2nd place on MotoGP (an impressive position, considering over a third of the 2022 GP grid was Team Red), is accompanied this year by an additional six World Champ titles won for KTM in MX2 Motocross (Tom Vialle), Hard Enduro (Manuel Lettenbichler), Flat Track (Gerard Bailo) and Moto2 (Augusto Fernandez).
Bottom line, it’s obvious KTM means business; question is, what’s next in store for KTM as a brand?
Given the recent debut of the brand’s insane supersport RC8C, we’re thinking a win in MotoGP is a big short-term goal, second only to increasing distribution of their bikes on a global scale. They’re here to show off “purity of design and uncompromising function” as a priority, with any titles won being a cause-and-effect perk of that equation.
Expect to see the Austrians hard at work as 2023’s season fast approaches; 2022’s quadruple-category monopoly may have been a big achievement for Team Orange, but we’re expecting more for 2023 – especially given their recent activity with Chinese brand CFMoto.
AFT Singles Championship contender Max Whale has signed a two-year deal to remain with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team through the 2023 American Flat Track Championship, after another successful season in 2021.
Max Whale – Image by Scott Hunter
In his fourth season in the class, the Aussie has established himself as a force in the AFT Singles division as he prepares to battle down to the wire for the coveted title, which is mathematically still up for grabs at the Charlotte Half-Mile finale next month. With four Main Event victories and four top-five finishes in his first season with the team, Whale continues to build on his solid platform aboard the KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION for the next two seasons.
Max Whale
“I am so pumped to sign a two-year extension with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team. I’ve been having an awesome time this year with my team, racking up victories and points! I’m excited for the next two years of my career with the crew.”
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Australia finishes fourth in Team Speedway U21s
Three Australian speedway riders flew the national flag at the FIM Team Speedway Under 21 World Championship finale in Poland. Matthew Gilmore, Keynan Rew and Brayden McGuiness carried Australia’s hopes in Bydgoszcz, Poland, against some of the best speedway teams in the world, and missed out on a bronze medal by just a single point.
Team Poland won on home soil, Wiktor Lampart and Jakub Miśkowiak didn’t give any chance to their rivals. The podium was completed by the Danes and quite unexpectedly the British. The Team Junior World Championships final in Bydgoszcz was held in the format which fans know from Speedway of Nations.
Team Captain Matthew Gilmore
“It has been an konour to Captain “Team Australia” in the FIM Team Speedway U21 World Championship. It was great to ride along side Keynan and Brayden, we gave it our best and finished fourth in the world. Thanks go out to Aussie Team Manager Mark Lemon for all his organisation, advice and encouragement which was greatly appreciated by us Joeys. Thanks also to Motorcycling Australia for your ongoing support. To my sponsors, family, friends and followers that have supported me, thanks. It has been an absolute privilege to have the opportunity to represent Australia and I was fortunate to do so, Thanks again MGR. Craig Watson, GM Engines, Signworx Group, C4 Industries, LAR (Leigh Adams Racing), JTR, KLS Denmark, GM Australia, LKI Brand, Scott Brown Flooring & Chris Watson Motorcycles.”
Team Captain Matthew Gilmore, Keynan Rew and Brayden McGuiness – Image: Facebook
Team Speedway U21s Results
I. Team Poland- 45 7. Jakub Miśkowiak – 21+3 (0,4,3*,3*,4,3*,4) 8. Wiktor Lampart – 24+2 (4,3*,4,4,3*,4,2) 18. Mateusz Cierniak – NS
II. Team Denmark – 35 3. Mads Hansen – 17+1 (4,4,d,-,4,2,3*) 4. Tim Soerensen – 7+1 (2,-,2,3*,w,-) 16. Marcus Birkemose – 11+1 (3*,4,4,0)
III. Team Great Britain – 27 9. Tom Brennan – 20 (4,2,4,2,4,4) 10. Drew Kemp – 5+1 (3*,0,2,-,-,d) 19. Leon Flint – 2 (0,2)
IV. Team Australia – 26 13. Matthew Gilmore – 9+1 (2,3*,0,2,2,0) 14. Keynan Rew – 17 (3,4,3,0,4,3) 21. Brayden McGuinness – NS
V. Team Czech Rep. – 23 5. Daniel Klima – 5 (-,-,3,0,-,2) 6. Jan Macek – 6 (3,0,-,-,0,3) 17. Petr Chlupac – 12 (2,2,2,3,3)
VI. Team Latvia – 22 1. Francis Gusts – 15 (3,4,4,4,w,0) 2. Ricards Ansviesulis – 0 (0,-,0,-,-,-) 15. Daniił Kołodinski – 7 (d,2,3,2)
VII. Team Sweden – 20 11. Philip Hellstroem-Baengs – 14 (2,t,t,3,4,3,2) 12. Alexander Woentin – 6 (0,2,-,2,2,-) 20. Jonatan Grahn – 0 (0,0)
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Malcolm Steward joins Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing
The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team and Malcolm Stewart have inked a two-year deal to join the team’s 450 efforts in both AMA Supercross World Championship and AMA Pro Motocross racing. The 28-year-old Florida native will pilot the FC 450 Rockstar Edition for the 2022 and 2023 race seasons, beginning on January 8 with the Anaheim SX season opener.
Malcolm Stewart
“I’m really excited to have a full indoor/outdoor deal that’s sealed for two years. It’s definitely a great opportunity for me and I think there’s nothing but positive vibes coming from me. I’ve always wanted to ride one of these Husqvarna motorcycles, I’ve seen everybody in the past do very well on it. We’ve been putting in the work this summer. Having a new training program going with Aldon Baker, I know there’s going to be a lot of big changes for me but I’m looking forward to it all. I’ve seen the successes that have happened through The Baker’s Factory and I want to be a part of those people, so I feel that this is a good opportunity for me in these next two years to go out there and do the best that I can.”
