Mathieu Baumel is one of the most famous names in rally-raid – a popular motorsport in which vehicles race long distances over hugely challenging terrains.
As a co-driver and navigator, the 49-year-old has partnered drivers to some of the biggest and most prestigious titles in the sport, including the Dakar Rally and the World Rally-Raid World Championship.
In January 2025 Mathieu’s life changed forever when he was hit by a car whilst at the roadside helping passengers of a broken-down vehicle. He was placed into an induced coma. Mathieu also suffered severe leg injuries, resulting in the amputation of his right leg.
A long-time friend of the brand who has used our footwear in his training for many years, Mathieu is now putting trust in our shoes during his rehabilitation.
For this new blog post, we talked to Mathieu about his career, the life-changing incident and his reshaped future goals.
MATHIEU BAUMEL Q&A
You’ve enjoyed a glittering rally-raid career. What have been your highlights?
Winning the Dakar Rally four times and the World Rally-Raid World Championship twice.
I started my career in 1997 by competing in the French Rally Championship. I climbed up the ranks and took part in my first Dakar Rally in 2005.
I’m also proud to have been Rally2 World Champion, World Cup Rally Raid Champion (four times) and Middle East Rally Champion (nine times).
As a raid-rally co-driver, what role did fitness training and running play in preparing you for races?
A race like the Dakar Rally can typically last around 12-14 days and cover several thousand kms. During the race the body undergoes numerous shocks, particularly to the neck, back, abdominal and leg muscles. Regular fitness training helps prevent these repeated traumas. A stronger – less tired – body allows you to retain energy and stay focused for longer during races.
What are your recollections of what happened on January 29 this year
Everything happened very fast. I stopped on the side of the road to assist some people who had a broken-down car when another car just hit us. The impact resulted in severe body injuries, and I was placed under an artificial coma.
Due to the severity of the injuries, I decided to amputate my right leg. My left leg has a polytrauma but has been save by doctors.
How has it changed your life and your perspective on life?
After four major operations, including amputation, my life will, of course, never be the same again, but I am still here and still alive.
What you learn is that life is unpredictable and we need to enjoy every moment. Enjoy family, friends and making your dreams come true before it’s too late.
You have an inspiring outlook on life – what goals have you now set yourself for the future?
Very quickly after my amputation I set myself the goal of returning to competition as quickly as possible. My goal is the Dakar Rally in 2026. I don’t know if I’ll make it, but I will work hard every day to try and get there. Cycling, running, skiing… if my physique allows me, I will do it.
You’ve worn INOV8 shoes for many years – why are we your brand of choice?
I’ve lived in Andorra for many years now with mountains all around me. To go hiking or running, you need comfortable and high-performance shoes. The grip you get with INOV8 shoes is just amazing. Whatever the terrain and weather I will face, I know I have INOV8 shoes ready for the challenge.
How will footwear play a role in helping with your rehabilitation?
Following my amputation, I now use a prosthesis. The problem is that I have no feeling about the positioning of my foot. It is very important for me to have 100% confidence in my shoe and its sole.
The shoe must have enough comfort without being too flexible to guarantee optimum support. For my other foot, the shoe must have very good longitudinal support but also lateral support. Thankfully INOV8 shoes bring me all this.
What would you say to inspire people other people dealing with big changes to their lives?
For me, the accident is not the end but a stage of life. Change like this does not necessarily have to be negative. It’s best to have a goal, a project, and look forward with desire to do better. Share your experiences and talk to others – this will bring new options in life.
Follow Mathieu's inspirating rehabilitation story on his Instagram
