With the spirit of adventure calling, the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy made a powerful return to its roots in Africa for the 2024 edition, bringing riders and fans back to the landscapes where it all began. This year, Namibia served as the event’s breathtaking backdrop, where rugged terrain and spectacular scenery set the stage for six days of intense challenges, thrilling camaraderie, and a journey of a lifetime.
Adventure Awaits: Namibia’s Treacherous Terrains and Unforgiving Trails
This ninth edition of the GS Trophy was anything but ordinary. Teams from 22 countries — 16 men’s and 6 women’s — navigated an adrenaline-fueled 1,350-kilometer route that pushed riders and machines to the limit. Over the six-day journey, participants braved vast savannas, rocky trails, towering canyons, and riverbeds as they confronted some of the harshest conditions Namibia had to offer.
The event didn’t just challenge their riding prowess; it was a holistic test of endurance, navigation skills, mechanical know-how, and above all, teamwork. Each day was designed with a series of special stages, crafted to bring out the best in riders and their rugged BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bikes. With 120 bikes, 32 support vehicles, and nearly 190 participants, the 2024 GS Trophy was a global celebration of adventure, resilience, and the unbreakable GS spirit.
BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024
Triumph for Team Germany: A Decade in the Making
For Team Germany, the final day was electric as they edged closer to reclaiming the GS Trophy title, a feat they hadn’t achieved since 2012. South Africa, known for its dominance in recent years with four consecutive wins, was a tough act to follow, but Germany rose to the occasion with precision and resolve.
From navigating the riverbed of Khan River to conquering the grueling Bosua Pass, Team Germany’s performance was relentless. As the points tallied on the last day, Christopher Michi of Team Germany described the team’s victory as “surreal.” His teammate, Niko Wecker, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the years of preparation that culminated in this unforgettable achievement. "Every special stage, every obstacle—we faced it together as a team," said Wecker. For these riders, this victory was a hard-earned celebration of teamwork and perseverance.
Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Team International’s Female Riders
Another highlight of this year’s competition was the stunning performance of the Female International Team. Overcoming daunting challenges and showcasing remarkable resilience, they rode through Namibia’s toughest landscapes, cementing their place in GS Trophy history.
For rider Małgorzata Jakubiak, winning the Trophy was a dream realized. “We pushed our limits and learned so much along the way,” she shared. Teammate Anna Cárdova added, “It’s an honor I never expected.” Their victory is a testament to the growing presence and impact of female riders in the world of adventure motorcycling, and BMW Motorrad’s continued support of women competitors reflects this evolution.
The female riders didn’t just compete; they excelled. Equipped with the BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike, they tackled each challenge head-on, proving that the GS spirit knows no boundaries. This victory is not only a milestone for Team International but also a beacon for aspiring female adventurers worldwide.
A Journey Through Namibia: Day-by-Day Highlights
Each day of the GS Trophy was packed with unforgettable challenges:
Day 1: From Midgard to Ai Aiba, riders encountered the Namibia Welcome Trial and the AKRAPOVIČ Enduro Challenge, a test of grit in the sandy Omaruru Riverbed.
Day 2: Riders journeyed through Ai Aiba’s game reserve, spotting giraffes and zebras before tackling the iconic Spitzkoppe. Here, the Flying Boxer Challenge required teams to pull a suspended motorcycle across a canyon using ropes—a feat of strength, coordination, and sheer will.
Day 3: In the dry Omaruru Riverbed, riders faced the Camel Thorn Tree Challenge, putting their mechanical skills to the test as they plugged tires under pressure.
Day 4: From Spitzkoppe to the coastal town of Swakopmund, the Rooi Tafel Trial took participants through technical, tight turns in deep sand and rocky terrain—a spectacular test against a stunning coastal backdrop.
Day 5: The longest day covered 400 kilometers from the coast back to Midgard, including the LEATT Push Challenge, where riders simulated a real-world bike start scenario by pushing their motorcycles until the engines roared to life.
Day 6: The competition closed with a final technical loop around Midgard Estate, where riders navigated off-camber turns and tight corners in a slalom, ending an unforgettable week on a high note.