Malcolm Stewart – Image by Jeff Kardas
Fresh off his best-career Supercross season with sixth overall in 2021, the 2016 250SX East Champion earned his first 450SX podium at the penultimate round in Salt Lake City before finishing the year out strong with a top-five result. Now, with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team behind him, Stewart looks to keep the momentum rolling as he prepares to attack both Supercross and Motocross for the first time since 2014.
“It’s been a while since I’ve done the outdoors but I feel like racing is racing – anytime the gate drops there’s no negative vibes and it’s always going to be a positive. You live and you learn something from it, so let’s just get ready because that #27 is going to be out there!”
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Marvin Musquin extends KTM contract through 2022 SX season
Marvin Musquin has locked in a deal to remain with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team through the 2022 AMA Supercross Championship. Entering his 12th season with the U.S. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team in 2022, the French rider has become synonymous with the brand thanks to his top level of performance and commitment within the sport.
Marvin Musquin
Enjoying success at the last two rounds of the 2021 AMA Supercross Championship, the 31-year-old has proven that he still has plenty to give as he charges full-steam ahead towards a career-first 450SX title come January.
Marvin Musquin
“I’m really happy to extend my contract for another year making 12 years racing in the U.S. and 14 years in total with the with the Red Bull KTM family! It’s no secret that everyone on the team is like family to me. It will be another fun challenge working with the new bike, which will be a lot more work but that’s exciting! I look forward to focusing my efforts on the Supercross series and to the Supercross schedule being back to normal starting back at Anaheim in January!”
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2021 Speedway of Nations semi-finale squads confirmed
The national squads for the 2021 Monster Energy FIM Speedway of Nations have been revealed. The competition gets underway with the Semi-Finals at Latvian venue Daugavpils on September 17 and 18.
Poland face off against Sweden, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Finland, Slovenia and the USA in Semi-Final 1 on Friday, September 17, with hosts Latvia taking on MFR, Australia, Germany, France, Italy and the Ukraine in Semi-Final 2 on Saturday, September 18.
Team Australia at the 2020 Speedway of Nations
Each country must list a squad of two or three senior riders, plus one or two under-21s, before naming their final starting line-up next week, featuring two seniors and one under-21.
World champion Bartosz Zmarzlik has been named in Poland’s squad ahead of Semi-Final 1, with Maciej Janowski returning to the group after missing the 2020 tournament.
Last year’s under-21 star Dominik Kubera is handed a dream call-up to complete the list of seniors, having reached both Orlen Lublin FIM Speedway Grand Prix of Poland finals on a sensational SGP debut weekend last month.
Lublin star Wiktor Lampart and Czestochowa racer Jakub Miskowiak are Poland’s under-21 options as team manager Rafal Dobrucki names his first SON squad since taking charge of his country.
The Danes name SGP stars Leon Madsen and Anders Thomsen in their senior spots, along with European champion Mikkel Michelsen.
Speedway of Nations
FIM Speedway Under-21 World Championship leader Mads Hansen and Jonas Seifert-Salk serve as their under-21s.
World No.3 Fredrik Lindgren leads the Swedish selections and he is joined by double Swedish champion Jacob Thorssell and 2021 Swedish Championship runner-up Pontus Aspgren.
Team manager Morgan Andersson names Philip Hellstrom-Bangs and Alexander Woentin as his under-21s.
Vaclav Milik leads the Czech list and he is joined by veteran Josef Franc and Prague prospect Daniel Klima. Anlas Czech SGP wild card Jan Kvech and Petr Chlupac are their under-21 options.
American shooting star Luke Becker is in the USA squad, alongside Broc Nicol and Dillon Ruml. Blake Borello and Anthony Dion are their under-21s.
Matic Ivacic leads the Slovenian line-up alongside former World Under-21 finalist Nick Skorja. Anze Grmek is their sole under-21 rider in a three-man squad.
The Finns select Timo Lahti, Tero Aarnio and Jesse Mustonen as their senior stars, with Timi Salonen and Roni Niemela their under-21s.
Hosts Latvia take to the shale in Semi-Final 2 on Saturday, September 18, with former European champion Andzejs Lebedevs named in their squad, alongside fellow 2021 GP Challenge finalist Jevgenijs Kostigovs and last year’s World Under-21 Final bronze medallist Olegs Mihailovs.
FIM Speedway of Nations
Current World Under-21 finalists Francis Gusts and Daniils Kolodinskis are their junior stars.
MFR are without their triple world title-winning pair Emil Sayfutdinov and Artem Laguta, with Sergei Logachev and Vladimir Borodulin representing the reigning champions.
Lublin rider Mark Karion is their sole under-21 as team manager Tatiana Savina names a three-man squad.
Australian team manager Mark Lemon has selected 2017 world champion Jason Doyle, along with SGP 2022 qualifier Max Fricke and Jack Holder. Young guns Keynan Rew and World Under-21 finalist Matthew Gilmore are in line for the under-21 position.
Former SGP regular Martin Smolinski and Kai Huckenbeck team up for Germany and they are joined by under-21 Nick Blodorn in a three-man squad.
The French select Masarna colleagues David Bellego and Dimitri Berge, with World Under-21 finalist Steven Goret named as their under-21 rider on a three-man list.
SGP first reserve Aleksandr Loktaev is nominated by the Ukraine alongside Vitalii Lisak and Stanislav Melnychuk. Their under-21 riders are Marko Levishyn and Andryi Rozaliuk.
The Italians complete the field for Semi-Final 2 and they name Nicolas Covatti, Paco Castagna and Nicolas Vicentin in their squad. Michele Menani is their sole under-21 selection.
The top two teams from each Semi-Final automatically join hosts Great Britain in the Monster Energy SON Final in Manchester on October 16 and 17.
The third and fourth-placed teams in both of the Daugavpils rounds will then compete in the Final Qualifier at the end of each night for the two remaining places in the Final, where the 2021 Monster Energy SON world champion will be crowned.
