MXGP of Citta di Mantova

MXGP 2021    Round 18 

Championship bronze for Gajser after a podium at Mantova finale

In what was the tightest battle in recent memory, Team HRC’s Tim Gajser ended up with an MXGP bronze medal for his third place in the championship, after finishing second at the 18^th and final round of this year’s motocross world championship.

After an unfortunate incident at the beginning of Sunday’s race one, Gajser came into this round needing to gain 15 points over his rivals and despite his three-two moto scores, he was unable to over-turn that gap and instead had to settle for the third step on the championship podium. It was a disappointing end to what has been an incredible season, filled with many ups and down, but the Honda rider can be proud of an effort that saw him win seven motos and four overalls this year.

In race one, the Slovenian rider was unable to get out front off the start and instead had to work his way through the field. On lap one he was in seventh but as he has proved numerous times during the season, he quickly moved forward and by lap six he was in third and giving chase to the top two. Despite a lot of pressure, he was unable to make the move and as they crossed the line, he had to settle for third place.

Knowing that his championship chances were decreasing all the time, the Honda rider still put in 100% effort into race two, getting a much better jump out of the gate and rounding the first lap in third place. This time he was looking much more aggressive and he quickly moved into second after a mistake by the rider ahead. Setting his sights on a victory in the final moto of the year, he once again put enormous pressure on the leader but he came up just short, crossing the line 1.4 seconds behind the winner.

It was a valiant effort and one that is typical of the #243 who never gave up, despite suffering a number of hardships throughout this 2021 campaign. He also provided a lot of great moments this year with some excellent performances, most notably in Russia when he overtook the entire field, and then when he won in Germany, just a few weeks after recovering from a surgery. However, overall, Gajser will be disappointed not to have added to his four world titles after leading the series for the majority of the rounds.

With the 2022 season scheduled to begin early next year, there won’t be too much time to reflect and recover from this tumultuous campaign, but no doubt that Gajser will ready and raring to go come the first gate-drop of the opening round.

Tim Gajser   ²⁴³

To come third in the championship is obviously not what I wanted when we came to Mantova last week, but this season has been filled with a lot of ups and downs and sometimes things just don’t go your way. It was a really close season until the very end, and we had some really good battles and I think we put on a great show for all the fans. Congratulations to Jeffrey for winning the title, he did what he needed to do and it was good to finish the season with another tight race with him, pushing until the chequered flag. It sounds like we’ll be starting the season at the end of February so we don’t have much of a break but I will have a little holiday and then prepare myself for 2022. A big thank you to all of the team and all the fans, I am privileged to have such great support on and off the track and I look forward to trying to win my fifth title next year.

Marcus Pereira de Freitas

HRC General Manager – MXGP

Coming into this race, Tim needed a bit of help if he was to become champion but he is still a champion in our eyes because he always gives 100% every time he goes on the track, and because of the way he acts off the track too. Even when he knew that the title was unlikely, he kept pushing, and it was a great riding to come through the field and finish second overall here in Mantova. The whole of Team HRC are very proud of his effort and we thank him for all the great memories he gave us this year. Thank you Tim!

Race 1 

Pos.RiderNumNationPoints TeamTime/Gap 1HERLINGS Jeffrey84NDL25Red Bull KTM Factory Racing35:20.7092FEBVRE Romain3FRA22Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing0:02.4653GAJSER Tim243SLO20Team HRC – MXGP0:02.8244SEEWER Jeremy91SWI18Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team0:48.4845PRADO GARCIA Jorge61SPA16Red Bull KTM Factory Racing0:56.1626KJER OLSEN Thomas19DEN15Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing0:57.3717BOISRAME Mathys172FRA14Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing0:58.1078COLDENHOFF Glenn259NDL13Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team0:58.5909WATSON Ben919GBR12Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team1:00.07510BOGERS Brian189NDL11Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing Team1:02.61511JACOBI Henry29GER10JM Honda Racing1:08.21812FERNANDEZ Ruben70SPA9Honda 114 Motorsports1:09.35213VAN HOREBEEK Jeremy89BEL8Beta SDM Corse MX Team1:14.34714JASIKONIS Arminas27LTU7Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing1:18.54715WRIGHT Dylan109CAN6Wildcard Rider1:23.84616SIMPSON Shaun24GBR5SS24 KTM MXGP1:26.79217VAN DONINCK Brent32BEL4Gebben Van Venrooy Yamaha Racing1:31.34818KOCH Tom226GER3KTM Sarholz1:33.10219BRYLYAKOV Vsevolod18RUS2JWR Honda Racing1:37.11720GUILLOD Valentin92SWI1Standing Construct KTM2:00.747

Race 2 

Pos.RiderNumNationPoints TeamTime/Gap 1HERLINGS Jeffrey84NDL25Red Bull KTM Factory Racing35:29.4932GAJSER Tim243SLO22Team HRC – MXGP0:01.4973FEBVRE Romain3FRA20Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing0:41.8144SEEWER Jeremy91SWI18Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team0:43.0285BOGERS Brian189NDL16Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing Team0:45.5106FERNANDEZ Ruben70SPA15Honda 114 Motorsports0:47.0047PRADO GARCIA Jorge61SPA14Red Bull KTM Factory Racing0:50.9918COLDENHOFF Glenn259NDL13Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP Team0:58.5639VAN HOREBEEK Jeremy89BEL12Beta SDM Corse MX Team1:00.963–

Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP Press release

Médaille d’argent pour Romain Febvre et le Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team
Romain Febvre termine la saison 2021 à une belle seconde place dans le championnat du Monde MXGP, en décrochant à Mantova (Italie) son dixième podium de la saison.

Abordant cette finale avec la plaque rouge de leader du championnat, Romain allait signer le meilleur chrono aux essais libres avant de poster le second temps aux essais chronométrés, dans le sillage de Jeffrey Herlings son rival pour le titre. Une fois de plus il signait un excellent départ en première manche, dans le sillage d’un équipier de son rival auteur du holeshot et toujours difficile à doubler. Au cinquième tour Herlings parvenait à prendre le meilleur sur les deux hommes de tête, creusant un écart avant que Romain ne trouve lui aussi l’ouverture pour s’emparer de la seconde place ; abaissant alors ses chronos de deux secondes, Romain allait réduire l’écart avec le leader sans pouvoir toutefois l’attaquer. Au terme de cette première manche les deux candidats au titre se retrouvaient à égalité parfaite avant la trente sixième et dernière manche de l’année ; après plus de vingt heures de course tout au long de la saison, celui qui allait devancer l’autre dans cette manche serait champion ! Signant un autre excellent départ Romain virait en seconde position, avant de prendre la tête dès le premier tour de course ; au tour suivant Herlings portait une attaque assez agressive et passait en tête, mais Romain évoluait dans son sillage jusqu’à ce qu’un changement d’adhérence lui fasse perdre le contrôle de sa moto en sortie de virage. Perdant dix secondes et une place, Romain voyait ses espoirs de titre s’envoler ! Troisième du GP il montait pour la dixième fois de la saison sur le podium, s’inclinant dans la course au titre pour cinq petits points ; son résultat permet à Kawasaki de terminer second des constructeurs engagés en MXGP.

Son équipier Mathys Boisrame allait de son côté signer son meilleur résultat dans la catégorie ; dixième temps aux essais, il prenait une excellente septième place en première manche. Un moment cinquième de cette manche, il perdra deux positions en fin de course face à des rivaux plus aguerris, son épaule touchée dimanche le faisant souffrir en fin de course. Sa seconde manche sera plus difficile ; bousculé au second départ il reviendra en douzième position, avant que la douleur ne l’oblige à ralentir puis finalement à se retirer.

Romain Febvre : « Echouer si près du but est vraiment dur. J’ai donné le meilleur de moi même donc je n’ai pas de regrets, mais cela n’a pas suffit pour décrocher le titre. Là je me sens un peu mal avec moi même bien sur, mais c’est la compétition ; c’est dur de perdre ainsi mais j’ai tout donné. Sur l’instant c’est dur à vivre mais je vais m’en remettre, je voudrais remercier le Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team pour leur investissement et leur implication, on a fait du bon travail ensemble ces deux dernières années et l’an prochain je reviendrais me battre pour le titre, toujours avec Kawasaki. »

Mathys Boisrame : « Encore une journée mitigée avec une bonne qualification en dixième position, puis une bonne première manche. Je suis parti et j’ai tenu un bon rythme pendant la majorité de la manche, mais en fin de course mon épaule touchée dans la chute dimanche était de plus en plus douloureuse. Septième, c’était un bon résultat. Mon second départ n’a pas été aussi bon, je suis revenu douzième avant que la douleur à l’épaule ne devienne telle que j’ai commencé à faire des erreurs ce qui m’a incité à rentrer aux stands. Ce fut une superbe expérience que de piloter une moto d’usine en MXGP ; je veux remercier le team KRT qui m’a offert cette opportunité. Maintenant on va prendre un peu de repos, pour récupérer de la saison. »

Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP would like to thank: Kawasaki, Monster Energy, Alpinestars, Motorex, Pro Circuit, Dunlop, Showa, Xtrig, Renthal, Vertex, Polisport, Hinson, Wagner meca, Braking, Kawasaki Apparel, D.I.D, Twin Air, NGK, Blackbird, Cometic, Antigravity batteries, Haan Wheels, Beta, CRM, Samco Sport, JTEKT, Ogio, Mechanix Wear, Matrix concepts, Mollar, Garage Tonon, Oakley, GoPro.

