Stage five of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge was the shortest of the event at 216.92 kilometres but offered little in the way of an easy ride to the finish.
Daniel Sanders
Coming into the final day of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, Daniel Sanders was lying second in the standings, and enjoyed an advantageous start position to make up time on the leader. Pushing hard, the Aussie star immediately put himself in control of the stage, topping each of the split times on his way through the special.
With all riders having to manage their fuel due to the special not including a refueling zone, Sanders’ pace was such that he ran out first while fighting for the stage, and rally win, like the true warrior he is, the Aussie then pushed his RC 450F to the finish for a 14th place result.
It’s an unfortunate way to finish the event, but Daniel can look back over his FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship season and take many positives, including several stage wins, three at the Silk Way Rally, plus others in Morocco and Abu Dhabi.
Despite the set-back at the final event, Sanders finished a respectable third overall in the final championship standings, not bad for his first full year. Taking positives from the event, Sanders has demonstrated incredible speed and skill throughout the rally, and will look to carry that form onto the Dakar in January.
Daniel Sanders – P14 Stage 5/P12 Overall
“The last day has obviously been a huge disappointment for me and the team, but that’s racing – I guess you have to take the smooth with the rough. I started really well and was making good time through the dunes at the beginning of the stage. I realized about halfway through that with no refueling in the stage, and the type of terrain we were racing through, fuel was going to be a problem. So I tried to ease my pace as much as I could. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough, and I eventually ran out. Obviously, it’s not the best way to end the rally, especially after such a strong year but I’m pleased with how I’ve ridden, not just in Abu Dhabi, but over the whole season. My pace here has been really strong, I won a stage and did a good job of leading out after that. Again, it’s not the way I wanted to end the season, but as it’s just my first full year in the championship, I’m definitely pleased with how I’ve progressed and raised my level. Although the result here has knocked me back a little, I’ll just take the positives and look ahead to the Dakar in January. I’ve really gelled with the bike – my navigation is always improving, and my pace is definitely there. We’ve got less than two months till Dakar, and I’m going to be ready!”
Daniel Sanders
As the second rider into the stage, and with a near four-minute advantage over the next best competitor, Matthias Walkner set about chasing down the rider ahead of him, while concentrating on his navigation during the soft sand dunes in the opening part of the special.
Maintaining his place within the top two for the entire stage, the Austrian delivered another calculated and consistent ride to ultimately complete the special as runner-up, just over one minute behind the eventual winner.
In what has been an impressive display of skill, endurance, and speed by the world champion throughout this final event of the year, Walkner secured the win by over four and a half minutes to truly confirm his place at the very top of the world championship standings.
Matthias Walkner – Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Champion
“It was really close today! The stage was really long without a refueling point and so towards the end I had to slow down a lot to conserve fuel. It’s part of our sport that you can have four good days and then nearly be caught out in the last few kilometers. Thankfully, I made it to the finish line and am really happy to win the last race before Dakar. The team did a really good job all week and the bike has been perfect. The whole year has been fantastic for me – with the help of the team, we have all worked really closely to bring the success we’ve had. I have ridden well and not made any big mistakes, or suffered any injuries. I’ve learned a lot, even from this week riding in the sand, which is normally not my best terrain to race in. My riding has improved, and we’ve found some good set-ups for the bike, too. Overall, it’s been an incredible season and to top it off by winning the last race really helps my confidence. The big goal is of course now Dakar, it’s not far away, and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Matthias Walkner
Bringing to an end a highly rewarding season of racing, Adrien Van Beveren secured second overall at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. Winning three of five stages, the Frenchman underlined his impressive form and after almost 18 hours of racing, finished the rally just over four and a half minutes behind the winner, Matthias Walkner.
With Adrien claiming an impressive result at the final round of the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship he advanced to second in the final series standings.
Adrien Van Beveren – Stage Five Winner
“Winning the last stage after opening, and finishing second in this rally, is a huge moment for me. The final stage was really tricky to begin with, made even more challenging by leading out so I rode a little cautious, but it paid off. No mistakes and knowing I had a nice gap in the overall classification meant that I could ride without risks and to win the stage, it’s just amazing. All year I’ve been consistent and focused on finishing each and every stage and this rally was no different. This result has come just at the right time ahead of Dakar, so from now until January I will maintain my level and aim to fight for the win there.”
Adrien Van Beveren
The ever-positive Ross Branch placed a strong third overall on the fifth and final stage. Opening the rally with a win on stage one showed his impressive speed and he remained in contention for the win until a crash and broken navigational tower during the event’s marathon stage ruled him out of the running. Ultimately, Ross enjoyed a positive debut season in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, which was undoubtedly headlined by his overall win at Rally Kazakhstan.
Ross Branch – P3 Stage 5
“It’s great to finish the final stage here in third place. It’s a shame about my crash on day two, that really messed things up but being able to ride the last two stages and put more time on the bike and continue learning was really positive. It’s awesome for me to have completed my first full season in the world championship and I can’t thank the Monster Energy Yamaha Rally Team enough for the opportunity. The focus is now on the Dakar, which is not too far away, and it won’t be long until we head out there to get things going.”
“To be honest, qualifying has been the key, not for pole position, but to be on the front row 14 times, I think. It helps a lot for the race when you start P3, P2, P1, it’s totally different. I struggled a lot in Portugal when I started in P7. Of course, it is something, the last races I haven’t been great, but I want to focus on that during this race.”
As summer winds down and I see the clear signs from the weather gods that it is time to winterize the motorbikes, I begin to think ahead to next year. Announcements begin hitting my newsfeeds, and buzz of what’s coming after New Year’s grows daily.
2021 was chock-full of very important new motorcycle models, and here I will highlight what I currently see as exciting announcements from some big-name manufacturers presenting all-new models for 2022.
Ducati
There is plenty of exciting new product coming from the legendary Ducati factory in Bologna, Italy. In order to keep the hype strong, Ducati is introducing the new models by releasing videos from Sept 30 thru Dec 9th.
So far, what is known for sure is that there will be an all-new Multistrada V2, and speculation from the title of one video alludes to possibly seeing a Streetfighter V2. There is clearly something to come about the DesertX, and there seems to be a lot to discover within the Scrambler range. Let’s look at what we already know—Ducati is a brand to watch.
The Ducati Multistrada V2 And V2S
Via Ducati.
This is an updated edition of the Multistrada 950, with the primary focus on ergonomics, weight reduction, engine updates, and a series of upgrades that follow the philosophy of “continuous improvement”.
Shedding 5 kg compared to the Multistrada 950, the Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO semi-active suspension system (standard on the S version) is available, along with fresh rider selectable electronics.
The Ducati Scramblers
Via Ducati.
Two new Scrambler Models round out the family. The 1100 Tribute PRO celebrates the history of the Borgo Panigale company through the choice of a fascinating “Giallo Ocra” livery. The new Scrambler 1100 Tribute PRO is equipped with black spoked wheels, 18’’ at the front and 17’’ at the rear, and a Ride by Wire electronic management system. It has three Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and Cornering ABS.