MONSTER ENERGY SON SEMI-FINAL SQUADS (in draw order): SEMI-FINAL 1 – FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
TEAM A – USA
1. Broc Nicol
2. Luke Becker
3. Dillon Ruml
U21 1. Blake Borello
U21 2. Anthony Dion
Team Manager: Steve Evans
TEAM B – POLAND
1. Maciej Janowski
2. Dominik Kubera
3. Bartosz Zmarzlik
U21 1. Wiktor Lampart
U21 2. Jakub Miskowiak
Team Manager: Rafal Dobrucki
TEAM C – CZECH REPUBLIC
1. Vaclav Milik
2. Josef Franc
3. Daniel Klima
U21 1. Jan Kvech
U21 2. Petr Chlupac
Team Manager: Filip Sitera
TEAM D – DENMARK
1. Leon Madsen
2. Mikkel Michelsen
3. Anders Thomsen
U21 1. Mads Hansen
U21 2. Jonas Seifert-Salk
Team Manager: Hans Nielsen
TEAM E – SLOVENIA
1. Matic Ivacic
2. Nick Skorja
U21 1. Anze Grmek
Team Manager: Gregor Arnsek
TEAM F – SWEDEN
1. Fredrik Lindgren
2. Pontus Aspgren
3. Jacob Thorssell
U21 1. Philip Hellstrom-Bangs
U21 2. Alexander Woentin
Team Manager: Morgan Andersson
TEAM G – FINLAND
1. Timo Lahti
2. Tero Aarnio
3. Jesse Mustonen
U21 1. Timi Salonen
U21 2. Roni Niemela
Team Manager: Jyri Palomaki
SEMI-FINAL 2 – SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
TEAM A – ITALY
1. Nicolas Covatti
2. Paco Castagna
3. Nicolas Vicentin
U21 1. Michele Menani
Team Manager: Alessandro Dalla Valle
TEAM B – AUSTRALIA
1. Jason Doyle
2. Max Fricke
3. Jack Holder
U21 1. Keynan Rew
U21 2. Matthew Gilmore
Team Manager: Mark Lemon
TEAM C – UKRAINE
1. Aleksandr Loktaev
2. Vitalii Lisak
3. Stanislav Melnychuk
U21 1. Marko Levishyn
U21 2. Andryi Rozaliuk
Team Manager: Sergey Lyatosinskyy
TEAM D – MFR
1. Sergei Logachev
2. Vladimir Borodulin
U21 1. Mark Karion
Team Manager: Tatiana Savina
TEAM E – LATVIA
1. Andzejs Lebedevs
2. Jevgenijs Kostigovs
3. Olegs Mihailovs
U21 1. Francis Gusts
U21 2. Daniils Kolodinskis
Team Manager: Vladimir Ribnikovs
TEAM F – GERMANY
1. Kai Huckenbeck
2. Martin Smolinski
U21 1. Nick Blodorn
Team Manager: Herbert Rudolph
TEAM G – FRANCE
1. David Bellego
2. Dimitri Berge
U21 1. Steven Goret
Team Manager: Laurent Sambarrey
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Motoland teams up with Motorcycling Queensland
Queensland’s newest motocross destination, Motoland is teaming up with the state’s governing body for motorcycle sport and recreation – Motorcycling Queensland. In a first for motocross in Queensland and one of the first in Australia, a private entity will align with the state controlling body, and a local motocross club, to deliver a motocross destination – located at the historic Tivoli Raceway site near Ipswich.
Todd Waters, laid the first tracks at Motoland yesterday, to offer feedback in the final stages of the build
The purpose of the alliance is to not only create an incredible facility for the benefit of south-east Queenslanders, but also to drive motocross participation and grass-roots competition in the region.
In addition to three brand new tracks, designed to cater for all skill levels, Motoland’s facilities off the track, promise to be the best in the region. The park will boast multiple raised viewing areas, quality toilets and amenities and a brand new cafe and retail space. Bailey reiterated, that at Motoland, the consumer experience off the track, will be as important as the one on it.
Details of Motoland’s operating times, pricing and booking information will be provided in the coming weeks, with an official open day expected to be announced for the early stages of October. To register for your chance to be one of the first to ride Motoland, go to www.motoland.com.au.
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Toni Bou leaves Spanish TrialGP one-point off title
Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou rode to a fine victory in Pobladura de las Regueras, León, in the seventh round of the TrialGP World Championship.
The course of this seventh event of the elite trial competition played out over varied terrain with river areas offering little grip and indoor-style areas featuring logs and stones, with riders having to complete two laps of the twelve-section course.
Repsol Honda Team rider Toni Bou dominated the first of the double-date event in Pobladura de las Regueras with an excellent showing, finishing with a total of sixteen marks, twenty less than the nearest second-placed rider, arch rival Adam Raga. Bou continues to lead the overall TrialGP World Championship standings, currently fourteen points clear of the second-placed adversary.
Bou also won for the second day running in the trial at Pobladura de las Regueras, León, to secure a sixth win of the season. Bou increased his lead in the championship standings to 19 points. Fujinami finished seventh.
Toni Bou
As had been expected, Toni Bou had to struggle somewhat at the trial in Pobladura de las Regueras today. Opponent Jaime Busto put the pressure on the champion and it wasn’t until the very final sections that the event swung in favour of the Repsol Honda Team rider. With the triumph, the sixth of the season, Toni Bou increases the gap at the head of the overall championship, now holding a 19-point lead over second-placed rider Adam Raga. Bou needs just a single point next Saturday to be crowned 2021TrialGP champion.
The final event of the 2021 Trial World Championship will be held next Saturday in Gouveia, Portugal. The following day, Sunday 19, the Trial of Nations is scheduled to take place in the same Portuguese town.
Toni Bou
“We battled hard throughout the trial. I made a mistake in section 8 and I knew that section 11 would be my last chance, I took a gamble and it worked out well. Winning in the final sections is an incredible feeling. I want to congratulate Jaime Busto because he was really strong, not just today but all weekend and I think this is very good for trial. There will be a great final battle with Adam Raga. This is very nice and adds more value to the wins. I’m 19 points ahead in the general standings, but before the last race in Portugal anything could happen. This week I will have to be careful and for the final race we will have to be very focused so that we don’t have any mechanical issues or anything that could prevent us from winning the world championship.”
