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Moto News Weekly | Beach tops Buffalo Chip TT | MXGP | MXN

Moto News Weekly for August 6, 2019

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What happened this week

  • JD Beach wins 2019 Buffalo Chip TT
  • Ryan Sipes tops AFT Singles at Buffalo Chip TT
  • Gajser and Prado claim victory at 2019 MXGP of Belgium
  • Van De Moosdijk tops EMX at Lommel
  • Husqvarna’s Waters & Todd claim titles at Coolum MX Nationals
  • Bartosz Zmarzlik wins Speedway Grand Prix of Poland
  • Dan Reardon joins CDR Yamaha for 2019 Australian SX
  • Cole Seely announces retirement
  • Team Belgium for 2019 Motocross of Nations announced

JD Beach wins 2019 Buffalo Chip TT

JD Beach took an unexpected last-second victory at the 2019 Buffalo Chip TT at the American Flat Track premiere class showdown in Sturgis, with Jake Johnson seeming a clear winner until a mechanical issue on the final corner of the final lap wreaked havoc on his would-be victory.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Twins Start ERV
AFT Twins Start – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

TT standout Johnson grabbed the holeshot and quickly broke free at the front while a four-rider fight for second took shape involving Jarod Vanderkooi, Jared Mees, Bronson Bauman and Beach.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Twins Start ERV
And they are off! – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Passing opportunities proved few and far between as the riders negotiated the purpose-built TT circuit on the Sturgis Buffalo Chip Campground that encircled “The Bar” and was pressed tight by thousands of fans on the fences. As a result, the top five could have easily been set from the opening lap if not for repeated drama.

First, Vanderkooi ran wide and quickly gave up three positions. An aggressive Beach then made his way by Bauman as well and immediately went about applying intense pressure on Mees for second.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Twins Jake Johnson ERV
Jake Johnson – AFT Twins – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

That pressure was so great, in fact, that Mees ultimately decided it was better to just hand the position over to Beach than invite trouble in an attempt to defend it, especially once he saw that championship rival Briar Bauman was destined to DNF after crashing further back in the field.

At that point, Mees’ calculated decision appeared likely only to open the door for an eventual Estenson 1-2, but Beach still wasn’t satisfied. He somehow reeled in teammate Johnson, arriving on his rear wheel just in time to take the white flag. However, Beach simply couldn’t find a way through and was all but ready to follow Johnson to the checkered flag when Johnson’s bike suffered a mechanical issue exiting the race’s very final corner.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Twins Johnson Beach ERV
JD Beach claims the win from Jake Johnson – AFT Twins – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Beach promptly powered past, officially claiming the victory by 0.201 seconds. The win was the second of Beach’s AFT Twins career and his second straight on the tour’s run of TTs, having also won at the Arizona Super TT earlier this season.

JD Beach

“I’m heartbroken for Jake. He rode an amazing race. I came from like fifth and caught him, but we only had a lap to go. I was trying to find a way by him but there just wasn’t any room. Coming out of the last turn, I heard his bike blubber, so I knew I was hooked up and going. It’s awesome to get a win, but to get a win like that — especially with Jake because he’s such a good guy – it feels good but it doesn’t. I have to thank the whole crowd for coming out. This event is awesome. And I’ve got to thank the whole Estenson racing team. They’ve been working really hard. We’ve got a bike that can go right, and I think we’ve proved it. And we have another chance at the Peoria TT, so we’ll see what happens.”

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Twins JD Beach ERV
JD Beach – AFT Twins – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Mees came home in third, slashing his title deficit from 26 to just 12 (173-161) to open the second half of the ‘19 title fight. Bronson Bauman finished fourth, followed by Vanderkooi in fifth.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Twins Twins Podium FA
Twins Main Event Podium – AFT Twins – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Buffalo Chip TT – AFT Twins Main Event

# Rider Motorcycle Gap
1 JD Beach Yamaha MT-07 0.000
2 Jake Johnson Yamaha MT-07 0.201
3 Jared Mees Indian FTR750 8.754
4 Bronson Bauman Indian FTR750 11.943
5 Jarod Vanderkooi HD XG750R Rev X 13.236
6 PJ Jacobsen Indian FTR750 14.809
7 Robert Pearson Indian FTR750 15.346
8 Jeffrey Carver Jr. Indian FTR750 15.987
9 Henry Wiles Indian FTR750 16.209
10 Kayl Kolkman Yamaha MT-07 27.252

AFT Twins Standings

# Rider Points
1 Briar Bauman 173
2 Jared Mees 161
3 Bronson Bauman 131
4 Henry Wiles 123
5 Jeffrey Carver Jr. 121
6 Brandon Robinson 119
7 Jarod Vanderkooi 107
8 Robert Pearson 104
9 Jake Johnson 99
10 Sammy Halbert 81
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Ryan Sipes tops AFT Singles at Buffalo Chip TT

For the second consecutive year, Ryan Sipes put on a masterclass of all-around riding ability at the Buffalo Chip TT with a convincing victory in the once-stopped and restarted AFT Singles Main Event.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Singles Start ERV
AFT Singles start – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

With right- and left-handers of varying radii and jumps to navigate, the TTs demand a somewhat different, expanded skillset compared to the other three AFT disciplines. It should be no surprise that the supremely versatile Sipes once again shone under the lights at the Buffalo Chip, as he showcased the talents that also made him a Supercross race winner and America’s first-ever ISDE overall winner.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Singles Ryan Sipes ERV
Ryan Sipes – AFT Singles – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Sipes was in dominant form all day long, and effectively secured the win at the critically important start when he hammered into the lead off the line. His combination of superior speed and inch-perfect lines provided his opponents with precious little hope of defeating the Kentucky native on this night.

Ryan Sipes

“I wanted this one really bad. All I’ve thought about since I crashed at Springfield was I should have won there, and now I have to win here. And I did it, so I feel really good about it.”

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Singles Ryan Sipes ERV
Ryan Sipes – AFT Singles – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

AFT Singles points leader Dalton Gauthier was ecstatic to finish second. With series part-timer Sipes not in championship contention and key title rival Mikey Rush suffering another difficult outing, Gauthier’s podium performance opened up some breathing space at the top of the standings.

Defending champ Dan Bromley took over second in the championship chase with his sixth podium result of the season by finishing third. 2016 class champ Ryan Wells made an impressive charge on a track that was nearly impossible to pass on to arrive in fourth while top qualifier Chad Cose rounded out the top five.

AFT Bufallo Chip TT Singles podium FA
Ryan Sipes topped the AFT Singles podium- AFT Twins – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Aussie Max Whale came home in the AFT Singles main event eighth on his Kawasaki KX450F, and currently sits ninth in the standings on 83-points.

Max Whale

“Had a blast at the Buffalo Chip TT. Ended the night with a solid P8. The track was unique, tight and hard to pass! Had to come from row 3. Plenty of bar bagging! Thanks to all my sponsors!”

AFT Buffalo Chip TT Max Whale
Max Whale – AFT Singles – 2019 Bufallo Chip TT

Buffalo Chip TT – AFT Singles Main Event

# Rider Bike Gap
1 Ryan Sipes KTM 450 SX-F 0.000
2 Dalton Gauthier Husqvarna FC450 2.141
3 Dan Bromley KTM 450 SX-F 3.272
4 Ryan Wells Yamaha YZ450F 7.56
5 Chad Cose Honda CRF450R 8.072
6 James Rispoli Yamaha YZ450F 8.369
7 Jesse Janisch Yamaha YZ450F 8.509
8 Max Whale Kawasaki KX450F 8.86
9 Jacob Lehmann Honda CRF450R 9.119
10 Andrew DiBrino Husqvarna FC450 9.866

AFT Singles Standings

# Rider Points
1 Dalton Gauthier 189
2 Dan Bromley 168
3 Mikey Rush 161
4 Jesse Janisch 150
5 Ryan Wells 126
6 Shayna Texter 108
7 Chad Cose 105
8 Morgen Mischler 90
9 Max Whale 83
10 Kevin Stollings 79
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Gajser and Prado claim victory at 2019 MXGP of Belgium

For the full 2019 MXGP of Belgium report see:
Tim Gajser extends his lead at the MXGP of Belgium (link)

Tim Gajser claimed the MXGP of Belgium victory over the weekend, with a 2-2 result netting 44-points and extending his championship lead, with Romain Febvre runner up on 43-points thanks to a 1-4 result. Glenn Coldenhoff claimed the final overall podium position with a consistent 3-3 result for 40-points.

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli Tim Gajser
Tim Gajser – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14

Following the MXGP of Belgium Gajser holds the championship lead by an all but insurmountable 187-points with four rounds to go, with second place sitting with Jeremy Seewer who took fourth overall over the weekend and now holds 439-points. That’s a 37-point lead over Gautier Paulin on 402. Arnaud Tonus is a close fourth with 396-points.