Via Ducati.
The new Urban Motard Scrambler has a unique style with 17’’ spoked wheels and red and white graffiti graphics. The new Scrambler Urban Motard features a red high front mudguard and side number plates—a clear reference to the Motard world.
Ducati DesertX
Via Ducati.
First shown as a Concept bike in 2019, the DesertX is slated to be Ducati’s new Adventure machine. It comes with an all-new chassis, and confirmation that the water-cooled 937cc Testastretta L-Twin engine from the Multistrada 950 will power this new machine. It is safe to say this should be a very exciting announcement on December 9th.
MV Agusta
Plenty of interesting things are happening at the boutique Italian brand MV Agusta, including an all-new bike and some very special editions.
The MV Agusta F3 RR
Via MV Agusta.
With 147hp from the MV Agusta 800cc triple tucked under new bodywork with carbon panels and small winglets, the 2022 F3 RR should tear up the track with gusto. The revised chassis is very compact and race-oriented, with a Marzocchi and Sachs suspension with full adjustability (naturally).
The full Brembo braking system with twin 320mm rotors will easily shed the rapid speeds this 381 lb machine is capable of. Not enough? MV offers a rather attractive, road-legal racing kit that boosts the power to 155 horses at 13,250 rpm. The kit includes an Akrapovič titanium/carbon exhaust system that also helps lower the bike’s dry weight from 381 pounds to 364 pounds.
The MV Agusta Superveloce Ago
Via MV Agusta.
This special edition model is meant to honor the MV Agusta’s legendary former factory racer, Giacomo Agostini. To create it, MV Agusta took the Superveloce and added sophisticated components, including a premium suspension, a new steering damper, and a triple clamp.
In honor of his 311 individual Grand Prix victories, only 311 units will be built. The first 15 of these special edition bikes are dedicated to the 15 world titles, and each bike will come with an exclusive plaque, with unique graphics bearing both the trophy and the year of the world title won by Agostini.
MV Agusta Brutale 1000 Nürburgring Edition
Via MV Agusta.
Named after the iconic German circuit, MV Agusta has created a special edition of the already insane Brutale 1000 called the Nürburgring Edition. Only 150 units will be produced, and the goal was reducing weight so basically everything that can be made from carbon fiber is—including carbon fiber wheels from BST.
A full titanium Arrow exhaust system is also fitted on this model, and the ECU receives fresh programming to adjust for the new kit.
Indian
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Chief, America’s First Motorcycle Company is introducing 6 newly reimagined Chief models. Have a look.
The Indian Chief, Chief Bobber, and Super Chief
Via Indian.
Powered by Indian Motorcycles’ Thunderstroke 111 powertrain with 108 ft-lbs of torque, each of these models features an analog gauge, chrome, and matte black finishes, and is available with or without ABS.
The Indian Chief Dark Horse, Chief Bobber Dark Horse, and Super Chief Limited
Via Indian.
Powering all premium Chief models is Indian Motorcycles’ Thunderstroke 116 engine with 120 ft-lbs of torque. ABS is standard, while premium finishes set these bikes apart and further showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each Chief and Chief Bobber Dark Horse model packs further attitude with premium gloss black finishes, while the Super Chief Limited touts premium chrome finishes.
Triumph
Many exciting things are happening at the famous UK bike brand, including 2 new applications of the 1160cc Triple and an all-new Tiger.
The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RR
Via Triumph.
Hot on the heels of 2021’s Speed Triple 1200 RS, now Triumph has decided to drop a much more sporty, track-capable RR version. Here is what sets the RR apart from the RS.
Sleek bodywork and all LED lighting, with a single round headlight and self-canceling indicators
More aggressive riding position with rear sets moved back and higher, plus new clip-on handlebars
Carbon fiber accents
The Triumph Tiger 1200
Via Triumph.
Confirmed to be coming in 2022 is an all-new Tiger 1200 sharing the 1160cc Triple engine and packing 180hp. Here is a little of what to expect:
Triumph boasts about “an astonishing transformation in weight”; expect to see an entirely fresh chassis
Spy shots show 2 small radiators as compared to the previous one
Possibly moving away from the WP suspension in favor of a Showa setup
The Triumph Tiger 660 Sport
Via Triumph.
A completely new middleweight adventure sports machine, the small displacement Tiger 660 Sport borrows much from the Trident 660.
660cc liquid-cooled DOHC Inline-Triple expected to make 80 hp at 10,250 rpm and 47.0 lb-ft. at 6,250 rpm
Showa upside-down forks and remote preload-adjustable mono-shock rear suspension unit
Ride-by-wire throttle with switchable traction control
2 riding modes (road and rain)
Michelin Road 5 tires hint at a more on road focus
Honda
Many big things are happening with Honda for 2022, from Street bikes to dirt machines—there’s even big news when it comes to their mini-moto products. Here is a breakdown:
The Honda 500 Twins (CBR500R, CB500X, CB500F)
Via Honda.
There aren’t totally new, but Honda has made significant changes to the family of 500s (the CBR500R, CB500X, CB500F). These three motorcycles are a key part of Honda’s global sales—let me highlight what is new:
Revised fueling to improve torque characteristics and feel
41 mm Showa big-piston inverted forks (SSF-PB)
New rear shock settings to work with new front forks
New Dual 290 mm front disc brakes and Nissin Calipers
New lighter 17” wide spoke front wheels, and the X gets a new lighter 19” wheel
New lighter and stiffer rear swingarm
Revised lightweight radiator
The Honda Mini-Moto 125s (Grom, Monkey, and Super Cub)
Via Honda.
New Euro 5 compliant 124cc air-cooled engine delivers 9.3 horsepower and 8.1 ft/lb torque
New 5-speed gearbox improves cruising speed
Revised styling of all three bikes
A Super Cub 125X Offroad model coming (maybe)
The Honda CRF250R
Via Honda.
While most of the CRF lineup only see minor changes, the Honda CRF250R race bikes are all new.
All-new stiffer and lighter chassis, helping drop overall weight by 8lbs
New engine making 20% more power at 6500 rpm
Revised Showa suspension
The Honda NT1100
Via Honda.
Following the trend towards mashups of adventure touring and sport touring machines, Honda has transformed the offroad-leaning Africa Twin into an on-road sport tourer.
Powered by the Africa Twin’s 101 hp (74kW), 1,084cc parallel-twin engine
Windscreen is five-way height-and-angle adjustable electronically
Preload adjustable 43mm Showa SFF-BP fork at the front and a Pro-Link rear with a Showa mono-shock
A 6.5-inch color TFT display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Available DCT transmission
Side cases come as standard with around 65 liters of space combined, and there’s an optional top case
The largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the world never rests. Expect to see further announcements as we come closer to 2022.