Toni Bou topped the Spanish TrialGP podium from Busto and RagaMoto News Weekly proudly brought to you by Dunlop
Following hot on the heels of the hugely successful Abestone Hard Enduro, the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship continues at pace less than one week from today, when the infamous Red Bull Romaniacs welcomes competitors for the 18th edition of the world’s number one Hard Enduro Rallye.
Red Bull Romaniacs is a bucket-list race for every aspiring Hard Enduro rider, professional or amateur. World-renowned, it’s only natural then to see that competitors from many different nations have once again signed up to compete. In total, approximately 50 nations will be strongly represented with people travelling from as far as Canada, Peru and Australia and we’ll see a whopping 47 Gold class riders take to the start line.
Red Bull Romaniacs never fails to deliver surprises. No two editions are ever the same. In the past we’ve seen the race have overnight stays away from host city Sibiu, but for 2021 organisers are taking things one step further. A marathon stage – two days combined – will be highlighted with a night in the mountains and under the stars. With no outside assistance allowed, riders have got to work on their own bikes and sleep in a tent. Don’t forget your toothbrush guys n’ girls!
A Hard Enduro Rallye like Red Bull Romaniacs always attracts a little bit of crazy and for 2021 Pol Tarres is bringing the goods! Normally found competing in Gold class, he’s stepped back to Bronze this year, but for good reason. Armed with a 200kg Yamaha Tenere 700, he’s attempting to become the first rider to finish in this category on a two-cylinder adventure motorcycle. We wish him luck!
To finish a race like Red Bull Romaniacs is one heck of an accomplishment – winning the event etches your name into Hard Enduro folklore. Legend Graham Jarvis sits at the top table when it comes to the Red Bull Romaniacs Hall of Fame with six wins and is more than capable of making it seven.
Can Jarvis do it again?
Of those also entered for 2021, Manuel Lettenbichler has won the previous two editions, Wade Young was victorious in 2018, while Jonny Walker holds two wins from 2015 and 2014. Will the 18th edition deliver a new winner?
Ten years after his father Andreas took victory at Romaniacs, Manuel Lettenbichler won the 2019 edition of the famous event
Red Bull Romaniacs is famed for its punishing climbs in the mountains and 2021 will be no exception. The organisers are pushing the elevation with a whopping 35,000+ metres of altitude on the cards across the week of racing.
There’s a well-known saying among competitors at Red Bull Romaniacs – ‘it’s never over until it’s over’. And that’s because Offroad Day 4 is never a walk in the park. Tough as old boots, the Gusterita finishing area is always spectacular. With the finish line in sight, battle-weary riders literally jump through hoops to get there. We’ve seen near-impossible climbs, aquaplaning and mesmerising obstacle courses, and we’re sure to witness it again next week.
Round four of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship takes place at Red Bull Romaniacs in Sibiu, Romania on July 27-31.
Red Bull Romaniacs Schedule
Tuesday July 27: Time trial qualification (TTQ) Wednesday July 28: Offroad day 1 Thursday July 29: Offroad day 2 Friday July 30: Offroad day 3 Saturday July 31: Offroad day 4
FIM Hard Enduro World Championship Standings (After round 3)
1. Billy Bolt (Husqvarna) 20pts 2. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM) 17pts 3. Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna) 15pts 4. Jonny Walker (Beta) 13pts 5. Alfredo Gomez (Husqvarna) 11pts 6. Taddy Blazusiak (GASGAS) 10pts 7. Mario Roman (Sherco) 9pts 8. Wade Young (Sherco) 8pts 9. Michael Walkner (GASGAS) 7pts 10. Travis Teasdale (GASGAS) 6pts 11. Sonny Goggia (GASGAS) 5pts 12. Matthew Green (GASGAS) 4pts 13. Teodor Kabachiev (Husqvarna) 3pts 14. Dominik Olszowy (KTM) 2pts 15. Leon Hentschel (GASGAS) 1pts
2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship calendar
Round 1: Extreme XL Lagares – Portugal, May 7/8/9 Round 2: Red Bull Erzbergrodeo – Austria, June 3/4/5/6 Round 3: Abestone Hard Enduro – Italy, July 9/10/11 Round 4: Red Bull Romaniacs – Romania, July 27/28/29/30/31 Round 5: Red Bull TKO – USA, August 13/14/15 Round 6: HERO Challenge – Poland, September 11/12 Round 7: Hixpania Hard Enduro – Spain, October 1/2/3 Round 8: GetzenRodeo – Germany, October 29/30
After a stop-start beginning to 2021, the inaugural FIM Hard Enduro World Championship will get up and running again with the Abestone Hard Enduro in Italy this weekend. The series did get underway with the XL Lagares event in May but with no points awarded as COVID restrictions prevented many racers from being able to compete, then the ErzbergRodeo which was to be round two was cancelled, thus this weekend marks the real beginning for the new FIM Hard Enduro World Championship as the series heads to Italy for the Abestone Hard Enduro.
World renowned for its motorcycling passion, Italy was one of the originating countries of Hard Enduro thanks to events like Hells Gate, but in recent years has been out of the international spotlight. With Abestone Hard Enduro taking centre stage this weekend, all that is about to change.
Boasting altitude of almost 2,000 metres, with challenging mountain peaks and deep, forestry covered valleys there’s a lot on offer for all competitors. As one of the sport’s top riders, race organiser Michele Bosi has created a track that will both test the best in the world and offer a wealth of enjoyment to our amateur riders.
Three Days Of Hard Enduro
Easing us into the event, Friday is all about the short, natural Extreme Test competitors will warm up on, while also determining the starting order for Saturday – the day of Time Trial qualification. Laid out across the two peaks of Val di Luce and l’Ovovia, racing begins in earnest on Saturday with a fast but technical 10-kilometre course ridden three times throughout the day. With a rider’s best timed run counting, the top 50 competitors qualify through to Sunday’s feature race, with the remaining entry contesting Sunday’s morning race.