HERLINGS CROWNED 2021 MXGP WORLD CHAMPION2021 MXGP news

Jeffrey Herlings has delivered Red Bull KTM Factory Racing their eighth premier class FIM Motocross World Championship since 2010 and third with the KTM 450 SX-F with victory at the 2021 season-closing Grand Prix Citta di Mantova in Italy.

– 27-year-old Herlings rules 2021 MXGP by just 5 points after last round, last moto thriller at Mantova- Herlings ends 2021 with 9 victories, 14 podiums 13 Pole Positions from seventeen rounds- The Dutchman takes his world championship tally to five and two in the MXGP division, his last coming in 2018. KTM celebrate Constructors title 

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing are MXGP World Champions for the third time since 2017 thanks to Jeffrey Herlings’ stellar season throughout 2021. #84, who has been a KTM racer his whole career and since emerging onto the Grand Prix scene as a 15-year-old in 2010 has increased his stats with a resolutely fast and strong performance this term and in what has been a close and memorable campaign for MXGP.

Entering the final two rounds and the ‘double-header’ at Mantova, Herlings was one of three riders separated by only 3 points in the MXGP standings. The Citta di Mantova climax across the Mantova sand and under cloudy skies meant Herlings had to combat both Romain Febvre (who he trailed by 3 points coming into the last motos) and Tim Gajser.

Herlings withstood the pressure and went 1-1 in the two outings in Italy to re-enter his name in the record books. He also claimed 9 Grand Prix wins in 2021 which means he stands only two away from the all-time record of 101 and with another two years ahead as a Red Bull KTM Factory Racing athlete.

Jeffrey Herlings: “I’m super-happy but at the same time I feel bad for the other two guys. I want to thank both of them for a great championship. The bad thing about our sport is that only one can win but they have been great and I have such respect for both of them. To go 1-1 today was special. I haven’t slept for a week thinking about what could happen, what might happen and this-and-that. This wasn’t an easy championship. All three of us kept charging until the last moto, especially me and Romain in these last two races, and the pressure was on. I didn’t break and I made the championship happen. It was the most difficult one ever, so many ups-and-downs, and I’ve needed nerves of steel these last weeks but we made it.”

Dirk Gruebel, Red Bull KTM Team Manager: “What a tough season! We went from leading to nowhere because Jeffrey got hurt and then was out of the competition. He came back early and I think that race he made at Lommel was the difference. He rode through the pain and put us back on track. His pain threshold and his desire is crazy. Other guys would have probably stayed away and healed-up but he wanted to stay in the game. Now he’s world champion. Today was ‘horrible’ for the whole team! We were tied after the first moto and it went down to the last race and the best man would win. It looked like Jeffrey wanted it more again. Big credit to him for the first-class job and to all the team for pushing all the way..

Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “This was not a normal season. It was a difficult and special title to win. The competition was incredible so big compliments to them: Tim and Romain produced an incredible year and any one of the guys would have deserved a title but we also worked really hard for this. Jeffrey was amazing. He had ups-and-downs but was always fighting and coming back for more. It is always an emotional ride with him but, in the end, I feel that he deserved this title the most. I have to thank the whole team because they have made so much effort but in our motocross ‘world’ the rider is the superstar and we have great ones in our team. Tony, Jorge, Mattia, Rene and Tom: the relationship we have is also amazing and makes our work so much fun. We will go home tomorrow to work hard and continue to be strong next year.

Back-to-Back Grand Prix Wins Grants Geerts MX2 Silver Medal as Renaux Celebrates Title Winning Season with 14th Podium Finish 

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2’s duo of Jago Geerts and Maxime Renaux made it a perfect end to an exceptional season for Yamaha and the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team, celebrating the 18th and final round of the FIM MX2 World Championship from the top-two steps of the podium. Geerts triumphed the MX2 Grand Prix of Citta di Mantova with a 1-2 scorecard and successfully defended his ‘world number two’ ranking. At the same time, the newly crowned World Champion, Renaux, ended a successful world title campaign with a race win, which paired with the 20-points scored for third position in race one was enough for the Frenchman to collect his 14th piece of podium silverware. Thanks to the efforts of Renaux, Geerts and teammate, Thibault Benistant, who did not attend the final two rounds due to a knee injury sustained before the penultimate round, Yamaha has retained the MX2 Manufacturers’ World Championship gold plate. 

Returning to Mantova after winning the penultimate round at the same venue three days ago, Geerts arrived beaming with confidence. The first race got underway with the ‘93’ powering his YZ250FM around turn-one in second position before quickly ramping up the pace and taking the lead on lap two. From there, the Belgian ensured he was the quickest on track by posting the fastest lap time and eventually ran away for a convincing race win – his fifth of the season. 

After securing the MX2 world title at the 16th round of the series in Pietramurata, Renaux felt relaxed as he weaved his way forward from a 10th place start to finish third in race one. 

The final race of the season was a thrilling showdown between the Yamaha stars Renaux and Geerts. The duo swapped second position a couple of times on the opening lap until Geerts made a small mistake and handed Renaux an early advantage. 

On lap three, Renaux blitzed around the outside of Mattia Guadagnini to take the lead, with Geerts following suit a lap later. From there, the pair pushed the pace, posting lap times more than 1.5 seconds quicker than any other rider on track.

In the end, Geerts was a formidable challenger but was unable to get close enough to make a move on ‘The Champ’ after crashing twice. 

Renaux held his composure for the entire 18 lap race duration to seal the deal on a 10th race win, while Geerts had enough of a buffer to finish strong in second position.

This season, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team has celebrated 221 laps led, 42 top-three finishes, 17 race wins, 23 podiums, and nine Grand Prix victories between its three riders. Yamaha riders Antonio Cairoli, Andrew McFarlane and Alessio Chiodi locked out the top-three positions in the MX2 World Championship back in 2005, but the riders were not all on the same team. Therefore, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team has also made history as the first Yamaha team to secure the gold and silver medals in MX2 in the same season. 

For full results from the MX2 Grand Prix of Citta di Mantova, click here.

Jago Geerts

MX2 Grand Prix of Citta di Mantova Winner, 47-points

2021 MX2 World Championship Runner-Up

“I’m really happy. The last two rounds here were really good. Even in the last race, I was chasing Maxime and made a small crash, but then I came back. I wanted to make a move on the last lap and crashed again, but my speed was really good, and second overall in the championship was the goal when we came here after a tough season, so I am very happy that we could achieve that. I hope we can continue like this in 2022.”

Maxime Renaux

2nd MX2 Grand Prix of Citta di Mantova Winner, 45-points

2021 MX2 World Champion

“I am happy to finish the season with a race win and second overall. It was a nice end to a really nice season, really consistent and even after grabbing the title, I was able to show my place and show that I am still here to win. It was really nice, and I am very grateful for everyone around me. I want to say thanks to my team and to Yamaha for giving me everything and the best opportunity to fight for the title, which is what we did. It was a perfect season!”

MX Sports Pro Racing Unveils Schedule for
50th Anniversary of Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship

Memorial Day and Labor Day Holiday Weekends Bookend 2022 Season

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (November 8, 2021) – MX Sports Pro Racing has unveiled the 12-round schedule for the landmark 50th Anniversary of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. The 2022 “Golden Season” of the world’s most prestigious off-road motorcycle racing series will kick off and conclude during the holiday weekends that signify the proverbial beginning and end of summer, starting with Memorial Day, in May, and finishing over Labor Day, in September.