The Suzuki rider returns to the scene of his sole MotoGP™ win and looks a good bet for further success
It is make or break time in MotoGP™ Fantasy, with a double header proving crucial as gamers vie for some incredible prizes ahead of the season’s end. We’ve just about had time to reflect on the action from the Algarve GP as we head into the 2021 finale in Valencia this weekend, and with that in mind, we take a look at how things are shaping up in MotoGP™ Fantasy.
Who made the Algarve GP Dream Team?
He’s the form rider of the Championship, so it is absolutely zero surprise to see Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team) top the standings from Round 17 in Portimao. The Italian picked up 40 points thanks to a combination of pole position, victory and for setting the race’s fastest lap.
Joining Pecco at the top of the standings is Joan Mir, the Team Suzuki Ecstar rider returning to the podium at the Algarve GP. That result combined with a P3 start and advancing his grid position means the Mallorcan took home 30 points for his owners.
If you took a gamble on an LCR Honda rider, then you would have picked up plenty of differential points. Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) took home 24 points in Portimao after a P4 finish, but it was teammate Takaaki Nakagami who proved better value. The Japanese rider started at the back of the grid but put in a brilliant Sunday ride to climb to P11 and pick up 27 points along the way.
Rounding out the weekend’s Dream Team is Jack Miller with 25 points. The factory Ducati rider was back on the podium in the Algarve, making it four rostrum finishes in his last five Grand Prix.
Who topped the Constructor standings?
With two of their factory riders on the podium, Ducati stood head and shoulders above the competition as Bagnaia and Miller brought 32 points in for managers who selected the Bologna bullets as their constructor. It completed an excellent weekend for the Italian manufacturer as they also took home the 2021 MotoGP™ Contructors’ Championship.
In total, the Dream Team tallied 128.5 points and cost $15.5 million.
What about the action in Valencia?
All roads lead to the Ricardo Tormo Circuit for the final Grand Prix of the weekend, and even though the 2021 Championship is wrapped up, there’s still plenty to play for come lights out for MotoGP™ Fantasy gamers, so who should be under consideration for your team?
With three wins from five, Bagnaia looks a must-have. The number 63 has been averaging 25.4 points per Grand Prix. There is a caveat with the Championship runner up though, as Bagnaia has only managed to crack the top 10 once in Valencia, back in 2017 in his rookie Moto2™ year. Pecco’s teammate Miller also represents good value. The Aussie is back in podium form while he has some fond memories in Valencia, recording top three finishes on two of his last three visits to the Ricardo Tormo Circuit.
If we’re looking at recent history, then Mir looks an excellent option. Coming into form once again, the former World Champion stood on the top step of the podium this time last season for his only premier class victory, and may represent a good bet for your Motul 300V boost should you have one remaining.
If you’re looking for a differential, then it may be best to judge riders’ Free Practice form before casting a final judgement on your picks. With that in mind, we recommend keeping an eye on the Hondas, with the RC213Vs looking to have found some form during the tail end of 2021 despite the continued absence of Marc Marquez (Repsol Honda Team).
Can I still win prizes?
Yes! There’s still plenty to play for even if you aren’t at the top of the table. Gamers who come out on top of the final round will be in with a chance of taking home tickets to a Grand Prix in 2022 or VideoPass subscriptions, as well as some product packs thanks to Motul.
MotoGP™ Fantasy is back and here’s how to get involved! 23/03/2021
The incredibly popular game returns for its second season with some improved features to help you beat your friends to MotoGP™ glory
Every practice session, qualifying battle and race, exclusive interviews, historic races and so much more fantastic content: this is VideoPass!
Valencia is traditionally the season-ending Grand Prix, and following a calendar change last year due to Covid-19 when it gave up its usual position to the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, it returns to its place as host of the final round of this season’s MotoGP World Championship at the Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana.
Following the race last weekend at Portimao, the MotoGP riders will travel across the border to Spain to face the tricky and unusual layout of Circuit Ricardo Tormo. It’s the only track which is completely enclosed stadium-style, with grandstands surrounding it and providing a great view of the action. This year, following the race last year taking place in front of empty grandstands due to the pandemic, a capacity crowd of 75,000 spectators will be admitted on race day this year to create the incredible atmosphere that usually typifies a Valencian Grand Prix.
The tight and twisty layout of the 4,005m anti-clockwise circuit, with its nine left- and five right-hand turns and 876m straight, means that all options in the Valencia allocation of Michelin tyres will be asymmetric.
Valencia enjoys great weather all year round, however, when the MotoGP takes place in November temperatures begin to cool ahead of winter. Average daily highs are around 18°C and nightly lows of 8°C or less are not uncommon, so it can get cold for the morning sessions on track. Rain is also fairly common in Valencia at this time of year.
It’s not just any season finale this time around, it’s one that will stay long in the memory by default as the paddock bids farewell – on track at least – to one of the all-time greats. 26 seasons later, after over 44 per cent of all Grands Prix staged throughout the more than 70-year history of the sport, Valentino Rossi (Petronas Yamaha SRT) bows out. The stats make for incredible reading, but the legend speaks for itself.
As the sea of yellow fans enjoy their final appointment with the ‘Doctor’, part of his legacy will already be lining up alongside him on the grid, including most recent winner Francesco Bagnaia (Ducati Lenovo Team). Pecco was – according to the review of 2020 Champion Joan Mir (Team Suzuki Ecstar) – almost perfect in Portugal, with his metronomic pace and incredibly consistent laptimes compounding that feeling even further for everyone looking on. But Valencia is somewhere the Italian says he’s sometimes struggled, so it could be an interesting one to watch him take it on as a breakthrough season comes to a close.
Francesco Bagnaia
“After the weekend in Portimão, I feel really charged up for the last race of the season. In the last GP in Portugal, everything was perfect. Since Friday, we had been fast, and we hadn’t had to make any particular set-up changes to the bike, so I hope the same will happen here in Valencia. This is a track I like a lot, and in 2020, I was back to having positive sensations on my Desmosedici after two difficult GPs in Aragon. This year, we arrive in Valencia at a particular moment, where everything is going really well, and my feeling with the bike is very good. I’m ready to fight for the win again and try to take the team title after winning the constructors’ title last week”.
Last year though, there was already some good Ducati form at the venue – and more good form from the first VR46 Academy rider to take to the top step in MotoGP. That duel between Franco Morbidelli (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) and Jack Miller (Ducati Lenovo Team) was an instant classic, showing more Borgo Panigale pace at a track not traditionally a hunting ground for them. But as Miller says, the days of X strengths and Y weaknesses in the bike are largely a thing of the past, so he and Pecco can be expected at the front.
Jack Miller
“To be back on the podium at Portimão was really good, and now the goal is to finish the season fighting for another good result at Valencia. I am really excited to be racing here again this weekend. It’s a really fun track and probably one of my favourites on the calendar. The characteristics of the Ducati are well suited to this track, and last year I came very close to winning, so I’ll try again this year. After the constructors’ title, we have a chance to win the team title here, so I’ll do everything I can to help my team reach that goal too!”