Things heat up for Sunday’s action when all eyes turn to the afternoon Super Final to see who will come out on top for the first time this season. Ramping up the difficulty, the forestry sections become slower and extremely technical as riders battle loose rock, steep climbs and equally steep descents as they fight to complete the 20-kilometre-long course within the available three-hour time limit. With very little room to recover between sections, it’s sure to reward those who’ve done their homework.
Who’s On Form
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Billy Bolt proved near enough untouchable on the Endurocross style circuit in Portugal. He’s since secured himself a podium result in FIM EnduroGP, showing both his speed and technical ability are on point. With eyes set on the top step of the podium in Italy, only a winning start to the series will do for Billy. However, teammate Graham Jarvis carded a surprising third in Portugal. Getting into the mountains, Graham, and Husqvarna’s third rider Alfredo Gomez, will no doubt be feeling even more at home in the undulating and technical terrain.
Billy Bolt
“I’ve had some really good bike-time coming into this event. Since I raced at the EnduroGP here in Italy, I’ve stayed around and rode in the mountains in preparation for this one. I’ve ridden at a lot of riding spots similar to what we’ll see this weekend, so I’m feeling confident for this one. It’s going to be a new race for everyone, which I think levels the playing field a little and it looks like it’s going to be a really technical and difficult event that I think will favour me. It’s three days of racing so my focus will be on not making mistakes and then by Sunday evening we’ll hopefully be near the sharp end of the field.”
Alfredo Gomez
“I feel really good ahead of this race and I’m really looking forward to it. In a way it’s like round one because of how the season started, so for myself and I think everyone, it’s going to be a really exciting event. It’s new for everyone and I think that if I can ride like I have been riding during training then I think I can be competitive. I’m looking for a good result to begin the season and I can’t wait to get started on Friday.”
Graham Jarvis
“This weekend will be a brand-new event added to the calendar, which is a great thing for the sport and the series. With it being new, no one can really know how it’s going to turn out, which adds a little excitement to it. I think it’ll be really good. I’ve been riding a lot recently, not specifically in preparation for this event, but it looks technical and certainly features a lot of terrain and sections that will suit me. Overall, it’s great to be back racing and to finally get the Hard Enduro season underway.”
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Manuel Lettenbichler enjoyed a strong ride at Extreme XL Lagares despite having limited Endurocross training prior to the race. Also honing his skill set in Classic Enduro, the German has what it takes to stop Bolt in his tracks.
Sherco Factory Racing’s Wade Young and Mario Roman are two riders who have also been busy in the lead up to Abestone Hard Enduro. Roman has claimed podium results in the USA, with Young doing similar in Europe. Both favour the going when it’s tough, so expect them to rise to the fore in the closing stages on Sunday.
Vision Track Beta’s Jonny Walker showed he’s lost none of his pace with a stunningly fast hot lap in Portugal. While opting not to race on the Sunday due to a niggling injury, at Abetone, Walker will be aiming high. Benefiting from extra time to get fully set up on his new ride, delivering Beta a home win would be a dream result.
GASGAS Factory Racing’s Taddy Blazusiak and Michael Walkner will also be pushing for a top-five result, as will Trece Racing Society’s Pol Tarres on his Yamaha. TTR Squadra Corse look to come out swinging on home soil with their three riders Travis Teasdale, Kevin Gallas and Alessandro Azzalini. All earning strong results in the Italian national series, all are looking good on their GASGAS machinery.
Taddy Blazusiak
“I’m excited that we’re going racing again. It’s been the longest off-season for me ever, I think. I had a good warm-up at the EnduroGP of Italy, and it gave me a full weekend of racing to test my shoulder. Now, I’m really looking forward to starting our thing – the Hard Enduro World Championship. I’m feeling good, everything seems to be working well. The bike is absolutely awesome! The race in Italy looks like it going to be a tough one, but I can’t wait to get started.”
Across the entire weekend, and in keeping with the spirit of Hard Enduro, no outside assistance is permitted during the race. Whoever stands on the top step of the podium will have truly mastered the Abestone Hard Enduro.
The Abestone Hard Enduro takes place in Abetone, Tuscany on July 9-11.
2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship calendar
Round 1: Extreme XL Lagares – Portugal, May 7/8/9 (No Points) Round 2: Red Bull Erzbergrodeo – Austria, June 3/4/5/6 ( Cancelled) Round 3: Abestone Hard Enduro – Italy, July 9/10/11 Round 4: Red Bull Romaniacs – Romania, July 27/28/29/30/31 Round 5: Red Bull TKO – USA, August 13/14/15 Round 6: HERO Challenge – Poland, September 11/12 Round 7: Hixpania Hard Enduro – Spain, October 1/2/3 Round 8: GetzenRodeo – Germany, October 29/30
After a stop-start beginning to 2021, the inaugural FIM Hard Enduro World Championship is soon to get up and running again with the Abestone Hard Enduro in Italy, where Series Manager Winfried Kerschhaggl will see months, if not years, of hard work come to fruition. The series did get underway with the XL Lagares event in May but with no points awarded as COVID restrictions prevented many racers from being able to compete, then the ErzbergRodeo which was to be round two was cancelled, thus this weekend marks the real beginning for the new championship.
Joining forces with the FIM to form the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship has been a long journey for Winfried, but one he feels will be hugely worthwhile. While the instant success and growth of the WESS Championship was clear, the formation of a Hard Enduro focused series was always the natural progression.
Series Manager Winfried Kerschhaggl
Uniting the world’s best races and offering athletes a FIM title to race for, the series ensures amateur riders remain an integral part of the action while ensuring the free-spirited roots of Hard Enduro stay intact. The partnership, Winfried believes, is also an opportunity to elevate the sport to a whole new level…
Winfried, 2021 is a new beginning for all as we break ground with the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship. Why the decision to come together with the FIM to form this series?