“This is arguably the most significant season in the history of American motocross,” said Davey Coombs, President of MX Sports Pro Racing. “If we’ve learned anything over the past two years it’s that nothing is given, but through so much uncertainty our sport has continued to bring joy, excitement, and compelling drama to those who share in the passion for motorsports. With our 50th Anniversary upon us, we hope to begin what feels like a new era and a fresh start of sorts for the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. One that will see a return to fan-filled paddocks and the kind of up-close-and-personal atmosphere that has allowed our sport to stand alone in terms of accessibility.”Unveiling the 50th Anniversary Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship Schedule

The 12-round championship will once again travel to 10 different states on its journey to crown a pair of AMA National Champions, extending the legacies of the world’s most storied venues into the series’ fifth decade. The battle for the Edison Dye and Gary Jones Cups will begin in a familiar place, on May 28, from the heart of the industry in Southern California for the Fox Raceway I National.
 
The first month of the season will also feature the iconic Hangtown Motocross Classic, on June 4, in Northern California, followed by the annual mile-high visit to Colorado on June 11 for the Thunder Valley National. The sport’s Father’s Day tradition at the High Point National will signify the first East Coast round on June 18 in Pennsylvania.
 
After the first of two breaks in action over the course of the season, the world’s fastest riders will return to the track on July 2 for one of the biggest Independence Day traditions in all of sports, the RedBud National in Michigan. The halfway point of the 2022 season will descend on the famed sands of Massachusetts’ The Wick 338 for the Southwick National, on July 9, while the second half of the championship gets underway on July 16 in Minnesota with the Spring Creek National. A second foursome of events will conclude with a return west on July 23, where the scenic Pacific Northwest is home to the Washougal National.
 
The championship’s final break in action will precede a four-round stretch run to end the season, beginning on August 13 with New York’s legendary Unadilla National. A trip just outside the nation’s capital awaits on August 20 with the Budds Creek National in Southern Maryland, followed by the penultimate round on August 27 in motorsports-crazed Indiana for the Ironman National. The summer will draw to a close where it began, in Southern California, on September 3 with the Fox Raceway II National.The season will begin and end in the heart of the motocross industry
of Southern California, from Fox Raceway at Pala.
Photo: Align MediaFollowing a historic season in which international riders captured both the 450 Class and 250 Class titles for the first time, France’s Dylan Ferrandis and Australia’s Jett Lawrence will lead the way into the 50th Anniversary campaign as defending champions. This charismatic duo are two leaders amongst an unprecedented depth of talent currently competing in American motocross, which sets the stage for what is poised to be a memorable summer befitting of such a landmark season.

“For five decades we’ve had the privilege of watching the world’s finest motocross talent do battle in the sport’s most coveted championship series right here on American soil,” added Coombs. “The record books of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship represents a who’s who of off-road motorcycle racing and tells the story of the pioneering legacy of the riders, manufacturers, and racetracks that helped make the United States the epicenter for both amateur and professional motocross. We cannot wait to see what the next 50 years have in store.”For information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please visit ProMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the Pro Motocross social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:

• Facebook: @americanmotocross
• Instagram: @promotocross
• Twitter: @ProMotocross
• YouTube: AmericanMotocross

Now available for download for both Apple and Android devices is the official Pro Motocross App. Fans of American motocross can have access to the world’s most prestigious off-road motorcycle racing series right at their fingertips on their mobile devices. Developed by AMA Pro Racing, the Pro Motocross App provides users with the most important information surrounding the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, from series news to schedule and ticket information, as well as broadcast schedule details and live timing & scoring. Download it now via the App Store or Google Play.
###Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship
The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, features the world’s fastest outdoor motocross racers, competing aboard homologated bikes from one of seven competing manufacturers on a collection of the roughest, toughest tracks on the planet. Racing takes place each Saturday afternoon, with competition divided into two classes: one for 250cc machines, and one for 450cc machines. MX Sports Pro Racing, the industry leader in off-road powersports event production, manages the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. The title sponsor is Lucas Oil, a leading producer of premium oils, greases, and problem solving additives, all made in America. More information can be found at www.ProMotocross.com.Lucas Oil Products, Inc.
Lucas Oil Products was founded by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas with the simple philosophy of producing only the best line of lubricants and additives available anywhere. Since its inception, Lucas has steadfastly adhered to this corporate objective. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas has established itself as the top selling additive line in the United States. Additionally, Lucas Oil offers a premium line of motor oils, greases, fuel treatments, industrial lubricants, and problem-solving additives to help firmly establish Lucas Oil as a prominent figure in the marketplace. For more information, visit www.LucasOil.com.

Yamaha Youngsters Enjoy Epic 2021 bLU cRU Masterclass!

The 34 motocross and road racing youngsters enjoyed an incredible 2021 bLU cRU Masterclass in Spain, as they got to experience world class and exclusive coaching from the bLU cRU Ambassadors, with all impressing across the two days of on-track action.

This year’s Masterclass took place just outside of Barcelona, with the 21 road racing talents heading to the Alcarràs circuit, while the 13 motocross youngsters made their mark at the technical MX El Terrè Almenar track.

Before the two days of running started, all of the riders convened in the Alcarràs paddock, where they got their first chance to meet the bLU cRU Ambassadors: FIM Superbike World Championship rider Andrea Locatelli, Yamaha Rider Coach and FIM EWC racer Niccolò Canepa, MXGP Grand Prix winner Brian Jorgensen, and bLU cRU and FIM Supersport World Championship rider Unai Orradre, as well as 2021 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup title-winner Iker Garcia Abella.

That evening the youngsters took to the pit lane for a group photo, before Yamaha Motor Europe bLU cRU Racing Manager Alberto Barozzi gave an official welcome presentation, introducing the Masterclass, the bLU cRU spirit and reinforcing Yamaha’s KANDO philosophy, with the riders also receiving a Media Briefing.

Thursday saw the youngsters get their first chance to showcase their talents in front of the bLU cRU Ambassadors. In Almenar, Jorgensen guided the 13 YZ125, YZ85 and YZ65 riders around the track, before going through the importance of training and warming up. After completing their first laps of the circuit, Jorgensen then focused on their braking, turning and corner exit, as well as how to improve their starts.

For the road racing youngsters, after a track walk led by the bLU cRU Ambassadors and warm up exercise, the riders took to the track, while Canepa, Locatelli and Orradre kept a close eye on their lines and technique. That afternoon the trio, alongside Garcia Abella, joined the riders out on track, following them to further aid their assessments. Following the sessions, Canepa and Locatelli taught the R3 Masterclass riders how to properly analyse data.

At the end of the day, all of the riders were tasked with giving mock interviews, where they discussed how they felt on the bike, where they could improve, and what they thought of the day overall.

More track running and training kicked off Friday, with the Masterclass youngsters applying what they had learned from the previous day to further improve their speed and consistency.

The event ended with the Prize Giving Ceremony, where the riders were recognised for their efforts, which impressed the entire Yamaha staff and bLU cRU Ambassadors. The YZ Cup winners, who will receive a supported ride in the 2022 EMX Championships, will be announced on 15 November, while two supported spots on the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup are up for grabs for the most impressive road racing riders.

Alberto Barozzi

Yamaha Motor Europe bLU cRU Racing Manager

“The 2021 bLU cRU Masterclass was an amazing event. What has impressed me most about our young riders has been their mood, their attitude and their drive to learn as much as possible over these three days. They obviously want to follow their dream and they had a lot of great moments with our bLU cRU Ambassadors, which I’m sure will stay with them long into the future. I want to say a huge thanks to everyone who made this incredible Masterclass possible, all of the organisers, Ambassadors, mechanics, riders and of course the parents, who I think also really enjoyed this event. A special thanks to my colleagues, JiR Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup Organizer Gianluca Montiron and Yamaha Spain’s Andreu Aguila, who helped a lot with absolutely everything. We will have a very good memory of this great event, and now we look forward to deciding and announcing the winners.”

Niccolò Canepa

bLU cRU Ambassador (Road Racing)

“It has been great to be here at the 2021 Masterclass. It’s a great opportunity for the riders to race next year in the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup, but also to ride with me, Locatelli and the other Ambassadors at the same time on tack. I think we had some really promising talents at this edition of the Masterclass. Everyone was very committed to learning and improving, and now we will take the time to see who we think should earn a supported ride for next year.”

Brian Jorgensen

bLU cRU Ambassador (MX)

“The Masterclass this year has been really, really good. We’ve been working on the technical aspect of the riders, which is very important. These young riders are the future of this sport, and for them to be learning all of this now is something that I hope can take them to the next level. We’ve been very lucky with the weather, it’s been a little bit chilly, but it has stayed dry and the track has been perfect. I think everyone had an incredible experience, and we had a good overall package, not just focusing on track but also with other aspects like the interview training, which can really help with their communication. It’s been a pleasure to work with these young riders, who could one day be future champions.”