Jack Miller leading Pecco Bagnaia
Morbidelli will want to use his good memories as a springboard to move forward once again, and Andrea Dovizioso (Petronas Yamaha SRT) will want to end the season on a useful note ahead of taking on the new spec machine for next season. Rossi will, of course, be guaranteed most of the limelight, but Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP) will try and wrestle some back. For a venue that’s treated Yamaha pretty well – the Iwata marque has eight wins here, only two off Honda’s haul of 10 – the reigning Champion hasn’t got the best record, so he’ll be looking to put that right and bounce back in style from a crash at Portimão and his only DNF of the season so far. With Ducati now in the hot seat in the fight for the teams’ title – and having already wrapped up the Constructors’ crown, there’s still plenty on the line.
Fabio Quartararo
“We didn‘t really get out our full potential in Portimão, so I can‘t wait to start riding again and do better in Valencia. This weekend I will focus a bit more on getting a good qualifying position. That will already make a big difference for the race. Overtaking at Valencia is not easy, so the further we are up the grid the better. I really want to enjoy this race because it‘s the final GP of the season, and I want to end it with a good result. I also want to help my team. There‘s still a chance of the Team Title, so that gives me extra motivation to push hard in every session.”
Fabio Quartararo
Franco Morbidelli
“We had a good weekend overall in Portimão, but then on the Sunday we missed a bit of speed compared to the previous days. The team have been working hard to analyse the data and I look forward to trying their solutions this weekend in Valencia. We are using these races as an extension of our pre-season testing for 2022. So, finding points of improvement and then solving them are positive developments and are exactly what we set out to do. All the work we have already done since the San Marino GP will be beneficial for us later on.”
Andrea Dovizioso
“I’m hoping that this weekend we can continue adapting to the bike more, as we made some small steps forward last time out at Portimão. It will be important to maintain this and continue working in the right direction in Valencia, to end the season as best as we can. My main target is going to be to gain more confidence on the bike, as this is also very important for me to do before the end of the season. Although I’m enjoying riding again and gaining experience, I am happy to finish the season – hopefully with some more points – because I’m looking forward to starting the 2022 one.”
Andrea Dovizioso
As that Morbidelli-Miller duel rounded out the season in 2020 though, Mir was arriving into a race weekend not only as a man on the edge of glory but also as a first time premier class winner. Consistency and podium pace was his calling card last year but that win finally came – although Styria looked like it could have been close – at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo. This time around Mir’s third overall and the title fight is over, but he arrives from some serious form on the Algarve, including his first ever MotoGP top three in qualifying. Mir was Bagnaia’s main challenger and Valencia swings the form book in the Suzuki rider’s favour.
Joan Mir
“I’m coming into the final race of the season in good spirits after I got second place last week in Portimão. Honestly, I feel strong with the bike at the moment and I like the circuit so it should be a good mixture. Last year I won the title in Valencia, so it will be a strange but also a happy feeling to come back here. I want to give the team a great result before we head into the winter.”
Joan Mir
Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Ecstar) also took a front row at the European GP last year and followed Mir home for a Suzuki 1-2, and the number 42 also sliced through to fourth in the season finale. Can the Hamamatsu factory take that first win of the season?
Alex Rins
“Ricardo Tormo circuit is a nice one to ride, especially as we’re expecting a lot of fans here and we’ll feel their support from all the grandstands. I struggled a bit last time out in Portugal, but generally I feel good. Hopefully this can be a great place to end the season, I will be working hard to achieve a strong finish.”
There’s also the fight for Rookie of the Year that will be decided. Incredibly, it’s now only three points between Enea Bastianini (Avintia Esponsorama) and Jorge Martin (Pramac Racing), with the Italian just ahead. Martin has arguably the better record at Valencia though – having taken his maiden win at the track in Moto3 – and it’s home turf too…
Valencia is also home turf for Alex Marquez (LCR Honda Castrol) and the number 73 arrives from a great duel with Miller in Portugal, taking top Independent Team honours in the race and nearly taking another premier class podium. To repeat the feat he’ll have to fight off Johann Zarco (Pramac Racing), who wrapped up top Independent of the season, as well as the Rookie of the Year duellers and the likes of LCR team-mate Takaaki Nakagami (LCR Honda Idemitsu), who has a great record at Valencia.
Aleix Espargaro (Aprilia Racing Team Gresini) will want to go better than his Valencia form so far too as Aprilia keep making progress. At this 2021 MotoGP finale the Aprilia RS-GP machines will once again dress in (RED). The partnership between (RED) and the Piaggio Group has been going strong since 2016, during which Aprilia Racing has been in the forefront of supporting the initiatives of (RED), founded in 2006 by Bono and Bobby Shriver, by bringing awareness to the fight against global health emergencies, including AIDS and COVID, to Grand Prix Motorcycle Racing and fans all over the world.
Along with their great efforts in combating AIDS, (RED) has now also committed to fighting against COVID pandemic in communities where pandemic hit hardest. (RED) has generated nearly $700 million for the Global Fund, helping more than 220 million people.
Therefore, for the last race of the season, the entire Aprilia team will dress in red and the Espargaró and Viñales’ Aprilia RS-GP bikes will be on the track in a special livery, bathed in the same colour, where the (RED) logo will be prominently displayed in support of the fight against pandemics.
Aleix Espargaro
“First of all, I’m happy to be back in (RED) colours. It is important for our wonderful sport to also demonstrate its support to those who battle in the world to improve this difficult situation. On the more technical side, I must say that the low temperatures in this period are not helping us, but if we really want to aim for important results, we need to work on this limitation as well. Our season has undoubtedly been positive, with encouraging signs and especially with consistent competitiveness throughout the entire championship season. We’ll finish as best we can in Valencia and then focus on 2022!”
(RED) partners with the most iconic brands and people to create (RED) products and experiences
Maverick Vinales
“This will be my first time with the (RED) colours and I must say that I’ll be proud to make my contribution to the efforts of so many people who have been fighting the pandemic over the past months. Naturally, it will also be my first time on this circuit with the RS-GP. I don’t know how we’ll be able to perform, but that’s the way it is for us on every track. I hope the weather will be stable to be able to work on the RS-GP. The idea this weekend is to focus on riding style, rather than on big setup changes. So, we’ll start from a stable base and try to get the most we can out of it.”
Despite Marc Marquez being on the sidelines, Honda’s record at the track – those ten wins – make for good reading, and that’s something both Alex Marquez and Nakagami will take more motivation from too. As will Pol Espargaro, who’s had three MotoGP podiums at Valencia before arriving at the Japanese factory, and he’ll want another one with Honda to end the season well.
Those aforementioned rostrum finishes for Polyccio were with KTM, for whom Valencia has hosted some history: their first podium in the premier class back in 2018 and then two more last year too. Brad Binder (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) and teammate Miguel Oliveira also have some serious form at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in the lower classes, and will be looking to end the year with some bigger finishes. For Tech3 KTM Factory Racing it’s also an emotional one, as both Danilo Petrucci and Iker Lecuona bid farewell to MotoGP. Can they go out swinging?