“Stepping under the FIM umbrella, where all other major motorcycling series are, will help us to raise the profile and prestige of Hard Enduro. It will bring our sport to a new level. Being a part of the FIM will add marketing value to the championship and allow it to become more clearly understood by everyone interested in motorsports, from the diehard fan to the casual spectator. But above all else, having the title of FIM Hard Enduro World Champion to race for will give our athletes the recognition and respect they truly deserve.”
Has it been a long process to get to this point?
“Yes definitely, it’s a process that was in the works for some time! Ensuring that our amateur riders remained an integral part of the championship was something that took a while to get over the line with the FIM. It forced the FIM to change their view as to what a world championship should look like. Without this we would not have done it – no way! For the FIM it has been a big step and we’re glad they made it.”
Amateur rider participation has long been an integral part of WESS, why was it important to you to ensure that it continued with the FIM?
“Amateur rider participation is what defines us. It’s what differentiates us from other disciplines and what makes us unique. We want our amateurs to race alongside our world champions and park side-by-side in the paddock. This is Enduro. They represent the very nucleus of our sport. Because Enduro is very much defined by the camaraderie of the people involved, which so often becomes obvious during racing!”
How important is it for the sport and industry to finally have a dedicated Hard Enduro World Championship?
“It’s very important and long overdue to give Hard Enduro the official recognition it deserves. Personally, as a fan, I’ve been waiting a long time for this moment. Red Bull Erzbergrodeo is already over 25 years old, Red Bull Romaniacs celebrate their 17th edition this year. The championship will bring it all together for sure. Teams and riders can commit to a season of racing. More riders are drawn in to compete and at a grassroots level, that inspires more organisers to run events. Everything has a knock-on effect, which helps the industry grow.”
2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship
We’ve already seen manufactures like Beta and Yamaha lend support to the championship alongside established names like KTM, Husqvarna, GasGas and Sherco. Do you feel there is more growth to come in this area?
“Today motorsport is also a vehicle for manufacturers to promote their brand and their products. So, if you approach it from a business standpoint then Hard Enduro provides a format that is easy to understand for everyone. The competition, the rider-against-rider aspect is easy to understand and can be easily covered by the media. With solid media coverage and an FIM title to race for, then yes I believe more manufacturers will join.”
Can riders expect to see big changes in terms of how the championship is run, or are you aiming for things to be as easy and seamless as possible?
“Throughout this process our intention has always been to ‘keep it simple’. Sailing with a big ship like the FIM does not make it less complex. Hard Enduro has a free spirit, it doesn’t sit well with too many rules, and I want to keep it that way.”
We saw already with Extreme XL Lagares and Red Bull Erzbergrodeo how difficult it can be for event organisers to plan due to the COVID pandemic. Are things beginning to return to a ‘more normal’ situation?
“We’re living in some crazy times right now and sometimes even the best laid plans are taken out of your hands. At the time of staging Extreme XL Lagares, Portugal was by far the European country least at risk. Fewer people were affected, and it was the only country in Europe with restaurants open. Then suddenly, during the event there is a local hot-spot – and all your work, effort and money is gone! You have to question it yes, but at a certain point you have to accept and focus on what you can influence and that is what’s in front of you. But we were not alone, just imagine the amateur rider who travelled 2,000 km, spent a week’s vacation and a lot of money – just to return home with a fraction of what they were expecting to experience.”
The Abestone Hard Enduro is just around the corner and some of the teaser visuals look incredible. Are you excited to finally get racing underway in earnest there?
“Racing in Tuscany is a rare opportunity and doing it in a ski resort is the icing on the cake. It’s simply unbelievable what Michele Bosi, as event organizer, has been able to put together. He is so full of ideas that we had to calm him down and not get too carried away with the event. Having already stood on these mountains, walked the trails and soaked in the epic views, we know it will be an amazing event!”
The calendar sees a strong mix of well-established races with some newcomers, is the goal to offer these younger events a platform to grow and develop?
“Definitely, because the quality of each of our events determines the quality of the World Championship. But it’s also the diversity of the events, which is in our interest too. Over time we want the calendar to be less European focused.”
For potential organisers wishing to get involved, what criteria are you looking for in an event?
“We want to see a unique venue that can host a special course that is demanding, but not dangerous. The race format needs to support the integration of amateur riders to a large extent and the minimum number of competitors should be 250 at least. But also, the event format must be attractive to spectators and media alike. Overall, an event that is simple in structure, but still capable of developing a unique position within the series.”
For now, events are closed to spectators. What will it mean to have thousands of fans back trackside watching the racing again?
“We have all together learned over the last 18 months to live with what we can get, so everyone will be excited to return to the events and see the competition and our stars in person when it’s safe to do so. I’m looking forward to seeing the paddocks a real hive of activity with fans and spectators again. We all miss that!”
Finally, when we overcome this pandemic, how would you like to see this championship develop in the next few years?
“Our objective is to become the most popular Off-Road/Enduro series worldwide – regardless of how much Covid may influence our future!”
The FIM Hard Enduro World Championship heads to Tuscany, Italy for the Abestone Hard Enduro on July 9-11.
2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship calendar
Round 1: Extreme XL Lagares – Portugal, May 7/8/9 (No Points) Round 2: Red Bull Erzbergrodeo – Austria, June 3/4/5/6 ( Cancelled) Round 3: Abestone Hard Enduro – Italy, July 9/10/11 Round 4: Red Bull Romaniacs – Romania, July 27/28/29/30/31 Round 5: Red Bull TKO – USA, August 13/14/15 Round 6: HERO Challenge – Poland, September 11/12 Round 7: Hixpania Hard Enduro – Spain, October 1/2/3 Round 8: GetzenRodeo – Germany, October 29/30
Following the challenging circumstances that unfortunately plagued the opening round of the 2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship at Extreme XL Lagares and then led to the subsequent cancellation of this year’s Red Bull Erzbergrodeo, the series is ready to bounce back strongly after this unprecedented double-disappointment.
With this chapter now closed, the FIM and WESS GmbH are now looking forward to the re-start of this year’s series, and to having the opportunity to deliver a diverse and exciting mix of events over the remainder of the season.
