Image: Supplied.

Monster Energy Wilvo Yamaha MXGP’s Gautier Paulin says his top three finish at Mantova’s fifth round of the 2019 MXGP World Championship was unexpected after lodging a 6-4 scorecard.

Paulin, who has transferred to the Yamaha squad for 2019 after previously racing aboard Husqvarna machinery, put on a consistent display in rain-soaked conditions at the Italian round, boosting the Frenchman’s confidence in just the early stages of his campaign.

“Today we had a difficult track, but we worked really hard over the last five weeks and made a big step forwards with the bike,” Paulin commented.

“I didn’t expect this result, but I am happy to be on the box. I am already looking forward to the next GP in Portugal, I really enjoy the track there so I can’t wait to get back behind the gate.”

Paulin sits third in the championship rankings as the series returns to action this weekend at Agueda for the MXGP of Portugal.