Arrivederci, farewell, ciao, but not goodbye. VR46 will remain a presence in the paddock; a legend for millions of people and the sport itself.
Valentino Rossi
“Valencia is always a special weekend and can be a difficult race in different aspects, especially as it is always the final round of the year – apart from last year when we ended in Portugal. However, it is somewhere that I have had some very good times. I’m hoping that we have some good weather there so that we can focus on ending the final race in the top-15 and take some more points. Although it will be my last race in MotoGP I feel normal and I think that’s okay, especially as this has been a very long season; maybe the days after the weekend will be different this year, but we will see. I hope that I will have the chance to say ‘ciao’ to my fans in a good way and to say thank you for the support.”
Valentino Rossi
Petrucci and Lecuona take on new challenges… and everyone takes on the Circuit Ricardo Tormo for one more time in 2021.
Iker Lecuona
“I just want to enjoy the whole weekend with my family, my friends and all the spectators coming from Valencia, which is my home. So, it’s a very special Grand Prix for me. Obviously, I like the track very much, it’s my home. Last year I couldn’t race there, so I will try my best to do well this weekend!”
Danilo Petrucci
“After two very unlucky rounds, we arrive at my last race in MotoGP this week. I’m disappointed about how these two past races went. But we are in a good form. Fortunately, Valencia is one of my favorite circuits, so I will try to enjoy riding there, like I did in Portimao and to make one of the best results of the season, which we really need and deserve after we have been in such a great shape these last to events.”
Danilo Petrucci
Tune in at midnight (AEST) on Sunday for the Doctor’s last dance and the final fiesta of the season!
There have been a number of key moments throughout the 2021 Moto2 season, but none as big as the last two races.
A crash for Raul Fernandez (Red Bull KTM Ajo) out of the lead in Emilia-Romagna and then a win for Remy Gardner (Red Bull KTM Ajo) on the Algarve, despite a crash for the Australian earlier in the weekend that left him bruised, have set up a final showdown that sees Gardner arrive with a huge 23-point lead.
With Sam Lowes (Elf Marc VDS Racing Team) so close to taking on Raul Fernandez on the final lap in Portugal, the Brit could have decided the title for those ahead of him then and there as well. But he didn’t, and instead we take on the Circuit Ricardo Tormo, with Gardner arriving with a big lead and on the back of a serious statement win last time out.
2021 Portimao II Moto2 podium 1 Remy Gardner – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – 39’36.275 2 Raul Fernandez – Red Bull KTM Ajo – Kalex – +3.014 3 Sam Lowes – Elf Marc VDS Racing Team – Kalex – +3.899
In pain and having not taken to the top step since Silverstone – during which time his team-mate took three wins – if there was a moment for Gardner to crumble, that was it. But instead, the Australian dug deep and came out swinging to add another five points to his advantage and set himself up with a simple job to do in Valencia: even if Raul Fernandez wins, Gardner needs just 13th to wrap up the crown. Can he do it?
Raul Fernandez won’t go out without a fight and he has a good chance at victory on paper, then left to see how the cards fall in the title fight. And there are more than just two riders on the grid…
Remy Gardner
Lowes arrives from a win and a third in good form, and his team-mate Augusto Fernandez can’t be counted out. Marco Bezzecchi (Sky Racing Team VR46) is having some trouble with his knee but will want to leave Moto2 on a high, although official confirmation of his move to MotoGP remains pending. Fabio Di Giannantonio (Federal Oil Gresini Moto2) is also premier class bound and will want a big weekend, but two hometown heroes in particular will want to get in absolutely everyone’s way: Aron Canet (Inde Aspar Team) and Jorge Navarro (Termozeta Speed Up).
Canet has had some impressive podiums this season and was fourth in Portugal too, and he’ll want to leave his fellow home heroes the Aspar Team with a few more good memories. Fellow Valencian Navarro has some hometown pedigree too and will be aiming high. They have a lot less on the line than many as well, racing solely for the podium or victory…
Can Gardner keep his cool and make sure he takes those valuable few points? Will Raul Fernandez come out swinging and take that final win to force the Australian’s hand? We’ll find out on Sunday as Moto2 go racing from 2220 AEDT… and a new World Champion will be crowned, whatever happens!
Jeffrey Herlings produced an MXGP masterclass at the MXGP of Città di Mantova on Wednesday to seal his second MXGP FIM Motocross World Championship after a thrilling battle with Frenchman Romain Febvre at the last stop of an entertaining season.
Jeffrey Herlings
“I think I deserve to win this championship. I want to thank Romain for a great season – those guys were super fast – and it is just a pity only one guy can win. Next year will be tough again. I am going to celebrate tonight. I want to thank Red Bull KTM Racing for a great job.”
Jeffrey Herlings
Herlings burst onto the motocross scene with three MX2 Motocross World Championships in 2012, 2013 and 2016 before stepping up to the MXGP level in 2017 where he claimed six GP wins to finish second overall.
Jeffrey Herlings
The 2018 season then saw the Geldrop native reel off an astonishing 17 GP wins to capture his first MXGP FIM Motocross World Championship title with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Toni Cairoli second.
Jeffrey Herlings
Sadly for Herlings, he was sidelined for most of 2019 due to injury and – despite a strong start to the 2020 season – he then picked up another bad injury that sidelined him for the second half of the year.
Jeffrey Herlings
This season, though, the 27-year-old overcame a mixed start and missed chance for points at the Czech GP due to a shoulder niggle to roar back into contention up against Febvre and three-time champion Tim Gajser.
Jeffrey Herlings
With Slovenian Gajser all but out of the title race after a disappointing previous Lombardia GP round on the same Mantova track, it was left down to Herlings and Febvre to duel it out for the title trophy spoils.
Jeffrey Herlings
Race one over 18 laps saw Herlings get the better of Febvre’s Kawasaki in second and Gajser’s Honda in third down the stretch to win by 2.465s with Spaniard Jorge Prado sixth and Italian veteran Cairoli down in 28th.
Jeffrey Herlings
The second race of the GP meet was a thrilling affair between old rivals Herlings and Gajser with Febvre too far back in third to boost his title chances as Herlings held off Gajser by just 1.497s for his second win.
The back-to-back victories meant that Herlings sneaked past Febvre in the 2021 overall rider standings to secure the title by 708 points to 703 with Gajser third, Prado fifth, Cairoli sixth and Latvian Pauls Jonass eighth.
Jeffrey Herlings
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing were a class above in the 2021 MXGP manufacturer standings as they powered to the title thanks to 842 points with Kawasaki second on 708 and Honda third on 702.
The 2021 FIM Motocross World Championship wrapped up in Mantova overnight where a big crown witnessed Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jeffrey Herlings clinch the MXGP World Title, and become a five-time FIM Motocross World Champion.
