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Navigator who lost limb returns to Dakar after 11 months

Navigator who lost limb returns to Dakar after 11 months

Mathieu Baumel, a four-time Dakar Rally-winning navigator, has made a remarkable comeback to the event this year, just 11 months after a serious accident led to the amputation of his right leg. He sustained these injuries while on his way to Rally Monte Carlo at the start of 2025, where he was hit by a vehicle while assisting stranded motorists. Despite the challenges, Baumel was determined not to let the amputation end his career as a navigator. His return to the 2026 Dakar was met with applause as he spoke about the adversity he had overcome in the past year. Partnered with driver Guillaume de Mevius, Baumel shared his journey back to racing and expressed gratitude towards the medical staff, his team, and his friend Guillaume for their support. Despite the adjustments required due to his condition, Baumel is ready to take on the Dakar challenge once again, emphasizing that just being on the starting line is already a victory for him.

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