Andrea Locatelli

bLU cRU Ambassador (Road Racing)

“I’m so happy to have been an Ambassador at the Masterclass. It was my first one, and I was really proud of all of the kids. Every day and every session they approved a lot, they came to me to ask questions and I could help them to improve a little bit on the bike and also for the future. It’s great that Yamaha focuses on helping the young riders, giving them the opportunity to go to the European Cup, and then to compete in the WorldSSP300. Thank you to Niccolò, Alberto and everyone who made this event so special.”

Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP Press release

Trois points d’avance pour Romain Febvre avant la finale MXGP

Romain Febvre a porté son avance d’un à trois points avant la finale du championnat du Monde FIM de Motocross, qui se disputera mercredi sur ce même circuit de Mantova. Pour la seconde fois de rang, sa Monster Energy Kawasaki portera donc la plaque rouge de leader du Mondial.

Romain se qualifiait en seconde position, au terme d’un superbe tour qu’il bouclait à trois dixièmes de la pole position. Bien placé derrière la grille il virait en seconde position au départ de la première manche, avant de passer en tête de la course dans le premier tour. Profitant de la piste libre devant lui il portait son avance à six secondes après dix minutes, et gérait ensuite cet avantage jusqu’au baisser du drapeau, sans prendre le moindre risque sur la piste. Sa KX450-SR allait une fois encore répondre à ses sollicitations au second départ, Romain virant cette fois en troisième position ; il lui faudra plusieurs tours avant d’accéder à la seconde place, le leader étant alors hors de portée. Réduisant l’écart avec lui, Romain allait finalement assurer sa seconde place, partageant les points avec le vainqueur du jour mais portant son avance au championnat à trois unités.

De plus en plus à l’aise dans sa nouvelle cylindrée, Mathys Boisrame abordait confiant son quatrième GP au sein du Kawasaki Racing Team. Qualifié en onzième position il pointait sixième en début de première manche, accédant même temporairement à la cinquième place ; souffrant en fin de course de douleurs aux bras il allait franchir la ligne d’arrivée en neuvième position, à trois petites secondes du sixième. La seconde manche sera plus difficile puisqu’il se retrouvera trentième après deux virages ! Revenant rapidement quatorzième il sera victime d’une chute le retardant à nouveau ; revenu dans les points à mi course il allait être surpris quand sa roue avant se dérobait dans un appui mou, et devra se retirer peu après en raison de douleurs à l’épaule

Romain Febvre : « C’était définitivement une belle victoire en première manche. Je me sentais bien aujourd’hui sur la piste, même si elle est vraiment piégeuse en certains endroits, meuble en surface sur un sol dur. En première manche j’ai pris assez tôt la tête de la course, mais en roulant devant je n’étais pas sûr de prendre les meilleures trajectoires. Ce fut une course dure, j’ai un peu souffert à mi manche mais je me suis bien repris pour finir fort. J’ai de nouveau essayé de prendre un bon départ en seconde manche, et je n’ai pas voulu prendre de risques d’accrochage pour doubler Prado si bien que j’ai perdu du temps sur Jeffrey. J’ai réduit mon retard en faisant quelques tours rapides, mais il conservait trois ou quatre secondes d’avance et j’ai préféré assurer ma seconde place et garder la plaque rouge avant la finale. Cela peut sembler bizarre mais je ne ressens aucune pression. On réussit vraiment de bons départs dans le sable avec la KX450-SR si bien que je suis confiant pour mercredi. On est très proches et le meilleur gagnera ! »

Mathys Boisrame : « La catégorie MXGP est nouvelle pour moi, c’est dur mais j’aime bien et je me sens à l’aise sur la Kawasaki. J’ai eu un bon feeling avec la piste, et j’étais content de mon onzième temps aux essais. Le premier départ fut OK ; j’étais sixième et j’ai juste perdu quelques places en fin de course en raison de crampes aux bras, mais c’était une bonne course avec un bon départ et de bons chronos. Le second départ ne fut pas si bon, et j’ai chuté fort après quelques tours ; j’ai essayé de continuer mais mon épaule était douloureuse et je suis rentré au paddock pour aller passer des examens au centre médical ; il n’y a rien de cassé, j’ai maintenant deux jours pour récupérer avant le dernier GP. »

Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP would like to thank: Kawasaki, Monster Energy, Alpinestars, Motorex, Pro Circuit, Dunlop, Showa, Xtrig, Renthal, Vertex, Polisport, Hinson, Wagner meca, Braking, Kawasaki Apparel, D.I.D, Twin Air, NGK, Blackbird, Cometic, Antigravity batteries, Haan Wheels, Beta, CRM, Samco Sport, JTEKT, Ogio, Mechanix Wear, Matrix concepts, Mollar, Garage Tonon, Oakley, GoPro.

https://www.ffmoto.org/media/document/calendrier-ffm-2022

Benistant to miss Mantova Doubleheader

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2’s Thibault Benistant will not participate in the final two rounds of the FIM Motocross World Championship in Mantova, Italy, on Sunday 7 and Wednesday 10 November, after sustaining an injury to his left knee.

The decision to withdraw the 19-year-old Frenchman from the final two races of the season was taken by Yamaha in consultation with the team. Benistant will be assessed by a knee specialist in Lyon, France today, Wednesday 4th November. Once the full extent of the injury is understood, a program for his recovery and return to racing will be implemented.

Further updates will be shared on Yamaha Racing’s social media channels when information is available.

2021 Yamaha bLU cRU Masterclass All Set for Alcarrás

The entry list for the 2021 bLU cRU Masterclass, which will take place just outside of Barcelona, has been confirmed, with 21 road racing youngsters and 13 motocross riders hoping to showcase their talents at the Circuito d’Alcarrás (Road Racing) and Circuito MX El Terrè Almenar (Motocross) on 3-5 November.

For motocross, the podium finishers of the YZ125, YZ85, and YZ65 categories at the YZ bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup SuperFinale, which took place at the FIM Motocross of Nations in Mantova, were invited to the event, alongside two wildcards from each class. On the road racing side, riders aged 14-20 who performed strongly in the various bLU cRU Challenge and Cup series will be attending.

These youngsters will all benefit from exclusive coaching by the bLU cRU Ambassadors, including FIM Superbike World Championship rider Andrea Locatelli, Yamaha Rider Coach and Endurance World Championship racer Niccolò Canepa, and bLU cRU and FIM Supersport World Championship rider Unai Orradre. 2021 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup title-winner Iker Garcia Abella will also be there to share his experiences of the championship and bLU cRU program.

The YZ125 Masterclass category for the oldest riders consists of the top three from the YZ SuperFinale, winner Adrien Petit from France, runner-up Victor Puig from Spain, and Sweden’s Hugo Forsgren, while Italian rider Maurizio Scollo, who finished fifth, will also attend as a wildcard.

Riders from the YZ85 include Denmark’s Frederik Rahn Stampe, who finished second at the YZ SuperFinale, with third-place finisher Noe Zumstein from Switzerland also attending. Wildcard entries for this class include Belgium’s Emile De Baere and Italy’s Cesar Paine Diaz, who both finished inside the top five in Mantova, as well as Swedish youngster Elias Nyström.

Representing the youngest riders, the YZ65 participants consists of YZ SuperFinale runner-up Dani Tsankov of Bulgaria, Denmark’s Bertram Thorius, Finland’s Jimi Marttila, and French rider Tylan Lagain.

The winners from each of these classes will earn a spot in the EMX125, EMX85 and EMX65 championships for 2022, supported by Yamaha Motor Europe.

For the R3 entries at the Masterclass, nine countries are represented and the overall winner will receive a supported season in the 2022 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup, which supports selected European rounds of the WorldSBK championship.

From Spain, Alvaro Diaz, who raced in the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship with bLU cRU support in 2019, will join this year’s Masterclass, following his bLU cRU Challenge victory this year. Fellow front-runners Yerai Ruiz and Carlos Giménez will also attend, alongside 15-year-old Dyron Morillas.

Five Italians will head to Alcarrás, including the top three national bLU cRU Cup riders, Emilio Ercolani, Diego Palladino and Federico Iacoi. CIV Supersport 300 champion Matteo Vannucci, who impressed on his wildcard Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup outing at Misano this year, will also ride, alongside wildcard Andrea Pizzoli.

German riders Michel-Caspar Wieth and Albert Prasse, who at 14 is the youngest entrant, are joined by Swiss youngster Fabio Sarasino, while Sarah Göpfert enters as a wildcard.

The Netherlands has three riders involved this year: Bryan Cohen and Senna van den Hoven, who contested the Benelux bLU cRU Challenge this year, as well as IDM Supersport 300 racer Luuk de Ruiter. Fellow IDM racers, Denmark’s Oliver Svendsen and Sweden’s Mia Rusthen, as well as Martin Eriksen, represent the Scandinavian Challenge runners.

