While Ducati have forged ahead with their adoption of V4 power for much of their large capacity range they have not been forgetting their L-Twin roots. In fact, with World Supersport set to be revitalised in 2022 and the likes of Oli Bayliss racing the Panigale V2 in the category, we will again be seeing more twin-cylinder Ducatis not only on the street, but also back in competition.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
For those that like their sportsbikes without clothes, Ducati are also offering a new Streetfighter V2.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
Powered by a short-stroke 955 cc Superquadro twin making 153 horsepower, it might be 55 horsepower down on the latest Streetfighter V4, but it still packs 40 horsepower more than the fabled 916 sportsbike, and 15 more ponies than the last model to share that iconic styling, the delectable 998 R. So clearly, it’s no slouch!
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
What we have is basically a Panigale V2 stripped of its bodywork and without the clip-ons. In their place we have a shallow bend single piece handlebar that positions the rider in a more street friendly riding position. It also runs a couple more teeth on the rear sprocket to shorten the gearing for street work.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The Superquadro engine is used as a bearing element connecting the compact front structure, consisting of a monocoque frame in die-cast aluminium fixed to the engine head. The single-sided swingarm, which is also connected to the engine, is 16 mm longer compared to that of the Panigale V2 which adds further stability.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
Suspension consists of a 43 mm diameter Showa BPF front fork, fully-adjustable in compression and rebound damping and spring preload. The control of the front end is completed by a Sachs steering damper. A progressive link operates the fully-adjustable Sachs rear shock absorber. The side-mounted shock absorber allows quick access to all adjustments, the link is moved by a single-arm cast in aluminum.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
Except for the adoption of brake pads characterised by a less aggressive bite, more suitable for road use, the whole braking system is faithfully taken from the Panigale V2 and features Brembo M4-32 monobloc radial calipers with 320 mm diameter discs.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The comprehensive and modern electronics are also inherited from the Panigale V2. The 6-axis IMU inertial platform manages all the electronic controls of the bike and gives the position of the bike in space in real time, sending the information to the control units that manage the controls.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The electronic package includes: ABS Cornering EVO with “slide by brake” functionality, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2, Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The Streetfighter V2 features three different Riding Modes (Sport, Road, Wet) with dedicated control settings. The electronic equipment can be enhanced by a range of accessories of the Ducati Performance catalogue: Ducati Data Analyzer (DDA + GPS) and Ducati Multimedia System.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The bike is equipped with full-LED headlights with front DRL and a 4.3-inch full-TFT dashboard with an intuitive interface that recalls the Streetfighter V4 family-feeling.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The Ducati Performance catalogue features an extended range of accessories, like the biplane wings, faithfully derived from the Streetfighter V4, designed to guarantee a downforce of 28 kg at 265 km/h. Furthermore, a complete Akrapovič racing exhaust is still available, which boosts power to 157 hp and reduces the weight by 7 kg. A single-seater kit and many other components that enhance the look and characteristics of the bike will also be available for the bling kings.
2022 Ducati Streetfighter V2
The Streetfigher V2 is scheduled to arrive in Australia from February, 2022, and will start from $22,500 Ride Away.
Free Dark Tint Visor with select Shoei helmets in November!
If you’re looking for a new lid, now’s the right time to check out the Shoei range, with X-Spirit III, NXR2, NXR, Glamster, Ex-Zero and J.O helmets receiving a bonus dark tint visor during November, while stocks last!
The dark tint visors are valued up to $119 and help increase visibility on those bright summer days that were just made for riding. Not only do they protect against 99% of the sun’s UV rays, the dark tint means you’re not having to ride with sunglasses, improving your field of vision.
A tinted visor can help reduce eye fatigue too – allowing you to concentrate for longer – while also helping reduce the heat in your helmet by blocking sun from directly hitting your face.
Here’s a quick look at each of the helmets that currently benefit from this deal:
Shoei X-Spirit III
Shoei’s X-Spirit III is track certified by Marc Marquez – the fastest road racer on the planet. The X-Spirit III is a proven race weapon for those who aren’t willing to sacrifice a single detail when it comes to high-end performance.
