Enduro Racer Ares Masip Opens Up About Alleged Sexual Assault in the Leogang World Cup Pits
Enduro racer Ares Masip released a video on social media today, alleging she was sexually assaulted by a fellow rider while sleeping in her van during the Enduro World Cup in Leogang in June 2023. Masip describes how the alleged attacker covered her mouth, restrained her arms, and threatened to rape her while attempting to undress her. Initially, she tried to suppress the incident, but she later decided to file a formal report.
Currently residing in Andorra, Masip shared that she is not publicly naming her alleged attacker on the advice of her legal team. She described the individual as "a loved and respected person in the enduro world." Reports were filed with both the UCI and Spanish police in October 2024, but Masip states that it is uncertain whether charges will be brought against the alleged assailant.
Ares Masip
"I'm explaining my situation because I think that the aggressors rely on the silence of the victims and the environment, because in many cases it has been seen that it's normalized, hidden and silenced, but in order to change these situations it's necessary that we start telling it. But I'm afraid, because when cases like this come out, the victim is questioned. My face will be public and the people will ask me questions and I will receive many comments. But I hope it helps to change things. I have spoken because I have seen other victims tell it. I hope that my case serves to eliminate (or reduce) these situations in the paddock and cycling becomes a safe space for women."