French bLU cRU Challenge rider Loris Chaidron and Brazilian bLU cRU Cup racer Eduardo Burr, who contested the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup this year, both complete the 21-strong rider line-up.

Alongside the bLU cRU Ambassadors, former MotoGP racer Alex de Angelis, 2013 Moto3 World Champion and 2018 WorldSSP title winner Sandro Cortese, and ex-Grand Prix rider Joey Litjens will be at the Masterclass to support their local distributers.  

  MXGP 

Tuesday, 2nd November 2021

Ruben Fernandez steps up to the MXGP class for final two MXGP rounds

   Fresh off three MX2 podium performances in Trentino, Honda 114 Motorsports rider Ruben Fernandez will switch his Honda CRF250R for a CRF450R and ride in the MXGP class at the final two rounds of the 2021 season. 

After a season where Fernandez has progressed a lot under the tutelage of Livia Lancelot, it is just reward for the Spaniard who held the MX2 red-plate earlier in the year and who has shown that when he is fit and healthy, he can battle with the fastest 250 riders in the world.

The final two races take place in Mantova, Italy, where Fernandez will continue pitting under the 114 Motorsports awning, to minimise the pressure that debuting in this extremely competitive MXGP already brings. He will be alongside Canadian Dylan Wright who has shown excellent speed since he came to Europe in October, as the pair hope to impress all the Italian fans who will be present for this intense finale.

With Fernandez able to ride in MX2 again next year, these two races will just be an opportunity for him to showcase his talent and see where he stacks up and give him a little bit of experience before he has to make the full-time switch to MXGP in 2023.

Ruben Fernandez ⁷⁰ Honda 114 Motorsports I’m extremely excited for this opportunity to ride the CRF450R for these final two rounds. It is a great chance for me to just go out and enjoy myself at two races without too much pressure on my results. It is a very tough class right now, but I just want to ride well in four motos and show people that I am capable of riding the Honda CRF450R as well as I’ve been riding the CRF250R recently. It’s been two years since I’ve ridden a 450 and I will only have a few days of preparation and testing but I will do my best. It would have been great to have had more seat-time to get ready, however these past three rounds in Trentino have given me a lot of confidence and I can’t wait to get to Mantova next weekend. A big thanks to everyone who has helped me get to this point in my career and who has given me this opportunity next weekend!

http://link.ffmoto.info/T/OFSYS/SM3/1460/2/S/F/17265501/2967130/ScMOqUEY.html

Communiqué de presse

À Paris, le 31 octobre 2021

MAXIME RENAUX CHAMPION DU MONDE DE MOTOCROSS MX2

Un Français peut en cacher un autre. Dans l’aspiration du titre mondial de Fabio Quartararo en MotoGP il y a une semaine, Maxime Renaux est devenu ce dimanche 31 octobre en Italie Champion du Monde de Motocross en MX2. A 21 ans, Maxime devient le 6^ème pilote tricolore à s’imposer dans cette catégorie réservée aux moins de 23 ans. 

Un exemple d’opiniâtreté
Repéré par la Fédération Française de Motocyclisme en 2012 et intégré au Collectif 85cc lorsqu’il décroche le titre national en Minivert, le natif de Sedan rejoint dès la saison suivante le collectif 125cc puis l’Equipe de France 125cc en 2015. Sa progression est fulgurante au sein de la filière fédérale. Cette même année, il inscrit son nom au palmarès du Championnat de France Junior 125cc, du Championnat du Monde Junior 125cc et termine 3^ème de l’Europe 125cc. Malheureusement, les années se suivent mais ne se ressemblent pas. Sa trajectoire ascendante est stoppée nette pendant 3 saisons sur blessures. Un temps qu’il met à profit pour poursuivre avec succès ses études. L’année 2019 est celle du renouveau. Sa première saison complète en Championnat du Monde de Motocross MX2 se conclut à une 7^ème place finale. Il est également sélectionné par la FFM en Equipe de France pour disputer pour la première fois le Motocross des Nations (5^ème). En 2020, le pilote Yamaha passe un cap supplémentaire et s’offre sa première victoire de manche et le premier Grand Prix de sa carrière pour terminer 3^ème du classement final MX2.

Sébastien Poirier, Président de la Fédération Française de Motoyclisme : « Maxime est un pilote que nous connaissons bien à la Fédération puisqu’il a été formé sur nos Championnats Nationaux et a été accompagné dès son plus jeune âge par notre filière du Haut niveau. En succédant à Tom Vialle, ce nouveau titre mondial récompense tout un parcours et fait rayonner la discipline Motocross en France qui représente plus de 60% de nos licenciés. Maxime est un modèle d’obstination et d’exemplarité. Un grand bravo à lui ! »

Crédit photos : Yamaha Racing.

Fédération Française de Motocyclisme

Maxime Renaux Crowned MX2 World Champion after Stunning Grand Prix of Garda Victory 

Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2’s Maxime Renaux has been crowned 2021 MX2 World Champion at the 16th round of the FIM Motocross World Championship in Pietramurata, Italy, after celebrating a phenomenal Grand Prix win with a thrilling race victory – his eighth of the season. 

An incredible 12 podiums from 16 rounds, eight race wins, five Grand Prix wins and 20 top-three finishes are some of the highlights from Renaux’s 2021 title campaign. The 21-year-old Frenchman secured the 2021 MX2 world title by beating his only remaining championship rivals, Tom Vialle and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 teammate Jago Geerts, in both races at the MXGP of Garda today. His world title success comes as a first for Yamaha in MX2 since Antonio Cairoli in 2007. 

Renaux got off to a top-five start in the opening race and powered his YZ250FM past the defending World Champion Vialle to move into fourth position on lap one. A few turns later, the young gun inherited second from the two riders in front of him, Geerts and Bastien Boegh-Damm, as they collided and crashed spectacularly. Demonstrating incredible race maturity, the French sensation kept his lap-times fast and consistent as he raced to a sensational second-place finish. 

Going into the final race of the weekend, Renaux had a comfortable 101-point lead over Geerts in the MX2 Championship Standings. All he had to do was beat his teammate and finish within six points of Vialle to take the crown. When the gates eventually fell, the tension that had built up prior to the race was certainly felt as the championship leader challenged Vialle for the top spot. After proving he was the fastest rider on track by setting the quickest lap of the race, the ‘959’ successfully made a pass on lap five and stormed to an emphatic race victory. 

At the same time, a dramatic Grand Prix saw Geerts crash spectacularly out of third position on the first lap of race one when another rider jumped across the track and struck him mid-air. From there, the ‘93’ remounted his YZ250FM and put in a valiant charge through the pack from last position back to 13th, as the third of the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 trio Thibault Benistant fought back from a 10th place start to finish sixth. 

In the final race, Geerts experienced an unusual technical issue and had to withdraw, as Benistant battled for seventh. 

After a fantastic display of speed and skill at the MXGP of Garda, the newly crowned MX2 World Champion, Renaux, celebrated a successful 2021 title campaign in the best way possible, from the top step of the podium. 

With two rounds remaining in the FIM Motocross World Championship, Renaux is uncatchable at the top. 

Benistant missed the top-five by a mere 3-points. He was sixth in the overall classification and is currently seventh in the MX2 Championship Standings. At the same time, Geerts finished 17th overall and will head into the final two rounds of the MXGP series, third in the points, 16 shy of Vialle.  

The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team now heads 128 kilometers south of Pietramurata, Italy, to Mantova where they will contest the final two rounds of the FIM Motocross World Championship on Sunday 7th and Wednesday 10th November.

For full results from the MX2 Grand Prix of Garda, click here.

Maxime Renaux

2021 MX2 World Champion, 642-points

MX2 Grand Prix of Garda winner, 47-points

“This means a lot to me. We made it! We are the World Champions in 2021 in MX2, so that is a great achievement. We had to work hard for that over the past years, and even the past few rounds here have been tough for me, very up and down, but we were able to bounce back today. I am so happy to get the world title with a race win and the GP win, which means a lot to me. It’s always something you want to grab with a win. It was an amazing day for me. I will never forget this for sure!”

Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP Press release

Romain Febvre leader du Mondial MXGP a deux GP du terme
Avant les deux dernières épreuves du championnat du Monde MXGP de Motocross, Romain Febvre vient de s’emparer du leadership au guidon de sa KX450-SR du Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team.