Shoe X-Spirit III
Like the handcrafted race bikes that dominate MotoGP’s premiere racing circuits, every detail of the X-Spirit III was carefully designed, tested and fine-tuned until this final, uncompromised helmet was born.
Dark tint visors available are the 1112345 (CWR-1) and 1114799 (CWR-F).
Shoei NXR2
The very latest performance helmet model in the Shoei line-up is the all new NXR2. The process of improving is a constant evolution, and with a world-class team of designers and engineers leading the charge on the development of this helmet, which improves on the popular NXR platform.
Shoei NXR2
Utilising a state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, extensive array of proprietary materials, and the industry’s most stringent quality assurance practices, Shoei developed the all-new NXR2.
The dark tint visor 1122353 (CWR-F2) is available for the NXR2.
Shoei NXR
Shoei utilised its 55-year wealth of knowledge, state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility, proprietary materials, and the industry’s most stringent quality assurance practices to develop the original NXR helmet, the successor to the NXR2.
A lighter, more compact, streamlined helmet with next-level functionality, Shoei’s NXR is as home at the track as it is on the road.
The Shoei NXR takes dark tint visor 1112345 (CWR-1).
Shoei Glamster
The Glamster is the latest addition to Shoei’s neo-classic series and offers the comfort and safety of a modern full face helmet with genuine vintage style.
Shoei Glamster
It features a multi-ply matrix AIM shell, dual layer multi-density EPS liner, exceptional ventilation performance and a micro ratchet strap retention system. The CPB-1 dark tint visor is available for this lid (1120712).
Shoei Ex-Zero
Classic design is blended with modern technology and performance in the Ex-Zero helmet. Based on the classic Shoei designs of yesteryear, the Ex-Zero combines Shoei’s unique AIM lightweight composite shell, with a multi-density four piece inner EPS liner to create a super-lightweight helmet, with Shoei’s signature high-level performance, quality and safety.
Shoei Ex-Zero Helmet
The dark tint visor available for the Shoei Ex-Zero is 1114796 (CJ-3).
Shoei J.O
Whether you ride a custom classic or modern retro, the Shoei J•O will match your ride, with no compromise on safety and comfort.
A classic open face helmet with visor, it features a multi-ply matrix AIM shell, dual layer multi-density EPS liner, interior comfort system and rear goggle strap to hold your goggles in place at speed. A CJ-3 dark tint visor is available – 1114796.
The brake light may remain illuminated when the front brakes are not applied.
What are the hazards?
If this occurs the traffic behind the vehicle will be unable to identify whether the motorcycle is actually braking. This may lead to an accident causing injury or death to the rider and/or passenger and/or other road users.
What should consumers do?
Owners of affected motorcycles can contact their nearest Harley-Davidson Australia dealer immediately and arrange an appointment to have the master cylinder rebuilt free of charge.
The 2021 FIM MiniGP World Final was an incredible conclusion to the first season of the FIM MiniGP World Series. Two races worth standards points and then the Super Final Race – worth double points – decided the Champion, with FIM MiniGP Spain Series rider Izan Rodriguez coming out on top after doing the triple.
2021 FIM MiniGP World Series Final Points 1. Izan Rodriguez (SPA) 100 – Age 11 2. Pablo Olivares (SPA) 66 – Age 13 3. Cristian Borrelli (ITA) 65 – Age 11
Spain’s Pablo Olivares came second overall and took two podiums, with Italian Cristian Borrelli was third overall after also finishing on the rostrum twice.
Race One
After Qualifying Race that saw the top two move through, the first points on offer were decided. Rodriguez got the perfect start and the holeshot, but Olivares was close on the chase.
Ireland vs Italy decided some final steps on the podium!
They took a 1-2 for Spain, with Irish lad O’Brien impressing to convert fourth on the grid to a podium finish in P3.
12-year-old Josh O’Brien from Ireland scored a podium
Race Two
With one more rider on the grid, the winner of Qualifying Race 2, there were 25 more points up for grabs and Rodriguez once again took an early lead. He had Olivares as his shadow again too, with the two eventually crossing the line split by almost nothing in another 1-2.