Tim Gajser

“I had fun today and it is weird saying that in the sand for me. I had two good races and I let Max pass because he was faster, then he made a mistake and I got him back, then he passed me again. They told me if I was second, I would have won the overall. I very happy with this GP win as I didn’t’ expect it. I expected a top five would be good and to win here is really special. We have worked in the sand in the winter and it really worked out. The track was rough, and it was easy to make a mistake. I will try and make a good start and see if I can stay with these guys, but if I can’t I will settle for the points. It is always mental, coming here in Lommel, we know the race will be tough, so deep and so bumpy and I did my best.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli MX Gajser action
Tim Gajser – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14
Romain Febvre

“I used a lot of energy for the qualifying race. I wanted a good start gate. I was first in the first corner of the first race and then Tim passed me, and I passed him again. I was feeling comfortable but it was really tough. The first race was easier, and the second race I didn’t get the start I liked.. It was tough and it was hot. I struggled at the beginning of the first race a bit, then 10 minutes before the end I lost a bit my rhythm and I was super happy to have won the first race. In second race I ended fourth for a second overall. I couldn’t pass Van Horebeek and Coldenhoff and I lost my rhythm. I am a little bit disappointed. Today I felt better than yesterday, but I didn’t have so much energy at the end.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli MX Febvre start Cover
Romain Febvre – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14
Glenn Coldenhoff

“It is great. Two weeks ago I didn’t feel good in the sand, but the team helped with a great bike and I give it to those guys. I am happy to be back up here and I enjoy it. The sand always suits me well, and it is easier than hard pack for me. Yesterday I felt good. I went into qualification to save energy for today’s race and maybe that was wrong, because I couldn’t find my rhythm and I struggled a bit. I pushed this morning and had that good feeling again pulling also the FOX Holeshot. I have to thank my boss and the whole team. We have been through difficult time, but we are back. The team has done an amazing job to have me comfortable in the sand.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli MX Gajser Febvre Coldenhoff finish
Glenn Coldenhoff – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14

MXGP Round Overall

Pos Rider Total
1 Gajser, Tim 44
2 Febvre, Romain 43
3 Coldenhoff, Glenn 40
4 Seewer, Jeremy 34
5 Van Horebeek, Jeremy 29
6 Jasikonis, Arminas 28
7 Anstie, Max 25
8 Jonass, Pauls 24
9 Monticelli, Ivo 23
10 Paulin, Gautier 23

MXGP Standings

# Rider Points
1 Gajser, Tim SLO HON 626
2 Seewer, Jeremy SUI YAM 439
3 Paulin, G. FRA YAM 402
4 Tonus, Arnaud SUI YAM 396
5 Cairoli, A. ITA KTM 358
6 Jasikonis, A. LTU HUS 355
7 Coldenhoff, G. NED KTM 349
8 Febvre, Romain FRA YAM 336
9 Van Horebeek, J. BEL HON 329
10 Jonass, Pauls LAT HUS 321
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In MX2 Jorge Prado proved unstoppable with a 1-1 result and 50 championship points to the tally, with the runner up position proving a tight competition with Calvin Vlaanderen, Ben Watson and Tom Vialle all sitting on 36-points a-piece, with Vialle missing out on the podium and Vlaanderen runner up. Adam Sterry in fifth overall was a further point in arrears.

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli MX Prado start
Jorge Prado – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14

Following Belgium Prado (644) holds a 124-point lead from Thomas Kjer Olsen (520), with Tom Vialle (416) a further 104-points back in third place. Jago Geerts sits fourth in the standings on 413-points, while Henry Jacobi completes the top five with 399-points.

Jorge Prado

“Normally it is a tough race even if I had a good flow the whole race. I was enjoying it and I was mentally prepared for this. We are closing in on the championship and looking for the next round. The first race was also good, the track is very rough, and you need to be careful with your energy and have energy for the second one. The second race was good, another FOX holeshot and that was my goal. The last lap I had more than 30 seconds lead and I tried to make it bigger, but I lost my hand and fell, lucky I got up quickly. Third GP win at Lommel, so I am happy.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli MX Prado action
Jorge Prado – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14
Calvin Vlaanderen

“It feels good to be back, this is the goal to come on the podium. First race I wasn’t happy, put it down and came back. Didn’t expect to be on the podium as I started the second race with the goal to have fun. I was stoked when I saw I was on the podium. I think in Italy I need two good starts and two good races. Maybe on the hard-pack I can put a bit more pressure on Prado and try and fight at the front.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium Pirelli MX Vlaanderen podium
Calvin Vlaanderen – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14
Ben Watson

“I am gutted for my teammate. I come here not knowing what to expect as I decided to race just some days ago. I came here to one of the toughest Grand Prix of the year and got on the podium. I want to thank the team, my girlfriend, my family and everyone who has been a part of this. The last few weeks have been difficult, I had a lot of time to improve after Indonesia and I got a lot of physical training in as I wanted a good comeback race. I only rode Tuesday for the first time, and we decided to come, and it was a big shock to me and the whole team. My teammate Jago deserved the second spot on the podium.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium WATSON MOTOCROSS GP B
Ben Watson – MXGP of Belgium 2019, Round 14

MX2 Round Overall

Pos Rider Total
1 Prado, Jorge 50
2 Vlaanderen, Calvin 36
3 Watson, Ben 36
4 Vialle, Tom 36
5 Sterry, Adam 35
6 Renaux, Maxime 29
7 Genot, Cyril 22
8 Östlund, Alvin 22
9 Jacobi, Henry 22
10 Geerts, Jago 22

MX2 Standings

# Rider Points
1 Prado, Jorge ESP KTM 644
2 Olsen, T. DEN HUS 520
3 Vialle, Tom FRA KTM 416
4 Geerts, Jago BEL YAM 413
5 Jacobi, Henry GER KAW 399
6 Sterry, Adam GBR KAW 314
7 Watson, Ben GBR YAM 282
8 Renaux, Maxime FRA YAM 271
9 Beaton, Jed AUS HUS 250
10 Vlaanderen, C. NED HON 248
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Van De Moosdijk tops EMX at Lommel

The EMX250 and EMX125 classes continued their championships stories in Lommel at the MXGP of Belgium, and once again it was the sand masters who came out with amazing skills around one of the toughest circuits in the World.

MXGP Rnd Belgium EMX Start
EMX250 start at Lommel

Roan van de Moosdijk is the king of the sand in the EMX250 class, going 1-1 and taking the points’ lead in the series standings heading to the next round in Sweden. The Dutchman was a level above his competition as he clocked lap times bunch of seconds quicker than the other EMX250 riders. Kevin Horgmo was second overall and Mikkel Haarup third.

In the EMX125 class it was Simon Laengenfelder who scored 2-1 results to win the overall, ahead of series leader Mattia Guadagnini and Tom Guyon. Guadagnini continues to lead the series by 20 points over Guyon.

EMX250

Kevin Horgmo was quickly into the lead in the opening EMX250 race, followed by Isak Gifting, Kay Ebben and Roan van de Moosdijk. Mikkel Haarup moved past van de Moosdijk on lap two, and championship front runners, Rene Hofer was back in seventh, Stephen Rubini was ninth and Alberto Forato way back in 14th. Van de Moosdijk moved into second place on lap three.

MXGP Rnd Belgium Alberto Forato
Alberto Forato

Van de Moosdijk moved into the lead on the fourth lap while Rubini was up to sixth position. After six laps the lead was 12 seconds between van de Moosdijk and Horgmo. Haarup moved into second on lap 10 and Rubini moved into fifth place. Van de Moosdijk won the Saturday’s race 1 from Haarup and Horgmo.

In the second EMX250 race it was Van De Moosdijk who led early from Horgmo, Raivo Dankers, Bastian Boegh Damm and Rene Hofer. Rubini was down in seventh place. After just one lap the lead was already more than five seconds as the Dutchman was showing off his sand skills. A lap later the lead was nearly 10 seconds.

Forato moved into second place when he passed Horgmo, and Rubini crashed and dropped to 10th place. Not a lot changed with Van De Moosdijk moved to 30 seconds ahead of Forato on lap eight, then came Horgmo, Dankers and Boegh. Rubini remained in 10th place.

With a 32 second lead Van de Moosdijk slipped over in a corner, but still had an easy lead when he got up and just to make matters even better for the leader, Rubini dropped out of the top ten and was in 13th.

Van De Moosdijk won race 2 from Forato and Horgmo and getting is double race win of the season and the Red Plate for the first time in his career. The Dutch rider got in the Belgian round in thirst position in the series and will head to Switzerland leading the series with 11 point over Rubini.

