The rally raid community has had to say farewell to Robert van Pelt Senior. A man whose life was largely devoted to rally sport. A competitor with an impressive track record, but above all a beloved husband, father, teammate, and friend. Rob van Pelt was 67 years old.
During Stage 7 of the Africa Eco Race, from Chami to Aïdzidine in Mauritania, Rob became unwell during the stage and is believed to have fallen. After a successful resuscitation, he was transferred to a hospital in Nouakchott, where he was kept in a coma. He was then transported by a specialized medical aircraft to Gran Canaria for advanced medical care. There, his family, Ellen, Nikki, and Robert, received the heartbreaking news that no brain activity was detected. Once back in the Netherlands, he passed away surrounded by his loved ones on Wednesday evening, February 11th. Rob had therefore completed his final race.
A life dedicated to rally raid
Rob van Pelt Senior had been part of the international rally raid world since the late nineteen nineties. He began as a motorcycle rider and grew into one of the most experienced Dutch competitors in the discipline. His name is inseparably linked to the Dakar Rally, where he competed both on a motorcycle and later as a navigator.
As a navigator, he formed a long-standing and successful partnership with Maik Willems within the Bastion Hotels Dakar Team. Between 2013 and 2024, they lined up together at multiple Dakar editions. Rob was known as a calm, analytical navigator with exceptional rally knowledge. His experience was of great value to teams and drivers who worked alongside him.
Alongside his role as a navigator, Rob also remained active as a rider himself. He competed in rallies across North Africa and participated in events such as the Tuareg Rallye and the Morocco Desert Challenge. His passion for rally raid was not limited to one role or vehicle. For Rob, it was about adventure, challenge, and life in the desert.
A lasting legacy
With the passing of Rob van Pelt Senior, the rally raid sport loses a competitor with an outstanding career and immense passion. His name remains connected to countless rallies, finishes, adventures, and stories. Above all, he will be remembered as a man who lived for the sport and for the people with whom he shared it.
The rally world loses a personality, a character, and a friend in the bivouac.
We extend our deepest condolences to Ellen, Nikki, Robert, and all family, friends, team members, and rally colleagues during this difficult loss.
