he legendary Roof of Africa returned to the mountains of Lesotho from 24–26 September 2026, bringing together around 530 riders for three days of hard enduro, spectacular scenery and plenty of good times along the way.
The action got underway on Thursday with the time trials, before riders headed into the mountains for two demanding days of riding. With Gold, Silver, Bronze and Iron classes on offer, there was a challenge for every level of competitor – and the Iron class attracted the biggest field of the event.
With the start and finish based at Music Box, there was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the event as riders, teams and spectators came together for one of the highlights of the off-road calendar.
From Sunshine to Thunderstorms
Conditions started out beautifully, with sunny, hot weather for Thursday's time trials.
Saturday morning brought more heat, but the mountains had other plans for the afternoon. Thunderstorms rolled in and dramatically changed conditions, with some riders and spectators reportedly stuck out on the mountain for four to five hours before they could make their way back.
Just another reminder that at the Roof, the mountain always gets a say!
The Motul Crew Gets to Work
While the riders were putting in the kilometres, the Motul crew had a serious workout of their own.
The Motul Bike Wash Service was on hand throughout the event, helping riders get their machines cleaned up and ready to go again – and the numbers from the weekend are pretty impressive:
860 motorcycles washed.
40,000 litres of water used.
140 litres of Motul Bio Wash.
830 chains lubed.
That's a lot of very dirty motorcycles – and a lot of clean ones heading back out again!
The service added another practical element of support for competitors during an already demanding few days in the mountains.
That's the Roof!
From hot sunshine and spectacular mountain riding to afternoon thunderstorms, hundreds of dirty motorcycles and a few well-earned Malutis at the end of the day, the 2026 Roof of Africa certainly delivered an adventure.
Three days, around 530 riders and some of the toughest terrain Lesotho has to offer – there really is nothing quite like the Roof.
The 2026 Roof Winners
After three demanding days in the Lesotho mountains, Teodor Kabakchiev took the overall Gold Class victory, narrowly ahead of Manuel Lettenbichler and Wade Young.
The other class victories went to Grant Burton Durham in Silver, Paulus van Niekerk Jnr in Bronze and Luke Lawlor in Iron.
There were also some impressive performances from the women competing across the field, with Kirsten Landman finishing as the leading woman in Silver, Samantha Ferreira in Bronze and Terri Hodge in Iron.
Congratulations to all the riders who took on the Roof – simply getting through those mountains is an achievement worth celebrating!