Roan Van De Moosdijk

“I didn’t know I had the points lead until the end of the race. The start today was good, and I controlled the races even if at the end I got tired. It’s been always a dream to have a red plate and now I have it, and close to home with all my family and friends here to see it. I want to thank my team and my trainer.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium Roan Van De Moosdijk
Roan Van De Moosdijk

EMX250 – Overall Top Ten

  1. Roan Van De Moosdijk (NED, KAW), 50 points
  2. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, KTM), 40
  3. Mikkel Haarup (DEN, HUS), 35
  4. Alberto Forato (ITA, HUS), 34
  5. Ken Bengtson (SWE, HUS), 31
  6. Jeremy Sydow (GER, HUS), 28
  7. Rene Hofer (AUT, KTM), 28
  8. Stephen Rubini (FRA, HON), 26
  9. Isak Gifting (SWE, KTM), 23
  10. Hakon Fredriksen (NOR, YAM), 20

EMX250 – Championship Top Ten

  1. Roan Van De Moosdijk (NED, KAW), 288 points
  2. Stephen Rubini (FRA, HON), 277
  3. Alberto Forato (ITA, HUS), 275
  4. Rene Hofer (AUT, KTM), 195
  5. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 137
  6. Giuseppe Tropepe (ITA, YAM), 133
  7. Jeremy Sydow (GER, HUS), 131
  8. Josh Gilbert (GBR, HON), 127
  9. Kevin Horgmo (NOR, KTM), 99
  10. Raivo Dankers (NED, YAM), 97

EMX125

Joel Rizzi took the holeshot in the opening EMX 125 race but it was Mattia Guadagnini who took the lead quickly and just walked away from the field. Second was Simon Laengenfelder, and third Tom Guyon. Mike Gwerder finished in fifth and lost ground on the two front guys in the points race.

MXGP Rnd Belgium EMX Start
EMX125 start

The second EMX125 presented by FMF Racing race proved a surprise as Laengenfelder took the lead on Guadagnini and Guyon on lap 3. After five laps the lead was five seconds as the German rider showed amazing sand skills.

Rizzi was also looking good in fourth position ahead of fifth placed Kay De Wolf. Laengenfelder rode brilliant to remain in control and winning from Guadagnini and Guyon.

MXGP Rnd Belgium EMX Podium
EMX125 podium

Simon Laengenfelder won his first EMX125 Presented by FMF Racing round of his career with his 2-1 and he stands third in the championship while Mattia Guadagnini keeps the red plate.

Simon Laengenfelder

“I had the holeshot and Guadagnini passed me then I passed him back. I am so happy with the victory. I want to thank my team. This is unbelievable.”

MXGP Rnd Belgium EMX Simon Laengenfelder
Simon Laengenfelder

EMX125 – Overall Top Ten

  1. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, KTM), 47 points
  2. Mattia Guadagnini (ITA, HUS), 47
  3. Tom Guyon (FRA, KTM), 40
  4. Andrea Bonacorsi (ITA, KTM), 34
  5. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 30
  6. Camden Mc Lellan (RSA, KTM), 26
  7. Mike Gwerder (SUI, KTM), 25
  8. Max Palsson (SWE, KTM), 24
  9. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 23
  10. Joel Rizzi (GBR, KTM), 23

EMX125 – Championship Top Ten

  1. Mattia Guadagnini (ITA, HUS), 265 points
  2. Tom Guyon (FRA, KTM), 245
  3. Simon Laengenfelder (GER, KTM), 175
  4. Mike Gwerder (SUI, KTM), 174
  5. Jorgen-Matthias Talviku (EST, HUS), 165
  6. Oriol Oliver (ESP, KTM), 156
  7. Kay de Wolf (NED, HUS), 155
  8. Liam Everts (BEL, KTM), 123
  9. Guillem Farres (ESP, KTM), 101
  10. Andrea Bonacorsi (ITA, KTM), 95
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Husqvarna’s Waters & Todd claim titles at Coolum MX Nationals

For the full round reports see:
DPH Husqvarna do MX1/MX2 Championship double (Round 10 – Link)
Reports | Results| Images from Coolum MX Nationals Rnd 9 (Link)

DPH Husqvarna Factory Racing team racers Todd Waters and Wilson Todd dominated the final two rounds of the MX Nationals in Coolum, to win both the MX1 450cc and MX2 250cc National Motocross Championships, and become the only team to win both the MX1 and MX2 titles in the one MX Nationals season.

MX Nationals Coolum Ikap Todd Waters
Todd Waters – Image by iKapture

Todd Waters quickly secured the MX1 Superpole on Saturday, before going on to win all three MX1 races, while Wilson Todd took both MX2 wins and secured a dominant round nine display for DPH.

With Sunday hosting the tenth and final round of the MX Nationals on the very same track, Todd Waters once more secured Superpole before going on to win both 16-lap MX1 races and securing the MX1 Championship.

Wilson Todd took a 1-2 finish in the back-to-back format and a third in the final moto to also secure the MX2 overall and the 2019 MX2 Championship.

MX Nationals Coolum Ikap MX Wilson Todd
Wilson Todd – Image by iKapture
Todd Waters – 2019 Thor MX1 Champion

“I’ve wanted this for so long, and I’m pumped to be able to do it with such a great group around me. From personal sponsors that have been with me through my whole career, to new supporters, and the team at DPH, my family, and especially my Dad Steve. Having him behind me at every gate drop has been unreal and really helped to take the pressure off and just enjoy racing my bike. I’ve said it a lot this season, but I really love riding the FC450. DPH builds a family atmosphere where it’s easy to relax, focus and get the job done and that’s exactly what we did this weekend. I was confident coming into the weekend that I could wrap up the season, but I never expected to have a perfect finish with two superpoles and five race wins!”

MX Nationals Coolum Ikap MX Waters Dylan Wood
Todd Waters – Image by iKapture
Wilson Todd – 2019 MX2 Champion

“Everything came together for me this weekend. I’ve been comfortable leading the championship, but with such a small gap, and a double header weekend, anything could’ve happened. I didn’t get a great lap in qualifying, but I got out of the gates strong and was able to ride at a strong pace to take both race wins and increase my lead for the final day of racing. For Sunday, I wanted to win, but not at the sake of the championship, so I used my head, raced hard and took opportunities when they were there, without risking too much. I’m now a two-time MX2 champion, and really glad I could help DPH make history by taking both championships in the one season. Thank you to everyone that supports me and the whole team.”

MX Nationals Rnd Coolum Todd Crawford
Wilson Todd – Image by iKapture
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CDR Yamaha’s Luke Clout MX1 runner-up

Heading into the final two rounds over the weekend the premier MX1 championship rolled into Coolum on a knife’s edge with just two points separating the top two riders and with four points scoring motos on a track known to wreak havoc, where anything could have happened.

MX Nationals Coolum Ikap Start MX Clout Long
Luke Clout – Image by iKapture

But, fight as he may, Luke Clout wasn’t able to overcome rival Todd Waters and had to settle for fourth place in each round which more than secured second place in the championship on board his Yamaha YZ450F.

Clout stuck to his guns all weekend and went down swinging. He wanted to take the challenge right up to Waters but a crash proved costly and he was unable to make any headway into the championship lead.

Luke Clout

“I did everything I could all weekend and the boys in the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team really put in the hard yards but I wasn’t good enough today and Todd deserved his victory. I felt pretty good on the bike most of the weekend but I had a decent crash in the final race on Saturday afternoon which left me and my bike pretty battered. The team worked through the night to get it back into perfect shape and we gave it our all, but just couldn’t get it done. Congratulations to Todd and his team this year. I know he has wanted this for a long-time and he has been great to race with all season. For me it was a better result than last season which is good, and the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team have been amazing to work with. Finishing second has given me more motivation to work harder for next years championship and I will be back to give it 100%. Thank you to my team, my family and my girlfriend for their support this season, also to WEM and the series sponsors in making the MX Nationals happen. Time now for a few days off and then its back into it for Supercross and I can’t wait to get back in the stadiums again.”

MX Nationals Coolum Ikap MX Clout
Luke Clout – Image by iKapture

Strong Coolum result for Kawasaki’s Dylan Long

Dylan Long finished off the 2019 MX Nationals championship in spectacular fashion at Coolum, scoring dual MX1 podium results in the double-header series finals.

Saturday’s Round 9 marked Long’s first overall podium of the year after he qualified in sixth position and then powered to 3-7 results in the opening MX1 sprint races for a combined moto score of fourth. In the final outing, he charged to third, granting him a deserved third overall for round nine.

Round 10 was even more impressive for the popular Victorian talent, transferring through Super Pole to qualify in third. The first moto saw him one again ride to a top-three result in third place, before backing that form up with second in moto two. Those results saw him achieve back-to-back overall podiums, this time in P2 for round 10 to cap-off the series.

Dylan Long

“I’m really stoked for myself and the Empire Kawasaki team to finish the season with these podium finishes,” beamed an elated Long. “The goal was to get better and better at every round once I came back from injury and we did that. After finishing third yesterday, I knew I would have to back it up today and we managed to finish second, so we’re really happy. The track was gruelling this weekend and especially today, but Empire Kawasaki had my KX450 working so good in these conditions and I can’t thank them enough!”

MX Nationals Coolum Ikap Dylan Long
Dylan Long – Image by iKapture

2019 MX1 Championship Final Points

  1. Todd Waters 568
  2. Luke Clout 530
  3. Hayden Mellross 462
  4. Kirk Gibbs 435
  5. Brett Metcalfe 432
  6. Justin Rodbell 373
  7. Richie Evans 372
  8. Jesse Dobson 360
  9. Dylan Long 325
  10. Jayden Rykers 300

2019 MX2 Championship Final Points

  1. Wilson Todd 562
  2. Kyle Webster 536
  3. Jay Wilson 523
  4. Nathan Crawford 492
  5. Aaron Tanti 460
  6. Dylan Wills 394
  7. Bailey Malkiewicz 387
  8. Ricky Latimer 360
  9. Cooper Pozniak 345
  10. Morgan Fogarty 327
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Bartosz Zmarzlik wins Speedway Grand Prix of Poland

World No.2 Bartosz Zmarzlik raced to Betard Wroclaw FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland glory on Saturday night and declared the epic event “the best GP in history.”

FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland Bartosz Zmarzlik
2019 Speedway Grand Prix of Poland

The Polish icon raced to his second win of 2019 and the second of his career on home soil – five years on from his unforgettable 2014 Gorzow SGP triumph as a wild card, which saw him become the youngest SGP winner of all time at the age of 19.

Zmarzlik topped the podium ahead of Martin Vaculik and Leon Madsen, and now leads the World Championship standings on 61 points – level with Emil Sayfutdinov and Madsen, but ahead of his rivals by virtue of his FIM ranking.

It was an incredible night of action which saw passing aplenty as Wroclaw staged its first SGP event in 12 years in a sold-out Olympic Stadium.

Zmarzlik was delighted to take the win a huge 17-point haul, but admits he had to fight for it.

Bartosz Zmarzlik

“I think that was the best GP in history because there were so many riders changing places all night. It was nice speedway. I’m very happy because this is my first win in Poland away from my home track Gorzow. I am very happy because I scored good points and it was a good meeting. It was good work today. It wasn’t so easy at the start, but the last heats were the best.”

FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland Bartosz Zmarzlik
Bartosz Zmarzlik – Speedway Grand Prix of Poland

Zmarzlik is nicely placed in his quest to become Poland’s third world champion, following in the footsteps of his former Gorzow team mate and mentor Tomasz Gollob in 2010.

But he’s not taking anything for granted at the championship’s halfway stage, with five rounds still to race.

Next up is the Scandinavian SGP at Malilla’s G&B Arena on August 17. Zmarzlik triumphed there in 2016 and has been in extraordinary form in the Swedish Elitserien this season, leading the average charts on 2.900 per race – from a maximum of 3.000.

Vaculik was pleased to pick up his third SGP second place of the season and 15 valuable points. He’s now just two off top spot with 59, occupying fourth place. But the Slovak admits he’s determined to convert his next final appearance into a victory.

Third-placed Madsen produced a show reel of epic rides on his way to the final. While he admits his starts forced him to go on the offensive, he was pleased to have the pace to pull off some big moves to stay among the championship frontrunners.

FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland Bartosz Zmarzlik
Bartosz Zmarzlik tops the 2019 Speedway Grand Prix of Poland podium

Speedway GP World Championship Standings

  1. Bartosz Zmarzlik 61
  2. Emil Sayfutdinov 61
  3. Leon Madsen 61
  4. Martin Vaculik 59
  5. Patryk Dudek 55
  6. Fredrik Lindgren 47
  7. Janusz Kolodziej 44
  8. Maciej Janowski 36
  9. Jason Doyle 35
  10. Artem Laguta 34

Betard Wroclaw SGP Scores

  1. Bartosz Zmarzlik 17
  2. Martin Vaculik 15
  3. Leon Madsen 14
  4. Janusz Kolodziej 15
  5. Emil Sayfutdinov 14
  6. Maciej Janowski 12
  7. Patryk Dudek 8
  8. Antonio Lindback 7
  9. Artem Laguta 7
  10. Tai Woffinden 6
  11. Jason Doyle 5
  12. Fredrik Lindgren 5
  13. Maksym Drabik 4
  14. Max Fricke 4
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Dan Reardon joins CDR Yamaha for 2019 Australian SX

Former multi-time Australian Supercross champion, Dan Reardon, will re-unite with the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team for the 2019 Australian Supercross Championship starting on October 12 in Brisbane.

AUS X Open Jason Anderson Podium
Dan Reardon on the podium for the SX1 Overall at the Aus-X Open in 2018
Jason Anderon 75
Dean Wilson 62
Daniel Reardon 60

Reardon, who finished third in the 2018 championship on board a YZ450F, has joined forces with the most powerful team in Australian motocross and supercross and already deep into his preparations for the coming season.

In a deal that sees Reardon combine the championship winning formula of the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team, he has also been able to bring his own sponsors to the effort to create a unique and powerful team.

Dan Reardon

“It’s awesome to be back with the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team and working with a great group of guys. We won the championship together in 2015 and I have built a close bond to CDR and Yamaha over the years. Last year I did my own program together with the help of Yamaha but the logistics of managing that and also preparing to race become more time consuming than I anticipated. It’s great to be back with CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team again as I know that all the background work is taken care of and my sole focus is to win races and get the job done with no distractions. Craig has been great to work with in putting this deal together and we have been able to put together a deal that allows me to keep my global deals in place with companies like Fasthouse, DR Homes, Bell, Go Pro and Boost, but also take on the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team sponsors, infrastructure and support. I’m excited to go racing again and really looking forward to a successful year and a great championship battle in 2019.”

Australian Supercross Geeling TBG Reardon
Dan Reardon – Image by TBG

The CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team were on the look out for another rider for the 2019 supercross season as Kirk Gibbs is contracted for the MX Nationals only. After assessing all options, team owner Craig Dack, felt Reardon was the right man for the job and with previous success, Dack hopes to build on the already proven platform.

Craig Dack – CDR Yamaha Team Owner

“Dan is obviously a talented, highly skilled and well credentialled supercross rider who has had a long term relationship with Yamaha here in Australia and the US. On limited budget in 2018, he was able to put together an impressive season and now with the extra support and infrastructure the CDR Yamaha Monster Energy Team can provide, we hope to take it to the next level with Dan in 2019. He is already comfortable with the Yamaha YZ450F and well under way in his preparation for the series. We are happy to put this deal together with Dan and some of his partners that have been behind him in recent years and feel we have the riders and the team to challenge for the 2019 SX1 supercross championship.”

mx nationals coolum round mx cdr dacka ImageScottYa
CDR Yamaha’s Craig Dack

The opening round of the Australian Supercross Championship gets under way on Saturday October 12 at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre before travelling through Adelaide, Wollongong and Auckland before the grand final at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on November 30.

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Cole Seely announces retirement

Team Honda HRC rider Cole Seely announced his retirement from professional racing after over a decade competing at the highest level in both the AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross series. Seely has dedicated nearly his entire professional career to the Honda brand, riding for a Honda satellite team throughout most of his 250 tenure before spending five years aboard a factory CRF450R.

At 29, Seely has accomplished a number of milestones. After turning pro in 2009, he signed with the then-Honda-backed Troy Lee Designs team in 2010. During his five-year stint with that team, Seely captured five 250SX victories and finished runner-up in the 2014 250SX West title chase.

In 2015, he was awarded 450SX Rookie of the Year honors after finishing third overall in the AMA Supercross series, highlighted by his first 450cc victory, at the Houston Supercross. Seely also represented Team USA at the 2017 Motocross of Nations.

AMA Supercross FInal Seely JK SX Vegas
Cole Seely – Image by Hoppenworld

Over the past few seasons, Seely has been plagued by injuries, which contributed to his decision to retire.

Cole Seely

“These past two years have been very difficult. Last year’s injury was severe and very tough on me both mentally and physically. I fought hard to return this season, but it was much more challenging than I anticipated. Now with this recent shoulder injury, it’s just another setback. This decision definitely wasn’t easy, but I think it’s the right choice. I’m grateful for having been given the opportunity to do something I’ve loved since I was a kid and to make it into my career. I’m grateful for the support from my fans and many sponsors throughout the years. I’d especially like to thank Honda, who has been behind me for my entire career, supporting me through the ups and downs. I’m grateful to have been partnered with such a great brand. I’m looking forward to this next chapter and to seeing where the future takes me.”

AMA MX Rnd Seely JK MX Hangtown
Cole Seely – Image by Hoppenworld
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Team Belgium for 2019 Motocross of Nations announced

The MXGP of Belgium hosted the presentation of the Belgian team for the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations. Presentation was held at the public area of the Lommel GP in front of a huge crowd of Belgian fans.

Team Belgium Manager Johan Boonen presented the 2019 Line up representing the Belgian colors in Assen on September the 28thand 29th.

MX of Nations Tam Belgium Announced BEL
Team Belgium for 2019 Motocross of Nations announced

Jeremy van Horebeek will lead the team riding the MXGP class, while Jago Geerts will compete the MX2 class and veteran Kevin Strijbos rounded up the Squad representing Belgium in the Open class.

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Source: MCNews.com.au

Moto News | MXGP | EMX | AMA MX | AFT | SGP | Dirt Track

Moto News Wrap for June 18, 2019 by Darren Smart

Proudly brought to you by Dunlop Geomax
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The LATEST News

  • Gajser and Prado Win MXGP of Latvia
  • Van De Moosdijk and Bengtson win EMX rounds in Latvia
  • Tomac and Cianciarulo Win High Point AMA Motocross
  • Bauman Brothers Storm Laconia AFT Grand National
  • Kolodziej Wins Czech SGP
  • Clout and Rutledge Crowned Champions at Nowra
  • Duvall Stays with Husqvarna
  • Desalle, Lupino and Bobryshev Injured
  • Seely Injured
  • Entries Open for 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships

Gajser and Prado Win MXGP of Latvia

Kegums in Latvia has hosted an action packed ninth round of the FIM Motocross World Championship and it was Team HRC’s Tim Gajser and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Jorge Prado who have won the MXGP and MX2 classes respectively and in doing so have extended their championships points leads.

