Maseru, Lesotho – Cementing its position as one of the world’s toughest off-road motorcycle events, the ‘Mother of Hard Enduro’ has been added to the Hard Enduro World Championship (HEWC) calendar for the first time. Not only that, but the Roof will potentially be the decisive final round of the season and will take place from 20 to 22 November 2025, with Registration and Documentation taking place on 19 November. This will see Lesotho placed firmly on the world Hard Enduro map, in a welcome boost to tourism in the country and across southern Africa.
In keeping with the Roof of Africa’s new status and the fact that this legendary event will now be in the spotlight like never before, this year’s event will be planned and delivered by an elite team of event organisers. They plan to channel all their route planning and racing experience to deliver an event that’s worthy of the HEWC, and the heritage and legacy of the Roof itself.
Event Director Ross Whitehead shared that the new management team has built on last year’s experience to develop a strengthened operational plan. He expressed full confidence that, with months of work already done, the 2025 edition of the Roof will be a standout experience for all its stakeholders. “Our focus is on creating an elevated experience for every Roof competitor, support crew, partner, and spectator alike,” he stated.
Key members of the 2025 Roof team include Route Director (and veteran of 30 previous Roof of Africa events) Graham MacLachlan, as well as Tausten Gibbs and Mitchell Gallagher (experienced Romaniacs route managers), LORA member and Chief Mashal Likotsi Koo Lemeke, and HEWC Track manager Mike Skinner.
With dedicated route managers for the Roof classes (Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Iron), an increased level of focus and attention to detail will elevate the Roof experience for everyone involved. In particular, Whitehead is keen to highlight the appointment of motorsports industry figure Sakkie Maartens as Start and Finish Manager, thereby ensuring professionalism in every aspect of the event.
A strong line-up is anticipated for this year’s Roof, with title contenders Billy Bolt, multi-Roof winner Wade Young, four-times FIM HEWC world champion Manuel Lettenbichler, Mario Roman, Mitch Brightmore, Teodor Kabakchiev, and Alfredo Gomez all scheduled to compete in the Gold class, with more international and local riders to be confirmed nearer the time. The chance to see the 2025 champion crowned against the backdrop of Lesotho’s iconic Maluti Mountains is sure to attract the attention of motorsport fans worldwide.
Phakisa Mokhesi, Secretary of the Lesotho Off Road Association (LORA) and Race Secretary for this year’s Roof of Africa, has expressed excitement about the event’s growing international profile and its local impact.
“We always look forward to hosting the Roof of Africa here in Lesotho,” Mokhesi said. “The fact that this event will now have a global stage will help us to uplift local communities and create a positive showcase for Lesotho’s landscapes, people, and unique Basotho culture.”
Southern Africa’s international profile will be further raised by the support of confirmed 2025 Roof sponsors, including leading brands such as Red Bull, FNB, Avani Hotel and Casino, The Reporter, Plews Tyres, Econet, LNDC, Maluti, Naledi Outdoor Advertising, XCO, and SOX Footwear.
Entries for the 2025 ‘Mother of Hard Enduro’ will open on 16 June 2025. For updates on this year’s event, visit The Roof of Africa website and join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.
In closing, the Chairman of LORA, Mopeli Ntabe adds, “With renewed focus, professional execution, and a deep respect for the heritage of the Roof, we are confident that the upcoming edition will not only meet expectations, but exceed them. We look forward to welcoming you back to an experience worthy of this great tradition.”