This time around, the close fight for the podium was won by Cristian Borrelli as the FIM MiniGP Italy Series rider made an impressive step forward.
2021 FIM MiniGP World Series
Super Final Race
With 50 points on the line it all came down to the final race, and this time around Rodriguez didn’t get the holeshot – closest rival Olivares did. But it didn’t take too long for the points leader to strike back and attack, taking over in the lead once again.
Olivares then got embroiled in the group fight behind, and Rodriguez pulled away to take his third win of the day to underline his domination of the event. Borrelli and compatriot Edoardo Liguori came out on top in the group scrap, taking second and third respectively.
Championship Standings
Izan Rodriguez took a clean sweep to become the inaugural Champion and Olivares made it a Spanish 1-2 on the back of his two second places and a fourth.
With a perfect score 11-year-old Spaniard Izan Rodriguez is the 2021 FIM MiniGP World Champion
Italian Cristian Borrelli’s progress throughout the day was rewarded with third overall, just one points off Olivares.
Borrelli impressed to move up and end the day third overall
13-year-old Italian Edoardo took fourth in the standings after the first MiniGP World Final, with Ireland Series star Josh O’Brien continuing his pace in Race 2 and the Super Final to lock out P5 for 2021.
With a perfect score 11-year-old Spaniard Izan Rodriguez is the 2021 FIM MiniGP World Champion
Motorcycling Australia and Ohvale Australia have worked closely over the past 12 months to secure Australia’s involvement in the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series. The FIM MiniGP World Series is a Road to MotoGP initiative between Dorna, FIM and Ohvale Europe which made its debut in 2021.
Australia now joins Italy, Malaysia, France, Netherlands, North America, Spain, UK, Alpe Adria, Indonesia, Ireland, Portugal, Qatar and Austria as host countries, launching the FIM MiniGP Australia Series for 2022.
FIM MiniGP Australia Series
The Series provides an ideal entry level platform for young Australian riders looking to begin their two-wheeled motorsport journey. The new Road to MotoGP program will take part utlising Ohvale GP-0 160 machinery designed specifically for racing on karting circuits – a perfect entry level platform for kids aged between 10-14 years old, new to the sport of motorcycling.
The winners from each national, regional or continental MiniGP Cup will have the opportunity to participate in the World MiniGP Final in Europe.
The FIM MiniGP Australia Series is the first in the Oceania region, which will feature 10 races over five rounds on the Ohvale Australia racing machines.
Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle, said the FIM MiniGP World Series was an exciting opportunity for Australian riders.
“Motorcycling Australia is very excited to see Australia join the 2022 FIM MiniGP World Series putting Australia’s sensational racing talent on the World stage,” Mr Doyle said.
“We are pleased to support Series promoters Ohvale Australia, and the 2022 FIM MiniGP Australia Series will not only provide spectacular on track action but give riders their first steps to potentially becoming a future World Champion.
“We see the FIM MiniGP Australia Series as a crucial steppingstone for young Australian riders wanting to develop their racing skills.”
FIM MiniGP World Series
Ohvale Australia and joint promoter multiple Australian Superbike Champion, Wayne Maxwell said this was an exciting opportunity for young Australia riders and encouraged them to register their interest now.
“We are very thankful for the support of Motorcycling Australia and the FIM in securing what will be a phenomenal first for Australia, the 2022 FIM MiniGP Australia Series,” Mr Maxwell said.
“We are very excited for what this Series will bring to racing and the development of young riders.
“My dream is to one day see a young talent from Mini GP become a World Champion
“The Ohvale GP-O machine are now in stock and come with a race kit for MiniGP.
“Each bike has a factory sealed engine from Ohvale to ensure parity. Ohvale will provide technical support in the way of spare parts, from crash damage to engines.”
Riders must be between 10 and 14-years of age and will compete on Ohvale Australia GP-0 160 machines with Pirelli tyres – Pirelli are the official single tyre supplier for all the FIM MiniGP Series.
The winner qualifies for the FIM MiniGP World Final.
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.”
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!”
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