Day One - Peking to Paris Motor Challenge 2025

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On May 17, 2025, the latest chapter of the legendary Peking to Paris Motor Challenge began, launching 55 crews on a grueling 37-day journey covering nearly 15,000 kilometers through 11 countries. The adventure kicked off beneath the watchful gaze of the Great Wall of China, as an eclectic mix of vintage and classic cars—some more than a hundred years old—set off on one of the toughest endurance rallies in the world.

The starting line was alive with color and ceremony, including a traditional display of Chinese dragon dancing that energized competitors and spectators alike. The field featured a wide range of participants, from seasoned racers to passionate amateurs. Among them were former Le Mans champion Christophe Bouchut behind the wheel of a Peugeot 504 Coupé, and businessman John Caudwell driving a 1938 Chevrolet Coupe. At the heart of the spectacle was the rally’s oldest contender: a 1917 American LaFrance Type 12, a true testament to early automotive engineering.

Day one’s route stretched approximately 461 kilometers from the Great Wall to the city of Datong. Though only the beginning, this leg proved a demanding introduction, setting the pace for the epic journey ahead—one that will traverse deserts, mountain ranges, and multiple borders before concluding in Paris on June 22.

The accompanying video captures the energy, emotion, and extraordinary machines that define the spirit of the rally, offering a glimpse into the adventure that lies ahead for these determined teams.

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