“We were pedalling for four weeks in the desert and it was completely fascinating. Just listening to myself describe the journey sounds unbelievable – but the welcome and hospitality we experienced along the way made it worthwhile. It has been mind-blowing.”
Martin and Balamissa are the latest intrepid adventurers to complete extreme journeys to Qatar for the World Cup. Saudi adventurer Abdullah Al Salmi walked 1,600km from Jeddah to Doha in 55 days while Argentinean quartet – Lucas Ledezma, Leandro Pighi, Silvio Gatti and Matias Vercesi – cycled to Qatar from South Africa, a journey of 10,000km in 177 days.
“Even though we knew Doha and the World Cup were our final destination, we refused to get excited until we crossed the border,” said Balamissa. “We knew the journey would be difficult – but this amazing reception is very emotional for us.”
France got their World Cup campaign off to the perfect start with a 4-1 win against Australia at Al Janoub Stadium. They will play their second Group D fixture against Denmark today at Stadium 974, followed by a match against Tunisia on November 30 at Education City Stadium.