Jeffrey Herlings wins the 2021 MXGP Championship
It has been a season of highs and lows for all of the title contenders as they have struggled with injuries and bad luck but have managed to power through and provide us with some incredible racing.
In the second half of the season, the title chase between Herlings, Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team’s Romain Febvre and Team HRC’s Tim Gajser could not have been any closer, as the race for the championship went down to the final chequered flag of the 2021 season, but it was Herlings who came out on top as Febvre was forced to settle for second, just five points adrift, while Gajser finished his year with a silver medal.
The Aussies
For Jed Beaton, it was a frustrating final round. With high hopes of ending his MX2 career on the overall podium, the Australian didn’t quite secure the starts needed in either moto to challenge for the top three. In placing seventh overall, Beaton secured fifth in the final championship standings.
Jed Beaton – P7 (P5 MX2 Championship)
“It’s been a pretty emotional day to say the least. As I’ve now aged out of MX2 it was my last race for the team which, after three great years, is really tough. It’s safe to say that the season didn’t end how I’d have liked due to a few issues and a crash in race one. That ruled me out of a chance of finishing on the podium but I really tried hard in moto two but it just wasn’t meant to be. I’ve had an incredible three seasons with Rasmus and the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna team and they’ve taken me under their wing and really shaped who I am today. I’m disappointed to not end our time together with a podium result but I gave it my best shot and finishing fifth in the series is a pretty decent result.”
Jed Beaton
Bike It MTX Kawasaki’s Wilson Todd rounded out his final season in MX2 with a solid first-moto rides to tenth after qualifying twelfth in the morning. The Australian ended the championship twelfth, just twenty points short of a top-ten series ranking.
Wilson Todd – P17 (P12 Championship)
“It’s been a long season with some ups-and-downs and some rough patches so it was nice to go out with a good result before I get home to Australia for the first time in a while. Racing the GPs has been a great experience you can’t buy, coming to Europe to race bikes against the best in the world.“
Wilson Todd
MXGP of Mantova 2021 Highlights
MXGP Race 1
As the gate dropped, it was Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado with the Fox Holeshot. The Spaniard led Febvre, Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jeremy Seewer, Herlings and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Antonio Cairoli. Gajser started down in seventh behind Monster Energy Kawasaki Racing Team’s Mathys Boisrame.
Jorge Prado
Prado held on to the lead for four laps, as Febvre struggled to find a way through which played into the hands of Herlings who was able to close in and pass both riders. The Dutchman then was able to focus on his own race, as Febvre still couldn’t get around Prado.
On lap five, Febvre forced the issue onto Prado to move into second as Gajser was looking to do the same. The Slovenian had Cairoli and Seewer behind him, so could not afford to make a mistake as he pushed for third.
Romain Febvre
Seewer and Cairoli then made contact, and both crashed, with Cairoli coming into pitlane without a gear lever, hence why he could not carry on with the rest of the heat.
By that point, Herlings was 4.589 seconds ahead of Febvre, but the race was far from over. Gajser clocked his best lap of the race as he started to work away at the gap to Febvre, this in turn urged the Frenchman forward as he cut Herlings’ gap down to 2.694 seconds.
In the final few laps, Gajser had Febvre in his sights and for the next laps, the pair were faster than the race leader Herlings. At that point Herlings was struggling with arm pump and his lead started to fade with Febvre and Gajser catching up to the race leader. Then it was game on as the trio battled it out for the win.
Tim Gajser
In the end, Herlings was able to hold on to take the win with Febvre crossing the line second with Gajser third. This meant that the title fight would go down to the final race, as Herlings and Febvre finished race one tied on points.
MXGP Race 2
Race two was the all-important one, as by the end we were going to find out who will be crowned as the 2021 MXGP Champion. And as the gate dropped for the second heat, we saw Prado take his 18th Fox Holeshot ahead of Febvre, Herlings and Gajser.
Romain Febvre
Febvre then slipped into the lead with Prado quickly dropping down to fourth as Herlings and Gajser were able to get by. It seemed like Febvre was in the perfect position at that point, but his time in first position was cut short by a hard charging Herlings who was looking to waste no time.
Febvre needed to respond in order to keep close to Herlings and while trying to do so make a mistake which resulted in a crash. This allowed Gajser into second as Febvre picked himself up in third. By that point Seewer was all over his rear wheel, but he managed to stay ahead of the Swiss.
Next rider to get by Prado was Honda 114 Motorsports’ Ruben Fernandez who got himself into sixth and then was going after Standing Construct GasGas Factory Racing’s Brain Bogers, though Bogers held on to his position until the end.
Romain Febvre
Gajser then started to close in on Herlings as he was consistently faster than the Dutchman. At one point the lead went down to 1.169 seconds, but Herlings was able to respond and build some breathing room. Though Gajser did not back down, keeping Herlings on his toes until the chequered flag as Herlings celebrated his fifth world title with a race win and an overall Grand Prix victory.
Two race wins gave Herlings his 99th Grand Prix win of his career, while Gajser finished second on the box and Febvre third
After a season long battle, Jeffrey Herlings was crowned the 2021 FIM Motocross World Champion as he finished the season with 708 points, just five ahead of Febvre. Gajser was a further 15 points behind. The Bullet ends the year not only with the crown but also with 14 podiums, 9 GP wins, 15 race victories and 13 pole positions!
Jeffrey Herlings – P1
“I’m super happy but at the same time I feel gutted for the two next to me. I know how it feels, I had it in the past. I want to thank both of them for a great championship. The thing about our sport is that only one can win. But they have been great, and I respect all of them. Thank you all for the great year. Furthermore, the day was good. Definitely lots of pressure. I haven’t slept for a week, just thinking about scenarios. “If this happened? If that happened? What are we going to do?”. At the end of the day, nothing really happened the way I thought it would. We won the championship. It wasn’t an easy one. I think all three of us kept charging until the last race. Especially me and Romain. The pressure was on and I did not crack under it. I made the championship happen. I’m happy with it. It was the most difficult one ever. I needed nerves of steel the last weeks. We made it happen. I’m looking forward to next year to battle again with the boys.”
Jeffrey Herlings
Romain Febvre – P2
“It wasn’t enough to get the title. So, I am really disappointed at the moment for sure. The only thing is that I gave my all, so I don’t have regrets for sure. But to finish the season this close is really tough emotionally. I will try again next year and hope for a better result.”
Tim Gajser – P3
“It’s not easy to accept but that’s how it is. That’s sport. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Losing makes you stronger. It’s not the end of the world. Tomorrow is going to be tomorrow, and we’ll have another opportunity next year. Congrats to the guys, to Jeffrey, to Romain, for a good season. We were having some nice battles. Definitely disappointed at the moment, but that’s how it is. We’re going to come back.”