Celebrating Under the Namibian Sky
The closing night saw participants gather under the stars, sharing stories of bravery, teamwork, and newfound friendships. With a local DJ and the band “Blikweg” setting the rhythm, the spirit of GS Trophy was in full display as riders danced, laughed, and celebrated their incredible journey.
Safety in Adventure: BMW’s Commitment to Rider Well-being
Adventure may have been the theme, but safety was paramount. David Rubel, the Lead Medical Coordinator, shared insights into the medical team’s preparation: “Our response time is designed to match European and U.S. standards, with an average of 15 to 16 minutes to reach accident sites.” Four medical cars, two doctors, six paramedics, and a helicopter were on standby, ensuring that every rider felt supported, even in the remote, unpredictable terrain.
Rubel noted the challenges Namibia’s landscape posed: “Dehydration, extreme temperatures, and rocky descents required constant vigilance.” Thanks to a robust rescue chain and satellite communication, riders could embrace the adventure knowing their safety was a top priority.
The Ultimate Machine: BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike
The BMW R 1300 GS proved to be the ultimate adventure partner. Built to endure Namibia’s unforgiving landscape, it features a powerful 1,300cc engine delivering 143 horsepower. Lightweight yet rugged, the bike boasts enduro foot pegs for stability, cross-spoke wheels with off-road tires for superior traction, and adjustable controls for ergonomic adaptability in every challenge.
This iconic machine, with its engine protection bars, skid plates, and customized enhancements, stood as a testament to BMW’s commitment to adventure. It wasn’t just a bike—it was a lifeline, carrying riders across daunting terrains and supporting them through every special stage.
A Legacy of Adventure
The BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 in Namibia was a celebration of skill, endurance, and camaraderie—a journey that brought together riders from around the world in a shared love for adventure. For Team Germany, it was a return to glory. For Team International’s women, it was a historic moment, marking a new chapter for female adventurers in the GS world.
As the event came full circle, returning to Africa where it all began, the GS Trophy reminded the world of one undeniable truth: the spirit of GS is as unbreakable as ever. Here’s to the riders who embrace the unknown, the machines that make it possible, and the adventures still waiting to be discovered.
The GS spirit is alive and well, stronger than ever, ready for whatever lies beyond the horizon. And for the adventurers who live and breathe this spirit, Namibia 2024 was just the beginning.
BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024, Namibia. Final standings:
Male Teams:- Germany, 283 points
- South Africa, 223
- Brazil, 177
- France, 153
- UK, 150
- Latin America, 147
- Italy, 145
- International Team, 140
- China, 139
- India, 134
- Benelux, 125
- South Korea, 117
- Japan, 112
- Mexico, 107
- USA, 94
- Middle East, 93
Female Teams:- International Team, 278
- Japan, 273
- France, 267
- Germany, 263
- South Korea, 249
BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy.
Winners year-by-year.
2024 Male: Germany, Female: International Team
2022 Male: South Africa, Female: South Africa
2020 South Africa
2018 South Africa
2016 South Africa
2014 CEEU (Central Eastern European Union)
2012 Germany
2010 UK
2008 USA
BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy.
Hosting regions year-by-year.2024 Namibia
2022 Albania
2020 New Zealand
2018 Mongolia
2016 Thailand
2014 Canada
2012 Patagonia (Chile, Argentina)
2010 Southern Africa (South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique)
2008 Tunisia
BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy.
Motorcycle models used year-by-year.2024 R 1300 GS
2022 R 1250 GS
2020 F 850 GS
2018 R 1200 GS
2016 R 1200 GS
2014 R 1200 GS
2012 F 800 GS
2010 F 800 GS, R 1200 GS
2008 F 800 GS, R 1200 GS
You can find highlights of the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 on the BMW Motorrad social media channels:
http://www.facebook.com/bmwmotorradhttps://www.instagram.com/bmwmotorradhttps://www.youtube.com/bmwmotorradhttps://www.linkedin.com/bmwmotorrad/showcase/bmwmotorradhttps://www.x.com/bmwmotorradhttps://www.tiktok.com/@bmwmotorrad
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