MXGP Latvia Rnd Jorge Prado
MXGP of Latvia 2019

MXGP Report

The most successful team in recent GP history has been the Red Bull KTM team but season 2019 went completely pear shaped in Latvia with their brightest hopes in Antonio Cairoli and Jeffrey Herlings both suffering major set-backs.

MXGP Latvia Rnd Jeffrey Herlings
Jeffrey Herlings leading the MXGP Race 1 start – MXGP of Latvia 2019

Herlings, in his second GP back from injury won the opening moto before it was reported that he has re-broken his previously injured ankle after incredibly crashing during the second moto warm up lap then former 2019 championship dominator in Cairoli crashed hard out of the second moto just an hour after a solid fourth in the opening moto.

All of that aside, there were three riders tied on 40 points at the top of the MXGP points tally for the day but on a count back Gajser scored his 20th GP victory with 6-1 moto finishes but more importantly now holds a 33-points lead in the championship over Cairoli.

Tim Gajser

“I am so happy about today. First race I was struggling, but the second one I found a good rhythm and I had a good battle with Jeremy. I am so happy for the team. Yesterday I had good speed but at the qualification race I had a big crash and I was a little sore today with some pain in my neck, but I got enough for sixth in the first race. Second race I tried to ride my race and I didn’t know I had won the overall. This is everything we work for and I am happy for the team.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Gajser bybavo
Tim Gajser – MXGP of Latvia 2019

Romain Febvre (4-2) and Arnaud Tonus (2-4) rounded out the podium for the Yamaha fans.

Romain Febvre

“Today was okay, much better than yesterday. I made some mistakes with bike set-up yesterday. We changed it a lot for today and I felt better. My start was not there, and I struggled a bit. I could have finished fourth but I got really bad arm pump. Tony was in front of me and I couldn’t catch him. The second race I had a good first lap and kept my moment. Middle of the race I struggled in the wave but I could catch the guys in front. Maybe I needed two or three extra laps to catch Tim. I thought I won the overall, but I am happy even if a bit disappointed. It isn’t so long after I came back from my injury, so I feel satisfied.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Febvre action
Romain Febvre – MXGP of Latvia 2019
Arnaud Tonus

“I had a good feeling, at the beginning I got passed by Jeffrey and I followed him, then I found some good lines and it was great to lead. I had a good lead, but Jeffrey passed me, and he got the win. I will take every race to learn and just get better. I have to be happy. Sure, a bit frustrated, coming so close to the win, I will keep working and it is great to be on the podium, I enjoy this a lot. The way I was riding today, it’s maybe the best I have ridden in these types of conditions. It’s been years that I am trying to work on myself to compete at this level and if you look at the last few GPs, I am super happy. My mechanic told me if I could pass Romain, I could win the GP, but the track was sketchy, and I tried to keep it on two wheels.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Arnaud Tonus
Arnaud Tonus – MXGP of Latvia 2019

Cairoli walked off the track after spectacularly crashing out of the second moto holding his right arms and at the time of writing the extent of his injuries are unknown while Herlings is already in hospital to repair the damage he incurred during his warm up lap crash.

Tony Cairoli

“On Saturday I had the Flu and a fever, and my arm was not as strong as I wanted after the crash in Russia. I could battle with the guys for first position in the first moto but then I got a bit tired and settled for third, which was good for the championship. In the second moto I was fourth and trying to follow [Arnaud] Tonus. I had quite a big crash and when I stood up I felt my shoulder was out. My hope is to be ready to at least start next week in Germany. I don’t want to give up at all and I want to be there as much as possible for the championship.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Tony Cairoli
Tony Cairoli – MXGP of Latvia 2019

MXGP Overall Classification Top 10

  1. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 40 p
  2. Romain Febvre (FRA, YAM), 40 p
  3. Arnaud Tonus (SUI, YAM), 40 p
  4. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, YAM), 36 p
  5. Jeremy Van Horebeek (BEL, HON), 30 p
  6. Jeffrey Herlings (NED, KTM), 25 p
  7. Gautier Paulin (FRA, YAM), 23 p
  8. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, KTM), 22 p
  9. Ivo Monticelli (ITA, KTM), 22 p
  10. Max Anstie (GBR, KTM), 20 p
  11. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 20 p

MXGP – World Championship Classification Top 10

  1. Tim Gajser (SLO, HON), 391 p
  2. Antonio Cairoli (ITA, KTM), 358 p
  3. Jeremy Seewer (SUI, YAM), 256 p
  4. Gautier Paulin (FRA, YAM), 254 p
  5. Arnaud Tonus (SUI, YAM), 246 p
  6. Arminas Jasikonis (LTU, HUS), 226 p
  7. Clement Desalle (BEL, KAW), 208 p
  8. Jeremy Van Horebeek (BEL, HON), 200 p
  9. Glenn Coldenhoff (NED, KTM), 190 p
  10. Pauls Jonass (LAT, HUS), 186 p
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MX2 Report

The Kegums track offered plenty of lines and passing opportunities but none of that worried Prado who won the opening moto from Jago Geerts, Thomas Kjer Olsen, Ben Watson and Maxime Renaux before dominating the second moto over Geerts, Kjer Olsen, Watson and Adam Sterry.

MXGP Latvia Rnd Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado – MXGP of Latvia 2019
Jorge Prado

“It is my first time to win here, I was fourth two times here. I won the qualification race and two races today, so that makes me happy. Another great weekend going 1-1 and making the gap bigger in the points. I felt comfortable and I want to thank the team, my family and my girlfriend. It is making me stay in the top level like I am doing now.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Jorge Prado
Jorge Prado – MXGP of Latvia 2019
Jago Geerts

“Pretty good start, but the first three corners I messed up a little, I tried everything I could do to pass Thomas and I am really happy with the weekend.”

Thomas Kjer Olsen

“I am finally getting good starts and being up there I learn a lot. The speed is high from the beginning and it is a bummer I couldn’t stay there, but I gave my all and I want to thank everyone behind me.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Thomas Kjer Olsen
Thomas Kjer Olsen – MXGP of Latvia 2019

Aussie Jed Beaton went 10-13 for 10th overall on the day while Mitch Evans was forced to sit out the qualifying race after crashing hard during qualifying. This gave him the most outside gate in both GP races but it was looking good after a ninth in Moto 1, before a massive over-the-bars crash in Moto 2 relegated the Honda rider to 22nd for 15th overall.

Evans and Beaton are now 7th and 13th in the MX2 championship points respectively but nothing is surer that these two are cementing themselves as worthy of their factory rides.

Mitchell Evans

“Tough day, finishing ninth and twenty-second. A crash in moto two ruined my chances of achieving my goal of two top-ten finishes today.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Mitch Evans
Mitch Evans – MXGP of Latvia 2019
Jed Beaton

“It’s been a really tough GP for me, but I’m pleased I came away with points in both motos. I got sick with the flu on Thursday before the race and I really struggled with a fever and low energy. I worked hard during the qualification race and did all that I could during today’s motos.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd Jed Beaton
Jet Beaton – MXGP of Latvia 2019

MX2 Overall Top Ten

  1. Jorge Prado (ESP, KTM), 50 points
  2. Jago Geerts (BEL, YAM), 44 p
  3. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, HUS), 40 p
  4. Ben Watson (GBR, YAM), 36 p
  5. Bas Vaessen (NED, KTM), 29 p
  6. Maxime Renaux (FRA, YAM), 29 p
  7. Tom Vialle (FRA, KTM), 26 p
  8. Michele Cervellin (ITA, YAM), 24 p
  9. Adam Sterry (GBR, KAW), 22 p
  10. Jed Beaton (AUS, HUS), 19 p.;
    …15. Mitch Evans, 12 p

MX2 Championship Top Ten

  1. Jorge Prado (ESP, KTM), 397 p
  2. Thomas Kjer Olsen (DEN, HUS), 367 p
  3. Jago Geerts (BEL, YAM), 301 p
  4. Henry Jacobi (GER, KAW), 251 p
  5. Ben Watson (GBR, YAM), 246 p
  6. Tom Vialle (FRA, KTM), 242 p
  7. Mitchell Evans (AUS, HON), 226 p
  8. Adam Sterry (GBR, KAW), 191 p
  9. Davy Pootjes (NED, HUS), 157 p
  10. Michele Cervellin (ITA, YAM), 156 p.;
    …13. Jed Beaton – 129 p

Van De Moosdijk and Bengtson win EMX rounds in Latvia

The Latvian round for European Championship classes of EMX250 and EMX2T saw Roan Van De Moosdijk and Ken Bengtson score 1-1 moto finishes in their respective classes.

