From Botswana to the top of the world is a long way. With a background in motocross and cross-country rallies, Ross Branch has claimed all the possible continental titles in both disciplines. In 2019, for his first outing on the Dakar, he finished best rookie of the event reaching the final podium in an outstanding 13th position, which remains his best position so far. Ever since he conquered his first ever special stage in 2020 as a privateer, his path to glory has never stopped evolving. Finishing 21st in 2020, he won his first stage to show his prowess but the following year he experienced a rollercoaster of emotions when a silly crash and a chain issue destroyed his hopes of finishing the Dakar in style, after he had reached the rest day within the top five. One of the fastest racers in the field, the likeable South African has competed in all five rounds of the FIM cross-country World Championship to gain more experience and to improve his navigation skills. Working as a commercial airline pilot flying at least twice a week, Ross Branch has speed running in his blood, and we're excited to follow his path.