Fantic, our leaders Matilde Tomagnini and Franco Picco, and the entire team. I am proud to represent an Italian team at Dakar.”
Sandra Gomez, only woman in the bike category, and 43rd overall (P33 Rally 2):
“I am so happy to have finished with a medal and the ‘Women’s class winner’ award. I hope my example inspires many women to take part. The Dakar is a beautiful adventure and a dream within reach.”
Tomas de Gavardo, 41st overall (P31 Rally 2):
“I was overcome with emotion when I saw the finish line. I thought of my dad and grandfather watching over me. I wish I could have hugged them at the finish because I am here thanks to them. My family has lived the real Dakar. My dad once followed the entire Dakar in Africa by taxi—imagine the passion! This medal is for them, and I want to thank Fantic for all their support.”
Maxime Pouponnot, 62nd overall (P52 Rally 2):
“Reaching the finish line in my first Dakar is an enormous achievement. I am so happy and want to thank my dad and brother, who shared this adventure with me at the bivouac, and the Fantic team.”
Rafic Eid, 68th overall (P58 Rally 2):
“I am so happy to have made it to the finish line. The Dakar is unique, and you have to experience it to understand it. I was moved on the podium. It was tough, but only by stepping out of your comfort zone, you can test your limits. I came here to enjoy myself, and that is exactly what I did.”
Maxime Pouponnot and Rafic Eid not only earned their finisher medals but also won the “Dakar Spirit” award, recognizing riders who distinguished themselves through extraordinary efforts. Maxime was honoured for completing a stage late at night, while Rafic was celebrated for his resilience in overcoming a challenging moment.