MXGP Latvia Rnd VAN DE MOOSDIJK GP PH
Roan van de Moosdijk – MXGP of Latvia 2019

EMX250

Van De Moosdijk proved to be very strong in the sand of Kegums and also closed up on new series leader Alberto Forato, who finished second overall with 3-4 results while third overall in the EMX250 class was Jeremy Sydow with 2-5 results obtaining his first podium of his career.

Roan van de Moosdijk

“Unbelievable! 1-1 for my first perfect weekend; I was first in every session in practice and in racing. The start was the key and today I was fourth leaving turn one; I soon had the lead so I could ride my own race and check out to control the race. I’m really happy that I didn’t make any mistakes today; I was riding safe in the sketchy section. I didn’t look at the standings but I know that I’ve closed the gap with the leaders again and I’m just focusing on each race. I’ve got a great family behind me at Kawasaki and F&H Racing and we can look forward confidently to Teutschenthal next weekend after taking the last two overall wins and four motos from the last five.”

MXGP Latvia Rnd VAN DE MOOSDIJK GP PH
Roan van de Moosdijk – MXGP of Latvia 2019

EMX250 – Overall Classification Top 10

  1. Roan Van De Moosdijk (NED, KAW), 50 points
  2. Alberto Forato (ITA, HUS), 38
  3. Jeremy Sydow (GER, HUS), 38
  4. Stephen Rubini (FRA, HON), 36
  5. Raivo Dankers (NED, YAM), 32
  6. Mattia Guadagnini (ITA, HUS), 29
  7. Rene Hofer (AUT, KTM), 28
  8. Bastian Boegh Damm (DEN, KTM), 27
  9. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 24
  10. Giuseppe Tropepe (ITA, YAM), 18

EMX250 – Championship Top 10

  1. Alberto Forato (ITA, HUS), 201 points
  2. Stephen Rubini (FRA, HON), 201
  3. Roan Van De Moosdijk (NED, KAW), 194
  4. Rene Hofer (AUT, KTM), 138
  5. Giuseppe Tropepe (ITA, YAM), 114
  6. Thibault Benistant (FRA, YAM), 112
  7. Jimmy Clochet (FRA, KAW), 88
  8. Josh Gilbert (GBR, HON), 86
  9. Karlis Sabulis (LAT, KTM), 74
  10. Ruben Fernandez (ESP, YAM), 73
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EMX2T

Sweden’s Ken Bengtson might have just made his debut in the EMX2T but he looked solid in the sand of Kegums. With second place overall, Team Ecomaxx Fuels team’s Mike Kras scored 2-2 results leading the series points with a two point over Verde Substance KTM team’s Brad Anderson. Third overall was Andero Lusbo with 4-3 scores.

Bengtson held on for both race wins to take the overall victory ahead of Mike Kras, Andero Lusbo, Todd Kellet and former championship leader Brad Anderson so when the dust settled Kras now has the red-plate by just two points over Anderson.

EMX2T Presented by FMF Racing – Overall Classification Top 10

  1. Ken Bengtson (SWE, HUS), 50 points
  2. Mike Kras (NED, KTM), 44
  3. Andero Lusbo (EST, HUS), 38
  4. Todd Kellett (GBR, YAM), 36
  5. Brad Anderson (GBR, KTM), 34
  6. Mario Tamai (ITA, KTM), 29
  7. Gianluca Deghi (ITA, KTM), 28
  8. Vaclav Kovar (CZE, GAS), 26
  9. Nick Leerkes (NED, KTM), 23
  10. Andrea Vendruscolo (ITA, YAM), 20

EMX2T Championship Classification Top 10

  1. Mike Kras (NED, KTM), 199 points
  2. Brad Anderson (GBR, KTM), 197
  3. Todd Kellett (GBR, YAM), 178
  4. Andero Lusbo (EST, HUS), 162
  5. Vaclav Kovar (CZE, GAS), 153
  6. Youri van t Ende (NED, KTM), 88
  7. Brad Todd (GBR, YAM), 86
  8. Andrea Vendruscolo (ITA, YAM), 79
  9. Andrea Gorini (SMR, YAM), 72
  10. Pier Filippo Bertuzzo (ITA, YAM), 72

Tomac and Cianciarulo win High Point AMA Motocross

The infamous High point Raceway has hosted the latest round of the AMA Motocross Championships and it was the Kawasaki paring of Eli Tomac and Adam Cianciarulo who have won the 450 and 250 classes respectively.

AMA MX Utah Rnd Starts JK MX HighPoint
AMA MX 2019 – High Point

450 Report

In a day of ups and downs on a brutally rut infest layout Tomac’s 3-2 effort gave him his second overall victory of the season and the 19th of his career. Ken Roczen’s second-moto win vaulted him into the runner-up spot (6-1) ahead of Jason Anderson who finished third overall on the back of 2-5 moto finishes.

AMA MX Utah Rnd Start JK MX HighPoint
AMA MX 2019 – High Point
Eli Tomac

 “Today was a unique situation by winning with 3-2 moto scores. I’m not sure if I’ve ever won a race without winning a moto. We did what we could and battled towards the front, so overall the day was good. The track had a lot of good character today, the ruts were plenty deep and the track was rough.”

AMA MX Utah Rnd Tomac JK MX HighPoint
Eli Tomac – AMA MX 2019 – High Point
Ken Roczen

“I’m glad we left today on a high note. I had a new setup in Florida and unfortunately with the weather, I’ve only been able to put a very short amount of time on it, and that’s what I started with here today. I struggled all morning with it. Going into the first moto, we went back to my Colorado setting, except with some clicker changes I’ve been running at home. However, that didn’t work for me at all. I wasn’t riding well and just went backwards in the first moto. For the second moto, I just went back to our full Colorado setup, and it was nice to see that we have a very solid base that I can go back to. I just knew exactly what the bike was going to do, and we had an incredible moto. I came from far behind after a bad start and came away with a moto win and second on the podium. It was pretty huge.”

AMA MX Utah Rnd Roczen JK MX HighPoint
Ken Roczen – AMA MX 2019 – High Point

With the win, Tomac move to a tiebreaker with Roczen in the championship point standings with 176 points apiece while teammates Zach Osborne and Anderson are tied for third, 32 points out of the lead.

Dean Ferris battled hard all day on his factory Yamaha to come home 11-11 for 11th outright to sit ninth in the championship points chase.

AMA MX Utah Rnd Ferris JK MX HighPoint
Dean Ferris – AMA MX 2019 – High Point

450 Results

  1. Eli Tomac Eli 3 – 2
  2. Ken Roczen 6 – 1
  3. Jason Anderson 2 – 5
  4. Cooper Webb 7 – 3
  5. Zach Osborne 5 – 4
  6. Marvin Musquin 4 – 7
  7. lake Baggett 1 – 15
  8. Joey Savatgy 8 – 6
  9. Justin Bogle 9 – 8
  10. Justin Barcia 10 – 10
  11. Dean Ferris 11 – 11

450 Points Standings

  1. Eli Tomac – 176
  2. Ken Roczen – 176
  3. Zach Osborne – 144
  4. Jason Anderson – 144
  5. Marvin Musquin – 139
  6. Cooper Webb – 132
  7. Justin Barcia – 99
  8. lake Baggett – 92
  9. Dean Ferris – 89
  10. Justin Bogle – 88
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250 Class Report

The opening moto was a slug fest between front runners Justin Cooper, Colt Nichols, Hunter Lawrence, Cianciarulo, Dylan Ferrandis and Chase Sexton with the layout offering a multitude of passing opportunities, but in the end it was Lawrence who got his first win on American soil over Cianciarulo, Ferrandis and Sexton.

AMA MX Utah Rnd Starts JK MX HighPoint
250 Start – AMA MX 2019 – High Point

Moto 2 was pedestrian in comparison with Cianciarulo taking the moto win for his fourth consecutive victory (2-1) of the season. Lawrence’s consistent (1-3) moto scores carried him to a career-best second overall ahead of Sexton who also had the best finish of his career with third (4-2).

AMA MX Utah Rnd Starts JK MX HighPoint
250 Start – AMA MX 2019 – High Point

Wilson Todd recovered from a poor start in the opening moto to score a solid 12th but in the second moto the current Australian MX Nationals Championship leader dropped his TLD KTM into fourth place coming out of the second corner. He then held fifth place for a large part of the early part of the moto before slipping back to 10th for 10th overall – Lawrence and Todd Currently hold down seventh and 12th respectively in the championship.

AMA MX Utah Rnd Lawrence JK MX HighPoint
Hunter Lawrence – AMA MX 2019 – High Point
Adam Cianciarulo

“I’m so grateful for these wins, they’re hard to do and I’m just stoked. The first moto was a battle from the beginning, I had a terrible start. By the time I was able to get into second, I just kind of struggled and that was it. The second moto I obviously put myself in a much better position to get the win and that is what I was able to do. I just want to keep the ball rolling heading into Jacksonville.”

AMA MX Utah Rnd Cianciarulo JK MX HighPoint
Adam Cianciarulo – AMA MX 2019 – High Point

The win helped Cianciarulo extend his championship point lead to 26 points over Cooper who could only muster ninth overall (6-9). Ferrandis remains in third, 42 points out of the lead.

