‘Mother of Hard Enduro’ Roof of Africa set to be Hard Enduro World Championship (HEWC) final round this November – entries open June 16.

Standing as potentially the decisive final round of the 2025 Hard Enduro World Championship season, the Roof of Africa Hard Enduro and will take place from 20 to 22 November 2025 in the southern African country of Lesotho.

In keeping with the Roof of Africa’s new status and spotlight on the world stage, plus its legendary position in the sport, this year’s Roof promises to be planned and delivered by an elite team of event organisers. They say the plan is 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 says that the new management team has built on last years’ 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 involved. “Our focus is on creating an elevated experience for every Roof competitor, support crew, partners, and spectators alike,” he stated.

Key team members behind the event

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.

World class entry expected

A strong line-up is of course expected 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, Alfredo Gomez and multi-time winner Graham Jarvis all scheduled to compete in the Gold class, with more international and local riders to be confirmed nearer the time.

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.

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.

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.”