As the countdown to the 2026 Goiás FIM Intercontinental Games continues, we meet 41-year-old Damion Purificati, one of the South African mechanics joining the FIM Africa team in Brazil.
Damion’s involvement in motorcycle racing began in 2013, when he met his wife, Nicole Purificati, who was competing in the South African National Supersport class. He quickly found himself drawn to both racing and working on motorcycles, becoming Nicole’s mechanic that same year. He has remained her mechanic ever since.
Being selected for the FIM Africa team is something Damion is grateful for, with his focus firmly on preparing the motorcycles to the best of his ability.
“Very grateful and hope to prep the bikes to my best.”
In Brazil, Damion will work as a mechanic, with his main focus on making sure the motorcycles are properly prepared and that the riders are safe and comfortable.
His preparation starts from the front of the motorcycle and works all the way through, checking that everything is secure and making sure important components such as brake pads, fluids, water, chains and sprockets are ready to last the race weekend.
One potential challenge in Brazil would be having several riders crash at the same time. If that happens, Damion says the mechanics would face the pressure of getting the motorcycles repaired and back on the grid without missing a race or practice session.
One of his favourite moments as a mechanic came at the 2026 Ohvale Supercup, where he helped a South African rider reach the Super Finale. The rider later thanked Damion for preparing what he described as the best bike he had ridden.
Now, Damion is looking forward to seeing the FIM Africa team take on the world stage.
“Can’t wait to see Team Africa show the world what we are about.”
He is also looking forward to working alongside team members from different African countries and seeing how they work together as one team.
Damion’s favourite racing discipline is Superbike racing, although he says he enjoys working on all motorcycles and loves the challenge that comes with them.
10–13 DECEMBER 2026
GOIÂNIA, BRAZIL
The countdown continues.
