The 9th Peking to Paris Motor Challenge set off on May 17, 2025, once again affirming its reputation as the world’s last great motoring adventure. With 55 international crews undertaking the near-impossible journey from Peking to Paris, this year’s event is spanning 14,988 kilometers across 11 countries in just 37 days. Starting at the iconic Great Wall of China, the rally has been following a formidable route through China, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, and ultimately France, including 10 border crossings and six nights under canvas. Now held 118 years after the original 1907 event, the 2025 edition has come just a year after the triumphant return of the Challenge in 2024, brought forward from its usual three-year cycle due to pandemic disruptions and overwhelming demand. It will resume its normal rhythm in 2028.
Route Planner Chris Elkins, who has worked on seven modern editions of the rally, highlights that while the map may appear similar to 2024’s, the daily driving experience has been significantly reworked to improve the event. With much of the first three weeks spent traversing the Gobi Desert, and key highlights like the dramatic Great Sea Road in China, the 2025 edition has turned out to be a uniquely challenging and unforgettable adventure. According to Elkins, feedback from last year’s rally played a key role in shaping a stronger route, even if implementing those changes felt like “tearing the map up and starting from scratch.”
Among the standout entries have been a number of rare and historic vehicles, with nearly half the field composed of pre-war machines. The oldest car in the rally is a 1917 American LaFrance Type 12, driven by Australians Alan and Leigh Maden, joined in the Pioneer Class by a 1920 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost. Jonathan Turner, a veteran of the 1997 revival edition, returns in his 1929 Bentley, the very same he drove 28 years ago. Also making headlines is Tomas de Vargas Machuca, Chairman of HERO-ERA, who is attempting the rally solo in a 1926 Bentley—a feat never before accomplished in the history of the Peking to Paris.
The rally comprises of a fascinating mix of personalities. Among them is Le Mans winner Cristophe Bouchut, who joined Dakar navigator Prince Alfonso de Orléans-Borbón to tackle the harsh terrain of the Gobi Desert. Bouchut brings with him an incredible track record, including victories at Le Mans, Daytona, Spa, Nürburgring, and Dubai. Another notable entry is the diminutive 1973 Fiat 500, the smallest car ever to enter the P2P, crewed by Federico Pedini Amati, Minister of Tourism for the Republic of San Marino, alongside desert expert Fabio Longo and P2P veteran Roberto Chiodi. This symbolic entry pays homage to the spirit of the 1907 winner, Prince Scipione Borghese.
The Classic Category comprises of a compelling lineup, including multiple Porsche 911s, Ford Escorts, and Datsuns. More unusual is the Volvo 220 Estate entered by American duo John and David Houck, providing them with ample luggage space. Another highlight is a pair of Peugeot 504 Coupés, including a former works rally car piloted by none other than Bouchut himself. Having also made his debut is UK entrepreneur and philanthropist John Caudwell, who will be competing with his brother Brian in a 1938 Chevrolet Fangio Master Coupe. Known for his charitable work through Caudwell Children, Caudwell Youth, and Caudwell Lyme Co., John is now facing what could be the toughest personal challenge of his life.
As always, this event is demanding immense physical and mental stamina. With long days on challenging terrain and early starts followed by late finishes, the importance of camaraderie becomes essential. “The spirit in the camp is such an important part of the event,” says HERO-ERA Competition Director Guy Woodcock. “When the car starts to misbehave, it’s those around you who get you through.” By the time competitors reach Paris, many will have formed bonds stronger than they ever anticipated—some lasting a lifetime.
The 2025 Challenge includes a number of returning competitors from the 2024 edition, many of whom fondly recall the unexpected delights of rural China. “It blows your expectations,” says Elkins, referencing the cultural richness and scenic beauty found in the early stages of the rally. While many see the P2P as a bucket list event, few appreciate the sheer endurance required. Woodcock stresses, “Forget the term ‘race.’ This isn’t about speed—it’s about survival. You must care for the car and yourself.”
Having left the start line on May 17, the adventure is continuing with the final week of the rally approaching as the competitors round out “Drive the Impossible.” The rally continues to represent more than just an event—it is a living celebration of historic motoring, international friendship, and human resilience, all of the values that FIVA champions worldwide.
Pictures by Will Broadhead Photographic and Blue Passion