AMA MX Utah Rnd Todd JK MX HighPoint
Wilson Todd – AMA MX 2019 – High Point

250 Results

  1. Adam Cianciarulo 2 – 1
  2. Hunter Lawrence 1 – 3
  3. Chase Sexton 4 – 2
  4. Dylan Ferrandis 3 – 4
  5. Colt Nichols 5 – 5
  6. J. Hampshire 9 – 6
  7. Cameron McAdoo 8 – 7
  8. Michael Mosiman 7 – 8
  9. Justin Cooper 6 – 9
  10. Wilson Todd 12 – 10

250 Points Standings

  1. Adam Cianciarulo – 186
  2. Justin Cooper – 160
  3. Dylan Ferrandis – 144
  4. Chase Sexton – 134
  5. Colt Nichols – 126
  6. Michael Mosiman – 112
  7. Hunter Lawrence – 111
  8. J. Hampshire – 104
  9. Alex Martin – 87
  10. Garrett Marchbanks – 63
    …12. Wilson Todd – 56
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Bauman Brothers Storm Laconia AFT Grand National

In a final that featured no less than three re-starts, Bronson and Briar Bauman have gone 1-2 at the inaugural Laconia AFT Twins Grand National while championship rivals in Jared Meeds, Henry Wiles and Sammy Halbert all suffered from either mechanical issues or crashes.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Twins Start AXI
AFT Twins Start – 2019 Laconia Short Track

Bronson Bauman won his first career Grand National win by a narrow margin over his brother and championship leader Briar who actually took over the lead just as the third red flag came out but because Bronson was leading the lap before he was reinstated as the leader for the restart – a lead he would not relinquish.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Twins Bauman AXI
Bronson Bauman – AFT Twins – 2019 Laconia Short Track

Henry Wiles held down third place for most of the race but crashed just before the third restart and was able to gather several places to earn a credible seventh while Sammy Halbert’s bike stopped during the first restart before Jared Mees mount suffered the sme dilemma during the second restart.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Twins Bauman ERV
Bronson Bauman – AFT Twins – 2019 Laconia Short Track

Points wise Briar has extended his championship lead over Brandon Robinson to 34 points while Mees remains in third, now 35 points behind Briar Bronson.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Twins Podium ERV
AFT Twins Podium – 2019 Laconia Short Track

AFT Twins Main Event (30 Laps)

  1. Bronson Bauman – 25p
  2. Briar Bauman – 20p
  3. Jake Johnson – 17p
  4. Jarod Vanderkooi – 15p
  5. Bryan Smith – 14p
  6. Brandon Robinson – 13p
  7. Henry Wiles – 12p
  8. Roger Hayden – 11p
  9. Jeffrey Carver Jr. – 10p
  10. Robert Pearson – 9p
    …15/DNF. Jared Mees – 4p
    …16/DNF. Sammy Halbert – 3p

AFT Twins Championship points

  1. Briar Bauman – 142
  2. Brandon Robinson – 108
  3. Jared Mees – 107
  4. Bronson Bauman – 87
  5. Jarod Vanderkooi – 85
  6. Henry Wiles – 79
  7. Jake Johnson – 70
  8. Jeffrey Carver Jr. – 70
  9. Sammy Halbert – 66
  10. Robert Pearson – 65

AFT Singles

The 20 lap AFT Singles final was also drama filled with two restarts but it was Dalton Gauthier who dominated the early running. After the first restart he lost the lead to the hard charging Mikey Rush who ran away with the win after keeping himself out of harm’s way after the second restart which saw a five lap dash to the finish.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Singles Start AXI
AFT Singles Start – 2019 Laconia Short Track

Rush got the win over Gauthier just ahead of Aussie hard charger Max Whale, who snuck his way towards the front at every restart from his seventh place starting position.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Singles ERV
AFT Singles – 2019 Laconia Short Track

Rush now has a 10 point lead in the series ahead of Gauthier with former championship leader in Jess Janisch dropping to third after a disappointing ninth at Loconia while Whale has moved to eigth in the championship.

AFT Twins Laconia Short Track Rnd Singles Podium ERV
AFT Singles Podium – 2019 Laconia Short Track

AFT Singles Main Event (20 Laps)

  1. Mikey Rush – 25 points
  2. Dalton Gauthier – 20
  3. Max Whale – 17
  4. Andrew Luker – 15
  5. Dan Bromley – 14
  6. Ryan Wells – 13
  7. James Rispoli – 12
  8. Ben Lowe – 11
  9. Jesse Janisch – 10
  10. Kevin Stollings – 9

AFT Singles Points

  1. Mikey Rush – 141
  2. Dalton Gauthier – 131
  3. Jesse Janisch – 129
  4. Dan Bromley – 114
  5. Ryan Wells – 91
  6. Shayna Texter – 69
  7. Chad Cosem – 67
  8. Max Whale – 66
  9. Morgen Mischler – 65
  10. Michael Inderbitzin – 58
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Kolodziej Wins Czech SGP

Polish racer Janusz Kolodziej admitted becoming an FIM Speedway Grand Prix winner has boosted his belief on the world stage after triumphing at the ANLAS.

Czech SGP Action byJarek Pabijan
2019 Speedway GP of Czech – Image by Jarek Pabijan

Kolodziej raced to the first SGP win of his career at the Czech Republic SGP in Prague last Saturday beating Leon Madsen, Patryk Dudek and Jason Doyle in the final.

Dudek now holds top spot in the World Championship – level on 40 points with Madsen – as the pair maintained their record of reaching every final this year. But the night belonged to an elated Kolodziej – a man competing in his first SGP season since 2011.

Janusz Kolodziej

“Now maybe after this win, I can believe more in myself and I will try to win more. But there is not too much pressure on me. The best situation for me is when I just race. I don’t like too much pressure. We will see what happens. But this is so, so amazing. I am older, but I can still win.”

Madsen was pleased to maintain his sublime start to SGP life as he made it three finals in as many rounds in what is his full-time debut season.

Leon Madsen

“It’s great, now I have a first, second and third place. I’ve been in the final and on the podium in my first three GPs. I am very happy. We are a third of the way into the season and I’m tied for first position. I am very pleased with that.”

Third-placed Dudek – the new World Championship leader by virtue of his superior FIM ranking over Madsen – admitted his ANLAS Czech SGP was no easy night after he battled his way into the semi-finals on nine points, before making it into the final after Emil Sayfutdinov dropped a chain while holding second place.

The Aussie duo of Jason Doyle and Max Fricke had their best results for 2019 with Doyle earning two wins to make his first final for the year while Fricke sensationally won three heats on his way to 13 points. Next up is the Norrbil Swedish SGP in Hallstavik on July 6.

Czech SGP Podium
2019 Speedway GP of Czech

Czech SGP Top Ten

  1. Janusz Kolodziej – 7 Rides 4 Wins = 15 points
  2. Leon Madsen – 7 Rides 2 Wins = 14
  3. Patryk Dudek – 7 Rides 1 Win = 12
  4. Jason Doyle – 6 Rides 2 Wins = 12
  5. Max Fricke – 6 Rides 3 Wins = 13
  6. Fredrik Lindgren – 6 Rides 3 Wins = 12
  7. Emil Sayfutdinov – 6 Rides 2 Wins = 11
  8. Artem Laguta – 6 Rides 2 Wins = 9
  9. Bartosz Zmarzlik – 5 Rides 1 Win = 8
  10. Maciej Janowski – 5 Rides 1 Win = 7

SGP Points Standings

  1. Patryk Dudek – 40
  2. Leon Madsen – 40
  3. Bartosz Zmarzlik – 36
  4. Fredrik Lindgren – 32
  5. Emil Sayfutdinov – 30
  6. Martin Vaculik – 28
  7. Janusz Kolodziej – 26
  8. Niels-Kristian Iversen – 24
  9. Jason Doyle – 23
  10. Artem Laguta – 22
    …14. Max Fricke – 16
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Clout and Rutledge Crowned Champions at Nowra

Nowra has hosted the 2019 King of MX Final and it was Luke Clout and Meghan Rutledge who successfully defended their thrones in Nowra in front of over 4000 spectators who enjoyed the two-day event. The Nowra event included 20 classes, and two action-packed, 10-minute, $10,000 winner-takes-all feature races.

King of MX Nowra Podium
2019 King of MX Final winners

It was a strong weekend for Luke Clout, taking all three MX1 A-grade race wins to seal the State Title before drawing the 40th gate pick. Selecting a yet-to-be-used inside gate, Luke raced to the holeshot and, ultimately, to the King of MX feature-race win.

The reigning Queen of MX, Meghan Rutledge, entered the final under an injury cloud after wrapping up the Australian Women’s Championship the previous weekend. However, two from three race wins and a dominant performance in the Queen of MX feature race saw Rutledge take the win and the $10,000 cheque.