Avec seulement trois points séparant les trois premiers pilotes du championnat MXGP avant les trois dernières épreuves, l’atmosphère était assez électrique du côté de Pietramurata, au pied des Dolomites Italiennes, ou se disputait le troisième et dernier GP en l’espace d’une semaine sur cette piste. Quatrième temps chrono aux essais ou il bouclait trois tours dans la même demie seconde que la pôle position, Romain pouvait choisir sa place derrière la grille afin d’éviter tout risque d’accrochage au premier virage. Virant en sixième position entre ses deux rivaux dans la course au titre, ils allaient dans un premier temps s’observer avant que Romain ne porte une première attaque ; échangeant de position une demie douzaine de fois avec le pilote le précédant Romain finissait par prendre définitivement l’avantage et se détachait de ses rivaux directs pour s’emparer de la seconde place à mi course. Se forgeant une avance d’une douzaine de secondes sur le troisième il allait dans le même temps réduire son retard sur le leader qu’il avait en vue à l’entame du dernier tour ; à l’attaque, Romain se fera piéger à l’appel d’un saut et finira dans les barrières bordant la piste ! Fort des vingt deux secondes d’avance qu’il possédait sur le troisième il repartait sans perdre de place, franchissant l’arrivée en seconde position. Au second départ il sortait du second virage hors du top dix, mais signait un éblouissant premier tour l’amenant en sixième position ; pendant plusieurs tours la bagarre faisait rage, avant que Romain ne s’impose en troisième position. Les deux leaders avaient creusé l’écart, profitant d’une piste libre, et plutôt que de tenter à tout prix de les rejoindre Romain assurait sa troisième place sachant que celle ci lui permettait également de s’emparer de la plaque rouge de leader du championnat avant les deux derniers GP qui se disputeront dimanche prochain puis le mercredi suivant sur la piste de Mantova, distante de 135 kilomètres. Trois points séparent toujours les trois premiers du championnat, mais cette fois c’est la Kawasaki qui est aux commandes !

Mathys Boisrame commençait bien sa journée en signant le onzième temps chrono, mais sa première manche allait être très vite compromise quand un autre pilote le percutait à la fin de la section de vagues, endommageant sa moto. Bien qu’handicapé Mathys faisait le choix de poursuivre la course, revenant en vingt quatrième position dans le même tour que les leaders jusqu’à ce qu’il s’écarte pour ne pas perturber leur course en fin de manche. Auteur d’un meilleur départ en seconde manche il allait longtemps occuper la neuvième place, avant de perdre deux positions en fin de course pour se classer onzième.

Romain Febvre : « On a travaillé encore sur les départs cette semaine et mon premier départ fut bon, pas le second. Mais j’avais un bon feeling aujourd’hui et j’ai pu faire quelques bons dépassements pour revenir second de la première manche ; Jeremy (Seewer) roulait bien en tête mais à deux tours de l’arrivée j’ai vu que je revenais sur lui ; on avait creusé l’écart, je savais que même si je faisais une faute j’avais la seconde place en poche. Malheureusement dans le dernier tour j’ai eu un assez gros crash, sans conséquence ; je suis tombé assez fort, mais sans me faire mal. Mon départ en seconde manche n’a pas été aussi bon, mais dans le premier tour j’ai réussi à doubler huit pilotes, puis à revenir troisième. Quand Jeremy qui était second a fait une faute, j’ai alors commencé à trop penser – est ce que j’essaye de le doubler pour gagner le GP, ou est-ce que je reste tranquille pour prendre la place rouge ? – et au final j’ai perdu mon rythme. Ça fait du bien de prendre la plaque rouge alors qu’il reste deux GP ; je ne ressens aucune pression, je prends les choses comme elles viennent. Cela fait quelques années que je n’ai pas été aussi bien placé et que nous sommes aussi proches au championnat, trois pilotes en trois points. C’est bien d’être ou je suis mais à la fin il n’y en a qu’un qui sera champion et deux seront déçus. Pour ma part si je tombe je tombe, ce qui est sûr c’est que je donnerais tout et espérons que cela suffira. Je peux sentir le gout du championnat. »

Mathys Boisrame : « Bien sûr je suis toujours en phase d’apprentissage de ma nouvelle catégorie ; depuis Arco 2 on a encore changé des choses sur la moto pour l’adapter à mon pilotage et j’ai fait une bonne séance qualificative avec une onzième place. Mon premier départ n’a pas été très bon et à la fin des vagues un autre pilote m’a percuté ; la moto était endommagée mais j’ai tenu à continuer même si j’étais hors des points, pour gagner de l’expérience en piste. Mon second départ fut bien meilleur, et j’ai pris un bon rythme pour me classer onzième. Je suis content de mon pilotage, physiquement ce ne fut pas simple de faire trois courses en une semaine sur une nouvelle moto mais je suis content de ma progression et impatient d’être à Mantova. »

Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP would like to thank: Kawasaki, Monster Energy, Alpinestars, Motorex, Pro Circuit, Dunlop, Showa, Xtrig, Renthal, Vertex, Polisport, Hinson, Wagner meca, Braking, Kawasaki Apparel, D.I.D, Twin Air, NGK, Blackbird, Cometic, Antigravity batteries, Haan Wheels, Beta, CRM, Samco Sport, JTEKT, Ogio, Mechanix Wear, Matrix concepts, Mollar, Garage Tonon, Oakley, GoPro. 

Reisulis Takes GYTR Kitted YZ125 to Sensational Second Overall

Yamaha celebrated another successful day of racing in Pietramurata, Italy, with the venue hosting round eight of the EMX250 and EMX125 Championships. MJC Yamaha Official EMX125’s Karlis Reisulis took his GYTR kitted YZ125 to two top-three race finishes for second overall – he was second in race one and third in race two. Hutten Metaal Yamaha Official EMX250’s rookie sensation Andrea Bonacorsi started the day with a thrilling race win, but after crashes spoiled the final race, he was classified fourth overall. At the same time, Riley Yamaha Racing’s Hakon Fredriksen took his YZ250F to the third step of the EMX250 podium, while teammate Cornelius Toendel rounded out the top-five. 

After qualifying in second position, Bonacorsi was nothing short of sensational in the opening EMX250 race as he attacked the familiar ‘Arco di Trento’ circuit with the confidence of a true champion. The 18-year-old Italian defended a solid charge from one of the most experienced EMX250 riders in the class, Kevin Horgmo, and led all 16 laps for an emphatic race win – the second of his budding career. Teammate Jeremy Sydow put in a smooth and consistent ride for seventh.  

Bonacorsi ended the first lap in 32nd position in the second race of the day after colliding with another rider on one of the steep inclines. Desperate to collect as many points as possible, the ‘35’ impressed as he blitzed his way through the field to finish inside the top-10. He was 10th, which meant he narrowly missed a fourth consecutive podium finish by a mere 2-points. He was fourth overall.

Fredriksen uncorked a second bottle of podium champagne in 2021 after going 5-2 in the two points-paying races. At the same time, Hutten Metaal Yamaha Official EMX250’s Jeremy Sydow celebrated a season-best sixth overall.  

With two rounds remaining in the 2021 EMX250 Championship, Bonacorsi remains fifth in the standings, only 1-point shy of Liam Everts in fourth. Fredriksen and Toendel are sixth and seventh, respectively, while after missing four rounds through injury, Sydow has moved up to 13th. 

The final two rounds will take place on Saturday 6th and Tuesday 9th November, in Mantova, Italy. 

The MJC Yamaha Official EMX125 team returned to the hard-packed, tight and compact Ciclamino circuit for the third of three back-to-back races and the penultimate round of the EMX125 Championship. Once again, all three GYTR kitted YZ125 riders were lightning quick in Timed Practice. Ferruccio Zanchi posted the second fastest lap in Group 1 with a 1’46.251, while Karlis Reisulis went pole with a 1’45.495 lap in Group 2, marginally quicker than van Erp who ended the session in second position with a time of 1’45.770.

A frantic start to the opening EMX125 race saw two-thirds of the MJC Yamaha Official EMX125 trio go down. After setting the fastest lap in qualifying, Reisulis showed incredible speed and precision as he charged from a ninth-place start to a season-best second-place finish. 

After crashing at turn-one with Romeo Karu and his teammate Van Erp, Zanchi put in a spirited charge from the back of the pack to finish 11th, while van Erp salvaged 5-points for 16th after he recovered from another spectacular crash on lap-4.

Bouncing back from the drama of race one, van Erp powered his YZ125 to a solid top-three start. Determined to keep the race one winner, Lucas Coenen, in his sights, the young Dutchman ran a hot pace in second-position for 20-minutes before sliding out on a left-hand turn. Fortunately, the ‘432’ had built up a decent buffer over Reisulis, in third, which allowed him to keep the position to the flag.

Reisulis put in another awe-inspiring charge through the pack to finish inside the top-three for the second time in his career. As a result, the 16-year-old Latvian raised his first-ever podium trophy on the second step of the box. 