Jeremy Seewer – P4
“Results-wise, this was not the day I expected or wanted, but speed and confidence-wise, it was really good. Mantova is a tough track. It’s definitely not my favourite, but still, I have the speed for the podium. Today I didn’t manage to put the motos together, but looking at the positives, I took the holeshot in race one, but Jeffrey (Herlings) crashed, and I hit him and this turned my race upside down. I had to fight through the pack. In the second moto, I completely messed up my start. I entered the first corner buried in the pack and came back to the front really strong. In terms of my riding, it was one of my best rides this year, especially on this kind of track. I am happy with it. Only the result on paper doesn’t reflect my speed, but now we work to be back fighting upfront at the final round on Wednesday.”
Jeremy Seewer
Jorge Prado – P5
“I didn’t feel too bad today but still had to deal with my injury: it’s hard when you can start at the front and know you have to push but then deal with a lot of pain, especially through the corner exits. The other guys catch you quick, they pass and it’s tough to follow. I’m happy the season is over and I have some time to heal-up completely before starting to prepare for next year.”
Brian Bogers – P6
“It’s a great feeling to end the season with a fifth-place finish in moto two. I got a great start and it was awesome to be running up front all race in the final moto of the year. I really want to thank the Standing Construct GASGAS team for everything this season. They did such a great job and worked really hard, so it’s a shame that I couldn’t quite get into the top 10 overall this season. But this winter we will work even harder together and get the good results that the team deserves in 2022.”
2021 MXGP of Mantova Results
Pos
Rider
Nat.
Bike
R1
R2
Total
1
Herlings, Jeffrey
NED
KTM
25
25
50
2
Gajser, Tim
SLO
HON
20
22
42
3
Febvre, Romain
FRA
KAW
22
20
42
4
Seewer, Jeremy
SUI
YAM
18
18
36
5
Prado, Jorge
ESP
KTM
16
14
30
6
Bogers, Brian
NED
GAS
11
16
27
7
Coldenhoff, Glenn
NED
YAM
13
13
26
8
Fernandez, Ruben
ESP
HON
9
15
24
9
Olsen, Thomas Kjer
DEN
HUS
15
8
23
10
Van Horebeek, Jeremy
BEL
BET
8
12
20
11
Watson, Ben
GBR
YAM
12
7
19
12
Wright, Dylan
CAN
HON
6
10
16
13
Boisrame, Mathys
FRA
KAW
14
0
14
14
Jasikonis, Arminas
LTU
HUS
7
6
13
15
Cairoli, Antonio
ITA
KTM
0
11
11
16
Jacobi, Henry
GER
HON
10
0
10
17
Lupino, Alessandro
ITA
KTM
0
9
9
18
Koch, Tom
GER
KTM
3
5
8
19
Van doninck, Brent
BEL
YAM
4
4
8
20
Simpson, Shaun
GBR
KTM
5
3
8
21
Guillod, Valentin
SUI
YAM
1
2
3
22
Brylyakov, Vsevolod
MFR
HON
2
0
2
23
Strijbos, Kevin
BEL
YAM
0
1
1
2021 MXGP Standings – Round 18 (Top 20)
Pos
Rider
Nat.
Bike
Total
1
Herlings, J.
NED
KTM
708
2
Febvre, Romain
FRA
KAW
703
3
Gajser, Tim
SLO
HON
688
4
Seewer, Jeremy
SUI
YAM
566
5
Prado, Jorge
ESP
KTM
562
6
Cairoli, A.
ITA
KTM
545
7
Coldenhoff, G.
NED
YAM
442
8
Jonass, Pauls
LAT
GAS
391
9
Olsen, T.
DEN
HUS
332
10
Lupino, A.
ITA
KTM
319
11
Watson, Ben
GBR
YAM
300
12
Bogers, Brian
NED
GAS
290
13
Van Horebeek, J.
BEL
BET
232
14
Vlaanderen, C.
NED
YAM
203
15
Jacobi, Henry
GER
HON
188
16
Van doninck, B.
BEL
YAM
152
17
Simpson, Shaun
GBR
KTM
126
18
Forato, A.
ITA
GAS
119
19
Tonus, Arnaud
SUI
YAM
119
20
Paturel, B.
FRA
HON
110
MX2 Race 1
While the title may have already been decided a couple Grand Prix’s ago, with Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Maxime Renaux clinching the MX2 World Title at the MXGP of Garda, the fight for who would claim the silver medal was far from over and became the focus of the races today as just seven points separated Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle and Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Jago Geerts.
Tom Vialle
In the opening heat we saw Vialle claim his 22nd Fox Holeshot of the season as he led Geerts, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Rene Hofer, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Kay de Wolf and F&H Kawasaki Racing’s Mikkel Haarup. While Renaux started in ninth.
Geerts was then all over Vialle and not long after was able to get it done and take over the lead from the Frenchman. Soon after, Hofer started to close in on Vialle for second, while Geerts was able to build some breathing room.
Haarup lost a couple of positions in the opening laps as he slipped down to eighth and had Hitachi KTM Fuelled by Milwaukee’s Conrad Mewse applying the pressure.
de Wolf then came under fire from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Mattia Guadagnini who was gaining ground on the young Dutchman lap by lap, but he would not be able to do anything about it as Hofer ahead of them crashed, with de Wolf able to avoid him while Guadagnini was taken down.
Mattia Guadagnini
There was another shake-up at the top end of the field as Vialle rode back to pitlane after landing hard on one of the jumps which caused more pain to his already injured foot. This meant that he would not score any points and was out of the fight for the silver medal.
Geerts continued to lead as de Wolf, Renaux, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jed Beaton and Haarup all move up two positions.
Following the crash, Guadagnini got going again in seventh, while Hofer was further down in 15th. Guadagnini managed to get back to fifth by the end of the race as Hofer finished the race in 13th position.
In the closing stages of the race, we saw a battle for second as Renaux was applying immense pressure onto de Wolf. The Husqvarna rider was not backing down and despite Renaux’s best efforts, the Dutchman held on to his spot to cross the line in second. Haarup finished fourth and Guadagnini fifth.
MX2 Race 2
In race two, it was Guadagnini with the Fox Holeshot as Hofer followed, with Geerts, Renaux and Mewse just behind. Geerts quickly managed to find a way past Hofer and so did Renaux. Vialle did not line-up for the race due to his foot injury.
Jago Geerts
The Belgian then focused his sights on Guadagnini and was trying his best to get past the Italian but could not get it done. Eventually a mistake cost him second, as Renaux was able to slip by. The Frenchman then took the lead on lap three as Geerts got by Guadagnini.
Further down the field, de Wolf was fighting his way up the order as he got by Wilson Todd of Bike it MTX Kawasaki and Bastian Boegh-Damm from WZ Racing Team for seventh.
With 11 minutes plus two laps to go, Renaux’s lead started to come down as Geerts was within 1.364 seconds of his teammate.
We then saw a strong battle between Haarup and de Wolf for sixth, with de Wolf using every edge of the track to try and find a way past the Dane. This fight went on for the most part of the race, with Beaton joining them for the final few laps. Eventually de Wolf was able to get past Haarup, which also put him on the podium, while Beaton crashed but still finished the race eighth, so he did not lose any positions.
