Hero MotoSports Rally Team Navigates Mixed Fortunes at Rally Raid Portugal 2025

​Hero MotoSports Team Rally, representing the world’s largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, faced a day of highs and lows in Stage 2 of the Ultimate BP Rally Raid Portugal, part of the 2025 FIM World Rally-Raid Championship W2RC. With fierce competition and challenging terrain, the team showed resilience amid setbacks.

The second stage covered a grueling 655 km route, including 429 km of timed special, moving from Grândola in Portugal to Badajoz in Spain. This stage marked a transition from the Alentejo region into Extremadura, where the rally will stay for two nights. The demanding conditions tested the riders’ skill and machines alike.

Strong Performance by Nacho Cornejo

Nacho Cornejo showcased consistency and speed by finishing 11th in Stage 2, securing a solid 10th place overall in the premier Rally GP class. The Chilean rider improved his pace through the day with effective setup changes on his bike, adapting well to slippery conditions. His determination to push forward stage by stage remains firm as he looks toward Morocco and the Dakar Rally 2026.

Setbacks for Tobias Ebster and Ross Branch

Tobias Ebster faced an early exit from the day’s stage due to oil cooler damage, forcing withdrawal. However, as a Rally2 competitor, he remains eligible to restart in the next stage. Currently sitting 27th in his category, Tobias is focused on making a strong comeback in the remaining rallies.

Reigning World Champion Ross Branch suffered a heavy crash caused by a hidden rut, resulting in irreparable bike damage and his retirement from the event. Fortunately, Ross escaped injury and is already turning his focus to recovery and upcoming challenges in Morocco and Dakar 2026.

Stage 3 Preview

Stage 3 will take place entirely in Spain, featuring fast, winding dirt tracks over 511 km, with 308 km timed. Riders will need to navigate this technical terrain skillfully to maintain or improve their standings as the rally caravan spends another night in Badajoz.

Conclusion

Hero MotoSports Team Rally remains focused on overcoming challenges, delivering strong performances, and eyeing victories in the upcoming stages of the rally raid season. Fans are encouraged to follow the team’s journey closely as the championship unfolds.