Meanwhile, two mediocre starts proved costly for MJC Yamaha’s youngest rider, Zanchi. Another challenging start in race two, left the 15-year-old Italian brawling through the pack in the final race of the day. With limited traction and line-choice, the ‘73’ fought hard to finish 10th. 

After a day of mixed results, van Erp was classified eighth overall, while Zanchi rounded out the top-10.

The MJC Yamaha Official EMX125 team will now travel 128 kilometers south of Pietramurata for the final round of the EMX125 Championship on Tuesday 9th November in Mantova, Italy. All three riders are inside the top-10 in the championship standings. Van Erp is fifth, Reisulis is seventh and Zanchi is ninth.

For full results from the EMX round Garda, click here.

Karlis Reisulis

2nd EMX125 Round of Garda, 42-points

7th EMX125 Championship, 170-points

“I don’t have any words because first time on the podium is just an amazing feeling. I had an amazing day, and finally, some good starts, which was the missing piece for me at the previous rounds. Two decent starts today and two solid motos to finish on the second step of the podium. I am really really happy!”

COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE

A Paris, le 22 octobre 2021.

LA FFM RACHÈTE LE CIRCUIT DE MOTOCROSS DE NÉCY (61)La FFM s’est portée acquéreur auprès de la ville de Falaise d’un terrain de motocross situé à Nécy (61).

Les équipes du Moto-Club ESF (Animation Motocycliste Falaisienne) conserveront la gestion et l’animation de ce site de près de cinq hectaresqui comprend également du bâti.

A noter également que le Moto-Club ESF organise tous les ans une épreuve du Championnat de Ligue de Normandie de motocross et possède une école moto à destination des jeunes.

La FFM est propriétaire à ce jour de 15 sites de pratique depuis le début de sa politique de sauvegarde en 2010.

(photo : DR)

22 OCTOBER 2021

End of season for Roan van de Moosdijk

Forced to retire last week in Spain with a painful wrist Roan van de Moosdijk must unfortunately to end his season and will miss the remaining rounds of the 2021 FIM MX2 Motocross World Championship.

AARON PLESSINGER JOINS RED BULL KTM FACTORY RACING TEAM FOR 2022-2023 RACE SEASONS

October 20, 2021

MURRIETA, Calif. – The Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team is pleased to announce the signing of fan favorite Aaron Plessinger to race aboard the KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION in the AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross Championships. Upon inking a two-year deal, Plessinger will remain with the team through the 2023 season with his much-anticipated debut taking place at the Anaheim SX opener on Saturday, January 8 in Anaheim, California. Plessinger enjoyed a successful run in the 250 cc division, including a 250MX Championship in 2018 and countless race-wins in both series. Since moving into the premier 450 cc division in 2019, the 25-year-old has slated numerous top-10 finishes, along with one career top-five, and he is READY TO RACE onto the podium with an all-new program behind him in 2022. Training with world-renown SX/MX trainer Aldon Baker at the elite Baker’s Factory compound in Florida, Plessinger will also work alongside mechanic Jade Dungey, who re-joins the Red Bull KTM squad for his first season together with AP.

Aaron Plessinger:“I’m really excited for the opportunity to join Red Bull KTM and work alongside everyone associated with the factory team effort. To be honest, I’m pretty excited to bring a new vibe to the team. I rode KTMs a lot as a kid, so I’m looking forward to getting back to my roots and having some fun but this time on the KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION. Getting to train at Baker’s Factory with Aldon Baker, who has helped shape the careers of many champions over the years, is an opportunity I didn’t want to pass up. Hopefully I can push my fitness to new limits and better hone in my racing techniques by training alongside all the other top riders there.”

Ian Harrison – Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager:“Aaron’s depth of talent has been on our radar for years but he has really come into his own more recently and lucky for us, during a time when we were in a position to bring him on-board for 2022. We were excited that during contract negotiations, he expressed interest in being a part of the full training program – a program we have worked very hard on for many years – and felt he would really benefit from it at this stage in his career. The gains he has already made not just on the KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION, but also meshing with the team and his mechanic, Jade Dungey, should keep the crew smiling, and on their toes, year-round. Aaron is a real character and a welcomed addition to our 2022 rider lineup.” The 2022 AMA Supercross Championship kicks off on Saturday, January 8 in Anaheim, California. For more information on KTM and its riders, please visit www.ktm.com/us.

Brad Freeman Crowned 2021 FIM EnduroGP World ChampionBeta’s Brad Freeman has been crowned the 2021 FIM EnduroGP World Champion at the sixth and final round of the championship in France. Doing it in style, Freeman raced to victory on day two in Langeac to secure the EnduroGP title.

Adding the EnduroGP title to the Enduro3 crown he claimed on day one, day two was a memorable one for Brad Freeman (Beta) ©Future7Media

Further cementing her status as one of motorcycling’s greatest ever competitors, Laia Sanz (GASGAS) won her sixth FIM Enduro Women World Championship with victory on Sunday. She adds this title to her 14th FIM Trial World Championship, won last month. A new world champion also emerged today with TM’s Matteo Pavoni taking the Enduro Junior title.

EnduroGP – Freeman Claims Title

With the majority of the senior enduro titles won on Saturday, the talking point for Sunday was about who would end the day as the FIM EnduroGP World Champion. With a 16-point lead over his closest rival, Brad Freeman held the upper hand and was determined to see things through.

After a steady start on the opening ACERBIS Cross Test to settle his nerves, Freeman pulled the pin thereafter to top the following CHAMPION Enduro Test and NERVE by JUST1 Extreme Test to take up the lead. Clearly focused on clinching the title with a win, he built up a healthy 20-second lead with two tests to go.

Remaining trouble free, Freeman ended his day as the race winner, but more importantly, the new FIM EnduroGP World Champion. Adding to his Enduro3 crown from Saturday, the British rider is now a seven-time FIM Enduro World Champion.

“I wanted to go for the win today to take the title,” told Freeman. “I knew ninth place would be enough to get the job done, but that’s not my style or how I like to ride, so I just went for it. »

“With two tests to go I had a good lead and then rode it home. I’m so happy with this year and how it’s gone. I feel like there’s a massive weight lifted off my shoulders now. I’m the EnduroGP World Champion and that’s an awesome feeling!”

While Freeman had control over the race lead, behind him positions were changing. Steve Holcombe (Beta) was on form, winning the opening ACERBIS Cross Test and sitting in second after the fourth test. Also enjoying a great GP of France, Jaume Betriu (KTM) moved up to second after test five. Newly crowned Enduro1 champion Andrea Verona (GASGAS) was next to slot into second at the end of test six, a position he would hold until the end.

After a slow start, day one winner Josep Garcia (KTM) spent his day racing his way into contention to grab the final step of the podium from Betriu on the final special test. Although denied an EnduroGP podium, Betriu could still be pleased with his efforts in fourth, while Holcombe was close behind in fifth.

With Freeman crowned the EnduroGP champion, Garcia finished the championship in second, with Verona completing the top three.

Laia Sanz (GASGAS, Enduro Women), Andrea Verona (GASGAS, Enduro1), Brad Freeman (Beta, Enduro3 & EnduroGP), Josep Garcia (KTM, Enduro2), Matteo Pavoni (TM, Enduro Junior), and Albin Norrbin (Fantic, Enduro Youth) are your 2021 Enduro World Champions ©Future7Media

Enduro1 – Verona Signs Off Season With A Win

With the Enduro1 title already wrapped up on Saturday, newly crowned champ Verona convincingly won the category for the 10th time this year. Fantic’s Davide Guarneri took second. Antoine Magain (Sherco) edged out TM’s Matteo Cavallo by six seconds to claim third, while Davide Soreca (Husqvarna) completed the top five.

Enduro2 – Garcia Victorious

The fight for the final Enduro2 victory of the season was a close one. Holcombe started out in a determined mood and led for the majority of the day. After special test six of nine, 2021 Enduro2 champion Garcia had managed to reel Holcombe back in and with momentum growing worked his way into the lead on test seven.

With Garcia pulling clear for victory, Holcombe took a strong second. The fight for third was incredibly close, with Honda’s Nathan Watson beating Sherco’s Hamish MacDonald by eight tenths of a second. Will Ruprecht (TM) completed the top five.

Enduro3 – Freeman Achieves Perfect Season

With his Enduro3 crown safely defended on Saturday, Freeman secured a clean sweep of wins in 2021 with victory on Sunday. Delivering an impressively strong ride in France, Betriu comfortably placed as runner-up to Freeman.

Sherco’s Daniel McCanney joined them on the podium with third, while Jamie McCanney (Husqvarna) and Marc Sans (Husqvarna) were fourth and fifth respectively.