The next six events will ensure that the inaugural series is remembered for all the right reasons, whilst also being worthy of crowning the first ever FIM Hard Enduro World Champion. Next up, and re-starting the series, is the new Abestone Hard Enduro in Italy, which will welcome competitors to one of the most picturesque parts of the world.
Winfried Kerschhaggl FIM Hard Enduro World Championship Series Manager
“Overcoming challenges is what enduro sport is all about. As much as everyone was looking forward to Extreme XL Lagares, an event that in any normal year would have given us an incredible start to the series, the situation is what it is. Disappointing and frustrating for all those involved, we have to move on and focus on the many positives that lie ahead for the series. Of course, the cancellation of Red Bull Erzbergrodeo is also a huge loss, but this too cannot be changed, and again we must look forward. The FIM Hard Enduro World Championship has six outstanding events remaining, and while we might have to wait a little while before we go racing again, in mixing well-established favourites with exciting new races, the series will unquestionably meet the expectations of the riders, media and Hard Enduro fans. We want to thank the riders for their understanding and are offering all organisers our full support.”
The Italian event will be followed by the established line up of: Red Bull Romaniacs – Romania, Red Bull TKO – USA, Hero Challenge – Poland (successor to Megawatt), Hixpania – Spain and finally GetzenRodeo – Germany.
John Collins FIM Enduro Commission Director
“There was so much excitement and anticipation regarding this brand new FIM World Championship, so it was deeply disappointing due to circumstances beyond control of all involved that the start of the series has not gone to plan and has not allowed championship points to be awarded from the opening event. That said, collectively we are all ready to work hard and to move on and to ensure that the next six events that will now define the first edition of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship will be a great success and will put this series firmly on the map. On behalf of the FIM I would like to thank our promoter and all the key stakeholders, including the riders, manufacturers, teams and sponsors for their kind understanding and continued support.”
2021 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship calendar
Round 1: Extreme XL Lagares – Portugal, May 7/8/9 No Points Awarded
Round 2: Red Bull Erzbergrodeo – Austria, June 3/4/5/6 Cancelled
Round 3: Abestone Hard Enduro – Italy, July 10/11
Round 4: Red Bull Romaniacs – Romania, July 27/28/29/30/31
Round 5: Red Bull TKO – USA, August 13/14/15
Round 6: HERO Challenge – Poland, September 11/12
Round 7: Hixpania Hard Enduro – Spain, October 1/2/3
Manuel Lettenbichler prepared for 2021 Hard Enduro
Manuel Lettenbichler is hot property when it comes to Hard Enduro. The 2019 WESS Champion and two-time Red Bull Romaniacs winner has not only asserted himself as the rider to beat in recent seasons, at just 22 years of age he’s also risen to the top in a sport where experience is key.
Now, with all signs indicating that racing is firmly back on track, the German has got his sights set on rising to the top once again, this time in the inaugural season of FIM Hard Enduro World Championship competition.
Manuel Lettenbichler – Image by Future7Media
Eager to get back to business, and his winning ways, the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing star is prepared, hungry for success, and ready to take each race as they come in 2021…
Manuel Lettenbichler “It’s cool to have the FIM involved in Hard Enduro, for the sport and all involved to receive more recognition. I guess it shows how far our sport has come since when my father started competing. It also brings new motivation for everyone, as well as some new riders and teams, which is always good. New interest in our sport is super important. I feel like it’s a natural progression, so it will be cool to see how the championship grows. I’m excited to get it started.
“For sure it’s been the strangest of years, so as a rider it’s nice to have Extreme XL Lagares as a milestone for returning to racing properly. Although I won the WESS title in 2019, I never got to defend it. But the Hard Enduro World Championship is different, so I don’t feel like there is a target on my back. I just want to race my bike and try to win, try to be on the podium. After the year we’ve had, I’m mostly excited about getting back to racing.
Manuel Lettenbichler’s Red Bull KTM – Image by Future7Media
“If it’s not fun, then it’s not for me. I’ve always tried to live that way and in particular apply that to my racing. I certainly have done that as I’ve been preparing for this season. Every time I put my helmet on the goal is to enjoy myself. I feel like when I do that the results take care of themselves. You can be more in the moment and not worry about pressure so much. I’m so lucky to get to race dirt bikes as a job, so by keeping it fun the work becomes easier!”
Manuel Lettenbichler further sharing, “Red Bull Erzbergrodeo is top of my ‘must win’ list. It’s the most famous race in the world for our sport and I dream of standing on top of the podium there. A lot needs to go right there because it’s so crazy. You need a good start to fight for the win. It’s like a sprint from the drop of the start flag. In Carl’s Dinner you want to stop – it’s mental and physical torture – but once you get out of that section there is pure relief because it’s over and you’re nearly home.
Manuel Lettenbichler – Image by Future7Media
“GetzenRodeo as the final round of the championship is like a carrot on a stick for me. It’s become such a special place for me – winning the race and the WESS Championship there in 2019 – so I’m stoked to have it on the calendar this year. Of course, we’ve a lot of racing to get through before then and I’ll be doing my best to be in a position where I can fight for the title on home soil in front of (fingers crossed) a home crowd.”
Manuel Lettenbichler Gallery
Images by Future7Media
Joining Lettenbichler in 2021 with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team is Spaniard Josep Garcia who has been waiting patiently for the EnduroGP series to start in Portugal, in mid-June. Armed with the potent KTM 350 EXC-F, Garcia is focused on returning to the series with a bang as he looks to add to the Enduro2 title he won back in 2017.
Josep Garcia Gallery
Images by Future7Media
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Mario Roman talks returning to the Extreme XL Lagares with Sherco
The last time Sherco Factory Racing’s Mario Roman raced at Extreme XL Lagares, he won. At the time, the experienced Spaniard’s victory came as a bit of a surprise to many, but in reality, it shouldn’t have.
With one of the most developed skill sets of all top Hard Enduro racers, Mario’s mix of Motocross, Enduro and Trial techniques is impressive. Above all, his ability to adapt and master the notoriously slippery, rocky Portuguese riverbeds that Lagares is famous for is arguably his biggest asset. His victory back in 2019 was ultimately a masterclass in technique, patience and above all confidence.