For the newly crowned Prince of MX, Blake Fox, it wasn’t an easy run. A first-turn crash in race one put the 15-year-old in last. However, some strong, smart racing saw the KTM-mounted rider move through the field to finish second. Two impressive race wins later, and the youngster was crowned Prince of MX and the 15 years 250cc State Champion. Up-and-coming racer Taylor Thompson has made it back-to-back Princess of MX crowns after a dominant performance in the 13-u16 ladies’ class.

Luke Clout

“I can’t thank everyone enough for their support. I feel like I’m at the top of my game at the moment and to take home the MX1 State Title, as well as the King of MX race, this year is unreal. For me, the King of MX has worked out perfectly for my pre-season and mid-season Nationals campaign and it’s great to see a state championship with this many people here racing and watching. I’m full of confidence right now and I can’t wait to go racing again.”

Meghan Rutledge

“This time last week, I wasn’t even sure I’d be able to race after hurting my thumb in Manjimup, so to come to Nowra and take home both the Queen of MX race and the WMX State Title wins is unbelievable. It’s been a roller coaster of a year for me so far and, with the support of my family and sponsors, I’ve been able to achieve my goals and keep the #66 KX250F at the front of the pack.”

Dave Cooke – MNSW CEO

“What a weekend! First and foremost, I want to congratulate the Nowra club, and, in particular, Tyson, the manager of Nowra Motoplex, for turning the circuit into a world-class race track that not only provided awesome racing for the elite racers, but to those in all classes throughout the three days of racing. I also want to thank all the competitors that raced a qualifier. We had over 1600 entrants in the King of MX this year, not just from NSW but from across Australia, so to even make it to the final was an achievement in itself. To our 20 new State Motocross Champions, congratulations. NSW has some of the best racers in Australia, and the depth of talent is amazing. We’re dedicated to working hard to grow and improve motorcycle racing and we’re already working on 2020 in the Motorcycling NSW office.”


Duvall Stays with Husqvarna

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Off-Road have announced that they have agreed to terms with Thad Duvall on a two-year contract extension that will run through the 2021 season.

Thad Duvall

“I am excited to continue my relationship with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team. I love being a part of a pioneering brand and I look forward to a successful future with the team!”

Thad Duvall - Image by Simon Cudby
Thad Duvall – Image by Simon Cudby

Through seven rounds of the 2019 Amsoil Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) Series, Duvall has two wins and sits second in points, 18 behind Kailub Russell. Duvall, who has been with the team since 2017, has finished runner-up in the championship to Russell the last two years.

Tim Weigand – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Off-Road Team Manager

“I have had the privilege to work with and get to know Thad over the last three years. He is class act guy whose determination and grit is infectious. Thad is a constant front runner no matter what race series he lines up for and this is evident by his results over the last few years. I know we have yet to see his true potential and I look forward to seeing his confidence grow in the years to come. We are extremely happy and grateful Thad has chosen to continue his journey with us.”

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Desalle, Lupino and Bobryshev injured

Three prominent MXGP class riders in Clement Desalle, Alessandro Lupino and Evgeny Bobryshev are all recovering from injuries sustained at the MXGP of Russia, two weekends ago.

Alessandro Lupino injured
Alessandro Lupino

The Russian round of the FIM Motocross World Championship has been a success for Kawasaki during the past two seasons with overall GP victories for Desalle but 2019 saw the Kawasaki rider crash hard in the first race and was back on Monday in his homeland to have surgery with Doctor Claes. He underwent successful surgery to his broken left tibia-fibula but he’s also suffering from a right ankle sprain and is now entering a long recovery programme.

MXGP Rnd France Desalle GP SL
Clement Desalle – MXGP of France, 2019, Round 7

Lupino and Bobryshev also crashed in the first moto, with Lupino hit by another rider and for several seconds immediately after the incident he didn’t have any feeling in the legs. He was transferred earlier this week to Italy where Doctor Sangiorgi confirmed injury to the D11-D12-L1-L2 vertebrae of transverse processes, and a fracture of the sternum while Bobryshev suffered a broken right tibia.


Seely injured

Team Honda HRC’s Cole Seely will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2019 AMA Pro Motocross series due to a torn labrum and fractured glenoid socket, sustained when he dislocated his right shoulder in a practice crash at the Moto Sandbox in Claremont, Florida, on Tuesday, June 11.

AMA MX Rnd Seely JK MX Hangtown
Cole Seely – Image by Hoppenworld

Seely flew to California on Wednesday for further evaluation, during which it was determined that he would need to undergo surgery. Dr Warren G. Kramer, the same surgeon who operated on Seely’s shoulder in 2015, will conduct the surgery on Tuesday, June 18, at the Newport Surgical Center in Newport Beach. The recovery time is estimated to be three months.

Cole Seely

“I’m extremely sad to have to sit out the remainder of the season. I’ve been working really hard to continue to build myself up after my big injury last year, so to have another setback like this is very disappointing. It seems like I’ve had nothing but challenges. I want to thank all of my fans and my team for their support.”

HRC Contract Extended Cole Seely
Cole Seely
Erik Kehoe – Team Honda HRC Manager

“It’s really unfortunate to see Cole’s season end this way. The beginning of this season has been a challenge for him, but he showed a lot of speed during the first moto at Colorado; it’s a bummer that we won’t be able to see how he progresses. He’s had some tough luck with injuries, but he has kept a good attitude and continued to give his best effort. On behalf of the team and everyone at Honda, I wish him well during his recovery.”

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Entries open for 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships

Entries have now opened for the 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships, hosted by the Hunter Motorcycle Club at Barleigh Ranch Raceway in Eagleton, NSW on October 5-6.

Entries are now open for the Aussie Dirt Track Championships
2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships

The event also marks the first time that the new Australian Dirt Track Championship logo will be used, a move that demonstrates Motorcycling Australia’s (MA) commitment to developing a professional image for this renowned event.

Across the two-day event, the 2019 Australian Senior Dirt Track Championships will feature the following classes (subject to entries):

Championship Classes 
•    Under 19’s
•    Pro 250
•    Pro 450
•    250cc Slider
•    Pro Open
•    MX Open
•    500cc Slider
•    Pro Open Women’s
•    Sidecars
•    ATV Pro
•    ATV Open
•    ATV Open (Women)
Support Classes
•    Junior (65cc, 8 to under 12 years)
•    Junior (85/150cc, 9 to under 13 years)
•    Junior (150cc 2 stroke, 250cc 4 stroke, 13 to under 16 years)
•    Senior (Unlimited over 35 years)

Further information can be found in the Supplementary Regulations (download).

**Where there are insufficient entries for the Slider Classes, these machines may be combined with the events marked with asterisks in the table above. All machines must have one effective brake where MX and slider classes are combined.

Entries close 23 September 2019. Late entries will not be accepted. Gates open at 7AM (AEST) each day, with racing commencing immediately after the conclusion of practice and parade lap.

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MXGP of Finland back in 2020

Youthstream and Finnish based Lahti Events have announced that the FIM Motocross World Championship will make its return to Finland at the KymiRing motor circuit in 2020.

Motocross has had a great history in Finland with legendary World Champions and the last time MXGP visited Finland was back in 2014 but the 2020 MXGP of Finland has been built at KymiRing motor circuit, which is situated only 50 km from Lahti and 140 km from Helsinki.

Daniele Rizzi – Chief Operating Officer of Youthstream

“We are very happy to have come to an agreement with Lahti Events for the return of MXGP to this beautiful and innovative country. There is indeed a very innovative, ambitious, fan-oriented project behind the Finnish MXGP and we, like all parties involved, are eager to support it: it will definitely do good to the sport. This event will add a bit of Motocross fashion to the outstanding location of KymiRing which, thanks to Lahti Events’ choice of venue, will broaden its horizons to include the sport of Motocross in its program”

MXGP of Finland and Lahti Events Project Director Jesse Kiuru Youthstream COO Daniele Rizzi and FIMCMS Director Antonio Alia Portela
MXGP of Finland back in 2020
Kurt Ljungqvist – Managing Director of Finnish Motorcycling Federation

“World Championship races have always a very special meaning when it comes to awareness of the sport. When the youth gets to see the stars of the motocross world championship ride, it awakes an interest to try the sport and eventually they become our future stars and champions. The return of the race to our home soil also creates good opportunities to make it to the highest level of the sport and serves as a good motivator to believe in success and reaching the World Championship level. Motorcycling federation is very happy that Lahti Events has chosen to bring the highest level of motocross to the future heart of motorsport, the KymiRing circuit,”

Emilia Mäki – Managing Director of Koko Lahti

“The MXGP of Finland in 2020 will be our first ever motocross race for our Lahti Events company at the KymiRing and with this event we will set the standards of this venue. As the event organizer in Lahti region, we can also guarantee that the events will have their presence regionally,”

Finland is also home race of Ice1racing team; Antti Pyrhönen, former motocross rider himself, is one of the internationally known faces of Finnish motocross and he is currently the Team Manager of Team Ice1Racing, now Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing owned by the F1 driver Kimi Räikkönen.

Antti Pyrhönen

“The return of MXGP to Finland after several years is great news for our team, whose origins are in Finland and whose owner is Finnish, too. I’m sure that all the MX community, including teams and riders, will be also very excited to be back to Finland for an MXGP event.”

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Source: MCNews.com.au