Laia Sanz (GASGAS) wrapped-up an incredible season winning the Enduro Women’s title in the same year that she also won the TrialGP Women World Championship ©Future7Media

Enduro Women – Sanz Rewrites The History Books

Rewriting the history books once more, Laia Sanz (GASGAS) became the FIM Enduro Women World Champion with a race win on Sunday. Returning to the championship having last won the title in 2016, Sanz was simply outstanding throughout 2021.

Claiming her fifth win of the season out of a possible six, Sanz’ sixth Enduro title, added to her FIM Trial and Rally achievements, makes her one of the most decorated motorcycle riders of all time.

“It’s been an amazing day,” said Sanz. “To win the world title again after being out of the sport since 2016 is special. But also, to take the Trial title in the same year is beyond my expectations. I can’t thank GASGAS enough for their support in helping me achieve these goals.”

With Sanz crowned champion, the battle for vice-champion went down to the wire between Mireia Badia (GASGAS) and Jane Daniels (Fantic). Daniels held a one-point advantage over Badia starting the day, but with Badia beating Daniels by three seconds she ended the season in second.

Matteo Pavoni (TM) secured the Enduro Junior title with a calculated rider on day two at the GP of France ©Future7Media

Enduro Junior – Pavoni Crowned Champion

The final world title to be played out was in Enduro Junior, with Matteo Pavoni (TM) taking the crown. Pavoni held a comfortable points cushion over closest rival Lorenzo Macoritto (TM), and by ending his day in second to Macoritto did more than enough to clinch the title.

“It’s an amazing moment,” told Pavoni. “Without the support of my family and team I couldn’t have won this title. I’m so happy with the result and how the year has gone.”

Day one winner Jed Etchells (Fantic) finished third, with Bernat Cortes (GASGAS) just four seconds behind in fourth. Max Ahlin (Husqvarna) rounded out the top five.

Enduro Youth – Norrbin Ends 2021 In Winning Style

Signing off his season in style, Albin Norrbin (Fantic) took his ninth consecutive victory of the season. Behind him the battle for the runner-up result was close. In the end Harry Edmondson edged out Kevin Cristino by seven tenths of a second, in what proved to be a Fantic clean sweep of the podium. Leo Joyon (Beta) and Thibault Giraudon (Sherco) completed the top five.

The penultimate round of the WMX Championship took place at Intu Xanadú this weekend in Spain, where Courtney took her 3rd overall GP Victory. The weekend started out well with a solid 2nd position in qualifying, giving the Kiwi a good base to work from in the following races.

Duncan didn’t have the best start in race one but quickly made it through to the lead. She would eventually lose her lead after attempting to adjust her goggles on a straight and was thrown over the handlebars. Quickly remounting the slightly bent bike Duncan was able to continue the race and finish in 2nd ahead of her series contender Kiara Fontanesi. It was more textbook riding in race two as Duncan rode a smart and sensible race, using her better start to maintain a lead throughout the race and take the chequered flag for the overall. the « 1 » will head into the final WMX Championship round with a 16 point lead, giving small breathing room and a solid game plan to bring home a third consecutive title for Kawasaki.

In MX2 it was more consistent riding from the Australian, although he was unable to find an opportunity for a solid lap in qualifying, leaving him in 18th position on the gate. With a tough start in each race, Todd pushed his way through to finish in 11th and 10th for 9th overall, extending his Championship points into 11th, where he sits just 3 points away from the top 10. 

There are now 5 GP’s in Italy over 20 days, so consistency will be key to bring home as many points as possible before the season ends.

Courtney Duncan
Qualifying – 2
Race 1 – 2
Race 2 – 1
Overall – 1

Wilson Todd
Qualifying – 18
Race 1 – 11
Race 2 – 10
Overall – 9

Steve Dixon – Manager
« Back with the WMX on Saturday and MX2 on Sunday this weekend in Spain. A good 2nd place in timed from Courtney started off the weekend well. In the first race, she didn’t have the best start but came through quickly to take the lead, everything looked under control until Courtney made an amateur error, going over the handlebars after trying to take off a roll-off during a straight. She managed to remount the slightly bent-up bike and finish 2nd. A better start in race 2, moving into the lead after a few laps. She stuck to the game plan, reading the pit board, and finished in 1st place to take the overall win. This means we’re going into the last round with a bit of cushion, hopefully helping us bring home the 3rd back to back WMX championship win for Courtney and Kawasaki. She won’t be able to ride this week due to a fractured finger from the crash but we know what we have to do.

Wilson struggled to get a clear lap in the timed practice, which when you’re looking for those half a seconds isn’t ideal. With an 18th start, some tough and technical riding was required, but he managed to bring home an 11th and 10th for 9th place overall scoring some solid points. We’ll keep pushing for improved results, consistency will be key for this last part of the season, then it will only be a short break before we are back for the 2022 season.

”Courtney Duncan“It was a tough weekend but we got the job done. It didn’t start off on the right foot, first tangling with Kiara and then a huge crash. It was a pretty stupid mistake; I should have known better than that and I only had myself to blame. I ended up in the medics, getting taped up with a deep cut in my finger; I was in pain for the second moto, but I was happy to rebound with the win. Once the adrenaline kicks in you forget the pain. The track was difficult but I rode smooth, rode smart, and kept it upright; you had to execute where you could pass and try not to make mistakes; I was able to make my way to the front quickly and put in some solid laps. I didn’t feel spectacular but I got the job done. Now I’m looking forward to the final round next weekend in Trentino. I’ve been in this situation before with the title on the line; I just have to be open-minded and confident.

“Wilson Todd“I was just a bit off the pace in Quali and two bad starts from an outside gate didn’t help. I just got stuck behind other riders at their pace but could pick it up after I got around them; I finally came alive the last five laps. I’m looking forward to the next three rounds at Arco; I rode there last year so I already know the track for once.

WMX Championship Standings
1st Courtney Duncan – 223
MX2 Championship Standings
11th Wilson Todd – 227 points
32nd Taylor Hammal – 10 points

Photos copyright © Ray Archer
Copyright © 2021 Dixon Racing Team, All rights reserved.

Spain MXGP World Championship

 

The thirteenth round of the Motocross World Championship was held in Spain on the Intu Xanadu track near Madrid, Jimmy Clochet still absent due to a knee injury and his presence at the next races is still in doubt.

In race 1 Jeremy after a shrewd start trying not to make mistakes tried to recover as many positions as possible, unfortunately the track did not have technical points where he could make a difference, Jeremy showed excellent speed but could not do better than 16th final position.

In the second heat Van Horebeek improved his performance, the position at the gate unfortunately limited his final result. Jeremy set good lap times but couldn’t do better than 15th place.

Next appointment next week with the first of the three races that will be held in Arco di Trento.

Daniele Marchese comments on the race as follows: “Challenging race for Jeremy, in qualifying we was unable to find the right solution to get a good position at the gate and this penalized us. In the two heats Jeremy showed good speed, too bad the position at the gate penalized us a lot. We are very happy with Jeremy’s race pace and this gives us hope for the next races. We move to Arco di Trento convinced that we can improve our results.“

Campionato del Mondo MXGP Spagna

Il tredicesimo appuntamento con il Mondiale Motocross si è disputato in Spagna sulla pista di Intu Xanadu alle porte di Madrid, Jimmy Clochet ancora assente a causa dell’infortunio al ginocchio e la sua presenza alle prossime gare è ancora in forse.

In gara 1 Jeremy dopo una partenza accorta cercando di non commettere errori ha cercato di recuperare più posizioni possibili, purtroppo la pista non presentava punti tecnici dove poter fare la differenza, Jeremy ha messo in mostra un’ottima velocità ma non ha potuto fare meglio della 16° posizione finale.

Nella seconda manche Van Horebeek ha migliorato la sua performance, la posizione al cancello purtroppo ha limitato il suo risultato finale. Jeremy ha fatto segnare ottimi tempi sul giro ma non ha potuto fare meglio del 15° posto.

Prossimo appuntamento la settimana prossima con la prima delle tre gare che si disputeranno ad Arco di Trento.

Daniele Marchese commenta così la gara:”Gara impegnativa per Jeremy, nelle qualifiche non siamo riusciti a trovare la soluzione giusta per poter ottenere una buona posizione al cancello e questo ci ha penalizzato. Nelle due manche Jeremy ha dimostrato una buona velocità, peccato la posizione al cancello ci ha penalizzato molto. Siamo molto contenti per il passo gara di Jeremy e questo ci fa ben sperare per le prossime gare. Ci spostiamo ad Arco di Trento convinti di poter migliorare i nostri risultati.”