Rising rally star Tobias Ebster has been announced as the latest member of Hero MotoSports’ rider roster. The Austrian rider impressed on his Dakar debut back in 2024, winning in the Original by Motul category without any assistance. He made the step up to the Rally 2 class for 2025 and finished as the top privateer with a P9 result.
- Buhler parts ways with Hero after four years
- Ebster to compete in the South African Rally
Buhler parts ways with Hero
Ebster replaces Sebastian Buhler, who departs after four years of competing with Hero MotoSports. The Portuguese rider had a tough start to his 2025 campaign, injuring his shoulder early on in the latest Dakar Rally.
“It was an incredible journey filled with unforgettable experiences,” said Buhler. “I want to thank the team for all the hard work and support over the years. Of course, there were challenging times, but also many great memories that I’ll always carry with me.”
Ebster to make Hero debut at South African Rally
Motorsport runs in Ebster’s blood. Guided by his uncle, two-time Motocross World Champion Heinz Kinigadner, he developed his skills in motocross and desert racing. After establishing a solid background in motocross and enduro, Ebster made his rally debut just four years ago. His breakthrough came in 2022, when he won the FIM Bajas World Cup in Dubai. He followed that up with a victory in the Rally 2 category of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge.
He made his Dakar debut in 2024, claiming the top spot in the Original by Motul category and finishing 20th overall. This also earned him the title of ‘Best Rookie’. For Dakar 2025, Ebster stepped up to the Rally 2 category, where riders are allowed to get outside assistance. He finished ninth overall, emerging as the top privateer in the field.
Ebster will make his rally debut for Hero MotoSports at the upcoming South African Safari Rally, running from May 18-24. He’ll race alongside Hero’s existing riders Ross Branch and Jose ‘Nacho’ Cornejo.
“I’m thrilled and deeply honoured to be joining Hero MotoSports, a team that has been making headlines for all the right reasons. I’ve followed the team’s incredible rise over the past few years, and have always admired how quickly they’ve become a force to reckon with in rally racing,” said Ebster.
“It’s an exciting time to join, and I’m fully committed to giving my best and contributing to the team’s continued success. I look forward to racing alongside some of the most talented and promising riders in the sport, many of whom I also consider close friends.”
Dipan Sur
