In May 2025, French firefighter and stuntman Jonathan Vero did something almost no one on Earth would dare. He set himself on fire and rode a motorcycle nearly the length of five football fields. By July, his feat had gone viral and for good reason.
This wasn’t a movie stunt or a digital effect. It was real, dangerous, and deeply personal. For Vero, it was the fulfillment of a childhood dream and the result of years of preparation, pain, and passion.
Fast Facts
- Record: Rode a motorcycle 1,450 feet while fully on fire
- Performer: Jonathan Vero, firefighter and stuntman from France
- Bike Used: Modified Yamaha DragStar 1100 with fireproofing
- Safety Gear: Fire-retardant suit and professional-grade thermal gels
- Announced: Guinness World Records, July 2025
What Actually Happened?
Vero earned the Guinness World Record for the farthest distance full-body burn while riding a motorcycle. He covered 1,450 feet (442.10 meters) on a fireproofed Yamaha DragStar 1100 while completely engulfed in flames without oxygen support.
The record-setting moment took place in Côte d’Or, France, in May 2025. It exploded online after the Guinness World Records announcement in July. Social media lit up, especially TikTok, Reddit, and X, amplified by coverage from outlets like UPI, Daily Caller, and OutKick.
Timeline: Jonathan Vero’s Guinness Journey
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2003 | Begins combining fire performance with firefighting after training in fire poi and breathing |
| 2022 | Fastest 100m sprint while on fire (17 seconds) |
| 2022 | Longest full-body burn run without oxygen (272.25 meters) |
| 2023–24 | Performs fire shows, trains performers, collaborates with influencers |
| May 2025 | Rides 1,450 feet on fire to set Guinness record |
| July 2025 | Record goes viral following official announcement |
Who Is Jonathan Vero?
Jonathan Vero is a 41-year-old firefighter from France who turned his knowledge of fire safety into a global career in extreme fire performance. Known as @joe.ignition on Instagram, he runs Ignition Fire Performances, offering everything from large-scale pyrotechnics to stunt consulting for brands and events.
He discovered fire arts in 2003 and began practicing fire poi, staff spinning, and breathing as a hobby while working full time in emergency services. Over the years, he evolved into one of Europe’s top fire-based stunt performers.
Fire Disciplines He Specializes In:
- Fire breathing
- Poi and staff spinning
- Full-body fire burns (human torch)
- Pyrotechnics and flame shows
- Motorcycle-based fire stunts
- Fire walking and flame photography
How Did He Actually Do It?
The stunt wasn’t reckless. It was the result of intense preparation and engineering.
Jonathan modified his Yamaha DragStar 1100 using heat-resistant materials to keep it from igniting. He wore a fireproof suit and applied high-performance thermal gels, such as HydroGel, to protect his skin. These gels form a shield that delays burn injuries under extreme heat for brief periods.
To achieve this performance, I had to modify the bike to make it fireproof, then I practised riding on fire over several distances and in different types of weather. Luckily, the weather was great on the day of the performance and the track was perfect, so I reproduced what I did in training, trying to cover as much distance as possible whilst staying on fire.
Behind-the-Scenes Fire Stunt Prep
- Each suit layer was tested against varying temperatures
- Gel was applied in multiple coats and topped with fire-retardant clothing
- The ignition team practiced timed lighting for even burn coverage
- Temperatures and wind speed were monitored in real time
- Emergency crew stood by with extinguishers and medical gear
“My team and I rehearsed everything. You can’t wing a stunt like this. It has to be exact, or someone gets hurt.” – Jonathan Vero
His Crew: Safety Behind the Flames
Vero doesn’t work alone. He collaborates with a crew of safety professionals, including flame technicians, fireproofing assistants, and photographers trained in heat zone protocols. Each role is essential to safely pulling off a record-level burn.
“Trust is everything. The people who light you on fire need to know your limits, your signals, and your backup plan.” – Jonathan Vero
Addressing the Ethics & Safety
This kind of stunt is not for amateurs.
Vero is a licensed firefighter and professionally trained stuntman. His work is done under strict supervision with proper approvals from Guinness and industry safety bodies. All elements, suit, fuel, fire team, are regulated, rehearsed, and recorded.
Even with preparation, the risk is real. Past burns took him over a week to recover. This is not something you replicate on a dare.
Why the Internet Fell in Love
The story had everything: danger, visuals, speed, and emotion. But what hit home was Vero’s motivation. He did it to inspire — not impress.
“Fire doesn’t have to be feared. It can be controlled, even celebrated, when you understand its rhythm.” – Jonathan Vero
His childhood dream of being in the Guinness Book finally came true. And the world noticed.
From Unknown to Internet Icon
Before the record, Vero had already been performing at private events and working with content creators. Now, he’s become a global symbol of calculated fearlessness.
Client Work & Commercial Stunts:
Vero offers fire shows for festivals, branding campaigns, music videos, and private events. He has partnered with French influencers, event companies, and corporate brands to turn his flames into storytelling tools.
His bookings increased after the viral video, and fire-themed experiences now make up most of his full-time career.
What’s Next for Jonathan Vero?
Vero hasn’t announced a new record attempt, but he’s staying busy. His website hints at expanding into creative fire direction and more commercial stunts for film and advertising. He also trains younger performers across Europe on safe fire handling.
His story is still unfolding. But one thing’s clear. He’s not done pushing limits yet.
Press & Coverage
Quick FAQ
No serious injuries were reported, but past stunts caused burns and physical fatigue.
Yes. He is a certified firefighter and trained fire artist with over 20 years of experience.
No. These stunts require professional gear, training, and a dedicated safety crew.
A modified Yamaha DragStar 1100 fireproofed for extreme temperatures.
Instagram: @joe.ignition | Website: ignition-fire.com