La Méridionale, partner of the Africa Eco Race 2025
The Africa Eco Race 2025 takes place from 28 December 2024 to 12 January 2025. It is a not-to-be-missed event for rally-raid and motor racing enthusiasts.
This year, La Méridionale is proud to be the official transport partner, providing the ferry crossing to Morocco for the participants.
History of the Africa Eco Race
Origins and creation of the race
The Africa Eco Race was created in 2009 by internationally renowned driver Jean-Louis Schlesser in response to the cancellation of the Paris-Dakar in 2008. The aim was to recreate the spirit of adventure and competition of the Paris-Dakar, while emphasising sustainability and respect for the environment.
Evolution and changes
Since its creation, the Africa Eco Race has evolved to become a benchmark in ecological rally-raid. It features more environmentally-friendly routes, less polluting vehicles and an organisation that is mindful of its ecological impact. The aim is to promote sustainability while offering an exhilarating racing experience.
Categories of the Africa Eco Race
Vehicle categories
The Africa Eco Race offers several vehicle categories, each with its own specificities and regulations:
- Motorbikes: Bikers must navigate through varied terrain, testing their endurance and skill.
- Quads: These off-road vehicles offer a unique experience and are popular with participants.
- Cars: Racing cars must be adapted to the harsh conditions of the desert.
- Trucks: These desert giants must not only perform, but also transport essential equipment.
Participants and teams
Participants in the Africa Eco Race come from all over the world, each bringing their own expertise and passion for the race. The race is divided into 3 categories:
- The classic race: seasoned competitors battle it out on tracks that are both technical and difficult. The stages are of course timed.
- The raid: less competitive, this category offers a totally immersive experience without the pressure of a stopwatch.
- Historic: a nostalgic category for enthusiasts of vintage vehicles (from before 1980 or 1990). This is the race most closely associated with the Paris Dakar.
- The organising team also plays a crucial role in the smooth running of the event, providing security and logistical support.
The role of La Méridionale in the Africa Eco Race
La Méridionale plays an essential role as the official transport partner of the Africa Eco Race. Participants will embark on their crossing to Morocco in complete peace of mind. Thanks to the experience and expertise of La Méridionale's crews in the transport of rolling freight, they will have the guarantee that their vehicles will also travel in the safest possible conditions on board our boat to Morocco.
As the official carrier, La Méridionale will be featured on numerous communication media during the event.
Economic and tourist impact of the Africa Eco Race
The Africa Eco Race has a positive impact on the environment thanks to its sustainable and respectful practices. In addition, the event generates significant economic and tourist benefits for the regions it crosses. By supporting AMADE, a Monegasque humanitarian association, the Africa Eco Race also contributes to local initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to communities, notably with the Energie de l'espoir projects, the use of solar energy and 100% electric motorbikes. It also favours the purchase of local products throughout the race in order to contribute to the local economy while reducing the carbon footprint.
The Africa Eco Race 2025 promises to be a memorable adventure, and La Méridionale is proud to play a key role in its success. Whether you are a participant or a spectator, book your ferry to Morocco with La Méridionale now.