Mikkel Haarup
Renaux focused on the front as Geerts was trying to edge closer to his teammate and then on the final lap crashed, which took away his last chance to go for the race win. Renaux was the race winner, with Geerts second and Guadagnini third. Hofer was fourth and Mewse fifth.
A 1-2 result gave Geerts the overall, while Renaux was second on the box with de Wolf claiming his fourth podium finish of 2021 with third overall.
Maxime Renaux ends his championship winning season on 734 points with his teammate Geerts in second with 610, while Vialle was 30 points further adrift and ended his year with a bronze medal. As champion this year, Renaux’s stats include 14 podiums, 10 race wins and five Grand Prix victories.
Maxime Renaux – P2
“Now I realise that I am Champion. It was amazing to race with that status. I did not feel much of a difference other than some pressure at the end let’s say. I really enjoyed those two last races in Mantova with two second place finishes and some race wins. Also finishing the season with a race win is really nice. It’s been such a great season and I am really happy about the outcome. It’s actually amazing to have that consistency all year. I had 14 podiums in 18 races. It’s amazing. It’s just a dream season and I am looking forward to having many more like this one, because that’s what a rider wants. That’s also what makes me world champion today! The consistency, and I’m so happy with that. I will keep pushing to keep things this way.”
Jago Geerts – P1
“I was feeling back to normal last couple of races. At the end I could clinch the second place in the championship. Maxime was really strong this year, so he deserves it for sure. I had a pretty difficult season. I kicked it off with a knee injury. So, it was not the easiest season for me, but I still managed to get the second place in the championship. I am pretty happy with the outcome.”
Jago Geerts
Tom Vialle (P3 Championship)
“It was another difficult day. In Pietramurata, on Wednesday in the second race, I hurt a lot my foot. I broke a small bone in my foot. We didn’t really want to mention it. However, it was pretty hard for me on Sunday in Trentino. I tried to recover in one week, but the track here is though. I was not able to ride the way I wanted to. I struggled a lot on Sunday. Today I landed awkwardly after a jump, landed completely flat and hurt my hand. It’s okay though, it’s not that bad. After this incident I told myself “It’s a little bit too much, I’m not going to ride the second race because I am taking a lot of risks”. I tried to ride and fight for the second position, but it’s not like fighting for the title at the end of the day. I finished third in the championship. It was a pretty good season for me. However, I had a lot of small problems, especially with my hand in the beginning of the championship. But I am pretty happy. I think I won the most GPs, the most race wins, the most holeshots. It was a good season overall, when we focus on how I was riding. Now we have three to four months of holiday, so I will be ready next year to fight for the title.”
Kay de Wolf – P3
“I really enjoyed the last two GPs. I was really happy being back in the sand, where I enjoy riding the most and where I’m “born”. First race was quite okay. In the first GP I had a really good first race. The second race, I made a few mistakes and could not piece the puzzle together. Overall, I was fifth overall in the first one, and it was already a good step in the right direction. And then this one, to be on the box was just amazing. The goals are going to change for next season. The goal this year was to be in the top 15 and we finished seventh in the championship. So that was an amazing achievement as a rookie. For next year, we will aim to go for top 5 and see what we could do.”
Kay de Wolf
Mattia Guadagnini – P4
“I’m happy with the season. The goal was to be in the top five and we made it but I didn’t expect to win GPs and have the red plate! Today was a good way to finish the after a tough couple of rounds. I finally took another holeshot and missed the podium by just one point. I had a good feeling and was happy with my riding. Finishing 4th in the championship was not so bad!”
Ride Your Motorcycle Week is back and this year its focus is getting riders back on their bikes after lockdown as summer riding season beckons.
Now’s the time to get back out there on two wheels in time for Ride Your Motorcycle Week
The annual event will run from November 29 to December 5. With motorcycle, scooter and off-highway vehicle sales up 8.3 per cent on 2020, the event will push for riders to dust off their motorcycles and get going whether they prefer dirt riding, race tracks, commuting or adventuring.
Remy Gardner, current Moto2 Championship leader, 2022 MotoGP debutante and son of world champion Wayne Gardner has echoed Ride Your Motorcycle Week’s intention.
Remy Gardner
“Australia, it’s time to get back on your bike. From the bottom of my heart I sincerely wish that you have a great time coming out of lockdown and get out on your bikes, have a ride and enjoy the sun and the freedom again. Hope you can all get back to normal life and have a good time out on your bikes!”
Remy Gardner
Previously known as Ride your Motorcycle to Work Week, the change of name is intended to broaden the appeal of the event. Throughout the week advertising will encourage motorcyclists to dust off their bike of choice and get busy having fun, with the week to include prizes for riders.
FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber explained the intention of the event was to remind riders of the efficiency and ease riding a bike offered, as well as promoting riding’s positive impact on mental health.
Tony Weber
“When you’re on the bike, there’s nothing else like it. But life gets in the way. Ride Your Motorcycle Week is just a little extra push to get your bike serviced ahead of riding season, take the bike to work or take the long way home, take day the off and reconnect or just go and have an adventure. This is the week to start doing it. COVID has obviously changed the way Australians think about commuting, but the name change is about more than acknowledging working from home. The off-road segment has boomed during the last two years, and this is acknowledged in the campaign’s name change. Riding has a real role to play in helping Australia get back to work, offering socially distanced transportation and alleviating congestion and parking issues. As ever, our secondary goal is to capture the attention of policy makers who to often overlook riding in developing transportation infrastructure.”
The event also aims to draw attention to two-wheeled transport as a potential solution in COVID-19 recovery.
So jump on your bike for Ride Your Motorcycle Week! Pictured: CFMoto 650 GT
As some jurisdictions are now replacing dangerous wire rope barriers, Victoria is forging ahead with 190km of the flexible barriers on the Goulburn Valley Highway.
VicRoads says they are installing over 190km of the barriers on the Goulburn Valley Highway between the Hume Freeway and Ross Road, south of Kialla.
They claim:
Road safety infrastructure plays a vital role in preventing serious crashes. It also helps to reduce the severity of crashes when they’re unavoidable.
When a vehicle hits a flexible safety barrier, the posts bend at the base and the ropes catch the vehicle like a net. This helps to absorb the impact and shield the vehicle from hitting oncoming traffic, or into roadside hazards such as trees.
Early evidence shows that on the first 20 roads in Victoria treated with flexible safety barriers the total number of deaths and serious injuries caused by head-on and run-off-road crashes dropped by two thirds– from 120 people in 2015 to 41 people in 2019.
However, the evidence is not conclusive and has been debunked in several other studies.
Motorcycle Riders Association of Australia spokesman Damien Codognotto says the trend away from WRBs is damning for authorities that continue to roll out the dangerous barriers.
Damien has said that if road authorities and relevant ministers were not aware of the safety shortcomings of WRBs, “they should not be in their taxpayer-funded jobs”.
