An Athlete Forged by Challenge
Rafic Eid is an accomplished and versatile athlete whose sporting journey spans martial arts, triathlon, mountain biking, and windsurfing—an activity he often describes as a source of peace and inspiration. Yet, it is on two wheels that Eid truly shines. Throughout the 2010s, he collected Lebanese motocross and enduro championship titles, establishing himself as one of the most respected riders in the region.
Early Passion, Interrupted but Never Lost
Eid’s love for motorcycles began at the age of 10. As a young Lebanese boy, he was deeply passionate about riding, but financial limitations forced him to put his dream on hold. Rather than abandoning it, he redirected his energy into education and work. During his university years and early professional life, Eid worked tirelessly with one clear goal: one day, he would be able to afford the motorcycling life he dreamed of.
That dream became reality at the age of 30, when he finally returned to riding and began entering competitions with determination and discipline.
A Shift Toward Enduro and Rally-Raid
Following the Covid-19 crisis, Eid focused his efforts on enduro racing and Bajas. It was during this period that a childhood dream resurfaced with renewed intensity: the Dakar Rally. True to his character, Eid approached this ambition with total commitment. He enrolled in navigation school with Pedro Bianchi, undertook mechanical training with Benjamin Melot, and left nothing to chance.
He also multiplied training sessions alongside his close friend Mohammed Balooshi and began competing seriously in the FIM Baja World Cup series, building the experience and results needed to qualify for the world’s toughest rally.
The Dakar Dream Realized
In 2025, Rafic Eid lined up at the start of the Dakar Rally as a rookie. Against all odds, he achieved what he had dreamed of since childhood: reaching the finish line. Eid completed the rally in 68th position after enduring extreme conditions, riding an average of ten hours a day, and overcoming a major accident along the way.
In doing so, he made history as the first Lebanese rider to finish the Dakar on a motorcycle. He also emerged as the top Middle Eastern rider in his very first participation in this legendary event.
Experience, Leadership, and Continued Success
Now 52 years old, Eid is not only an elite athlete but also a seasoned businessman. Formerly the CEO of Delifrance for the Middle East, he is currently involved in the management of the MX Academy in Dubai. His experience and leadership extend beyond business into the motorsport world.
In the same season as his Dakar achievement, Eid enjoyed another strong campaign in the FIM Baja World Cup, narrowly missing out on the overall title, which was won by his friend and long-time rival Mohammad Al Balooshi.
Rafic Is Ready for Dakar 26
Looking ahead to 2026, Rafic Eid is more motivated than ever. His preparation for the next Dakar is meticulous, focusing on every aspect of rally-raid racing: riding technique, navigation, mechanics, nutrition, and endurance. Eid’s 2025 Dakar experience has given him invaluable insights and confidence. With his eyes firmly set on Dakar 26, he is determined to push even further, chase new milestones, and continue representing Lebanon and the Middle East at the highest level of rally racing.
Ambition and Determination
For Rafic Eid, the Dakar is not just a race—it is the culmination of a lifetime of dedication, passion, and resilience. As he gears up for the 2026 edition, his story remains an inspiring testament to the power of dreams, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