Mario Roman claimed the WESS Round 1 win at the Extreme XL Lagares back in 2019
Among the first to sign up for the newly formed FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, Mario is refreshed, focused and ready to rock at Extreme XL Lagares again…
Mario, you’ve been waiting a long time for a FIM Hard Enduro World Championship. What are your initial thoughts on the championship and races ahead this year?
Mario Roman: “It’s great news to have a world championship this year. I’ve been racing Hard Enduro since 2014 and have missed having a series like we do in classic enduro. Bringing it in line with the FIM puts us on the same level as MotoGP and MXGP with a world title to race for. I won the 125 Enduro world title in 2010, so if I could do it in Hard Enduro after so many years, that would be incredible!”
You travel the world with your training schools. At a grassroots level, how do you see the sport of Hard Enduro growing and will a world championship help it grow further?
Mario Roman: “I love the training and coaching schools I do. It helps me to travel to so many places around the world, like South America, Israel, and when travel restrictions ease, Australia. Getting to spend 1-on-1 time with amateur riders and pass on my experience is cool. In the beginning we mostly did Classic Enduro techniques, but now it’s changed. They want to know how to climb, ride boulders, to push and how to ride the Hard Enduro way. So, I see the sport developing a lot. Hopefully with a world championship behind it now it will bring opportunities and investment to young riders in these countries so they can come race with us too.”
Mario Roman – Spanish Hard Enduro 2021
You never got to defend your 2019 Extreme XL Lagares win last year. You must be looking forward to getting back on the start line for 2021?
Mario Roman: “Yes! Extreme XL Lagares is a special race for me. It’s only five hours from my home in Madrid and in the past many close family and friends came to support me. I’d been trying for a few years to win and finally it happened in 2019. Unfortunately, we didn’t race last year, but as the first round of the world championship it’s extra motivation to fight for the win again. Although we’ve had a long offseason, I feel like I’ve done my homework. I’m in tune with my Sherco and feel like my riding is in a good place. I’ll stay focused, make own race and hope that’s enough to deliver a big result.”
The region of Lagares has become like a second home to you. But what makes the terrain and technical river beds there so difficult to master?
Mario Roman: “What makes it so difficult is the rocks – they are always super slippery. If it’s dry it is much easier to ride – but it’s never dry at Lagares! If it rains during the night and then stops before the race then we’re in trouble because they become so greasy. The best situation is when it continues to rain, this way the rocks are washed clean all the time.”
2020 Red Bull Romaniacs – Mario Roman
For amateur riders, what top tips can you share to help them survive the main event on Sunday?
Mario Roman: “The three keys are fitness, bike setup and tyres. You need a good level of fitness to survive riding these mountains for five hours. But bike setup can help a lot. I set my Sherco low in the rear so I can put both feet down in the riverbeds at any time. This helps in deep water and prevents crashing. If you crash there and need to change a spark plug, you will lose a lot of time. Tyres and a good mousse are crucial too. I use a super soft compound to find that extra traction when I need it most.”
Along with Extreme XL Lagares, what races are you looking forward to most in the Hard Enduro World Championship, and why?
Mario Roman: “Honestly, the calendar looks great. Red Bull Erzbergrodeo, Hixpania Hard Enduro and Red Bull Romaniacs are my other favourites, but I’m keen to see what the race in Italy is like also. I think it’s the variety of racing I love. The Red Bull TKO final is 30 minutes, but Red Bull Romaniacs is like 40 hours in one week. And when I can spend time like that on my bike, I’m happy!”
Mario Roman
The opening round of the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship takes place at Extreme XL Lagares in Portugal on May 7-9.
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Pablo Quintanilla and Husqvarna part ways
Husqvarna Motorcycles have thanked and wished Pablo Quintanilla well in his future career, as well as for his commitment, enthusiasm and successes in his five seasons with the team, racing both the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship and the Dakar Rally.
Signing with Husqvarna Motorcycles prior to the 2016 Dakar Rally, Quintanilla immediately made his mark by claiming a stage win on his way to third overall. Later that year, the Chilean rider went on to top the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, clinching podium results in all four rounds.
Pablo Quintanilla at the Dakar 2021
Forced to retire from the 2017 Dakar, Pablo made up for his disappointment by successfully defending his world title, including a win at the challenging Atacama Rally on home soil – a race he has won no fewer than four times.
Runner-up in the world championship in 2018, Quintanilla went on to narrowly miss the podium at the 2019 Dakar by just seven minutes following over 42 hours of racing through the deserts of South America. With the remainder of his 2019 season plagued with injury, the 34-year-old came back fighting at the 2020 Dakar, claiming a runner-up finish – both his and Husqvarna Motorcycles’ best result at the tough event.
Pela Renet – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Rally Team Manager
“It’s never easy to part company with a rider that has been such an important part of our team for so many years, but in motorsport this happens. Pablo is a great rider and has contributed so much to Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing. Before working with Pablo as Team Manager we were teammates, so to have raced alongside him and then worked and supported him, it’s been very special. Personally, and on behalf of the team and everyone involved, I want to thank Pablo for his hard work and commitment and wish him all the best for the future.”
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AORC Nowra rescheduled for August
The Yamaha Australian Off-Road Championship, presented by MXstore (AORC), will return to Nowra, NSW in 2021 for Rounds 7 and 8 of the Championship on August 28 and 29.
AORC 2021
The rounds scheduled for Nowra earlier this year were postponed due to severe weather which impacted the area causing extensive flooding of the track and pit area making it impossible for riders and teams to travel and participate in the event.
The Oyster Bay Motorcycle Club had done significant work in preparing for the original rounds and we know they will leave no stone unturned to ensure a sensational track is provided come August 28 and 29 for what will now be AORC Rounds 7 and 8.
The Championship has also received significant support from Shoalhaven City Council which ensures the event can provide a spectacular race weekend for both riders and fans of AORC.
