Breaking onto the podium in the EMX125 class is a milestone for any young rider—but doing so in the deep, punishing sand of Riola makes it even more special. For Swiss talent Emil Ziemer, a track far removed from the typical hardpack conditions of his home country became the stage for a breakthrough performance. After years of dedication, setbacks, and relentless work, Ziemer delivered a weekend he will never forget.
“It felt unbelievable to get on the podium,” Ziemer told GateDrop.com, still processing the magnitude of the moment. “In that moment I couldn’t even realise what I just did—it was such an emotional moment.”
The weekend began with a tightly contested time practice session, where the field was incredibly close. Ziemer carried that momentum into the first race, overcoming a poor start with determination and sharp race craft. But Sunday would elevate the experience even further.
“The first Race went really well, I had a bad start but I managed to pass a lot of guys in the first few corners. I then rode a good race and finished in third, I was super happy about that. Sunday was one of the best days in my life to be honest. In the beginning I rode a really good pace and was in second then I just tried to ride consistent and to not crash. I was able to get the second place overall, it is just amazing. My dad told me before the weekend that now it‘s time for the podium so I’m very happy that it became reality”.
Riola’s demanding sand circuit, known for its deep ruts and ever-changing surface, is not typically where you’d expect a Swiss rider to shine. Yet for Ziemer, it’s exactly the kind of challenge he thrives on and more importantly – enjoys.
“To be honest I love this track in Riola so much because of how rough it gets. It’s probably weird to hear, but I love sand riding since I did it for the first time. That’s very unusual for a Swiss rider, but I just love to play with the bike in heavy conditions.”
Behind this success lies a story of resilience and hard work. Training in Switzerland presents its own difficulties, especially during winter months when riding opportunities are limited. His effort becomes even more remarkable considering what he endured just two years ago – he was almost left in a wheelchair.
“This winter I worked my ass off,” Ziemer admitted. “Because we live in Switzerland it’s really hard to spend time on the bike, so I spent most of the time at home on the bicycle and in the gym. In 2024, I broke five vertebrae in my back. It almost had me in the wheelchair, so to be on the podium now is such a big, big relief.”
Ziemer also credits the competitive environment around him as a key factor in his progress.
“It’s a privilege to have an opponent like Ryan (Oppliger), and I think we push ourselves a lot. Of course the dream is to become pro. I’ll just try to ride like I can and continue like now.”
Having already achieved his initial goal for the season, Ziemer’s mindset has shifted – he’s now going with the mentality to win races.
“My goal for the season was to get a podium, but now that I achieved that, I’ll go for the win”, Ziemer concluded.
Ziemer’s first EMX125 podium is more than just a result—it’s the culmination of years of sacrifice, recovery, and relentless belief. From battling through a life-threatening injury to mastering one of the toughest sand tracks in Europe, his story is one of perseverance and passion. With confidence growing and expectations rising, this breakthrough weekend in Riola may well be just the beginning of a promising career.
