Tom Koch (KTM): A spectacular adventure in the Congo instead of the Grand Prix

Last weekend, Sarholz rider Tom Koch did not line up at the start in Arnhem. The reason: a number of European riders had been invited to the Wansela Cross in the Congo. Among others, Tom Koch, Nico Koch and the Swiss rider Mike Gwerder made the journey to Africa.

Tom Koch startete beim Wansela Cross in Kongo

Foto: Wansela

Background

The initiator and mastermind behind the event is Andy Barampana Mutombo, a local politician who is a self-confessed motocross enthusiast. The Wansela Cross is explicitly designed not only to offer motor sport, but also to promote tourism and draw international attention to the region. On 21 August 2026, the fourth Wansela Cross took place. Alongside Congolese riders, participants from France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland and South Africa took part. The event featured motocross and quad races, as well as freestyle shows.

Entry fees and prize money

The Europeans were lured to Africa with attractive entry and prize money. For many riders, the World Championship has become far too expensive. An offer from Africa came at just the right time. The Swiss KTM rider Mike Gwerder made it onto the podium. The winner was the Frenchman Adrien Malaval (Yamaha), ahead of the Spaniard Yago Martinez (KTM).

The trip to the Congo

“We flew to the Congo and collected our motorbikes there,” Tom Koch told SPEEDWEEK.com. “The organisation went very smoothly and the race was well prepared. Before setting off, we were vaccinated against yellow fever and took tablets to prevent malaria.” Tom is now back home in Germany and is preparing for the two Masters races and the German Championship at the Talkessel on 6 September.

Wansela Cross Congo

1. Adrien Malaval (F), Yamaha

2. Yago Martinez (E), KTM

3. Mike Gwerder (CH), KTM

4. Nico Koch (D), KTM

5. Tom Koch (D), KTM