MX2

The Grand Prix of Patagonia-Argentina will open the 2019 FIM Motocross World Championship, and for many people that round can’t come around quickly enough. The beauty of the circuit and the area makes this a perfect start to the MXGP and MX2 series.

Lucas De La Fuente is part of the team that makes sure the Grand Prix of Patagonia - Argentina goes to plan. Having been involved from the very first

“Patagonia is all about nature,” De La Fuente said. “The first locations we looked at for this event were closer to town, but we put a lot of effort to find the right location. As you could see, it turned out well, but when we first found that location, it wasn’t like it is now, we put a lot of work into getting it to look like that. We wanted it close enough to the town, but not close enough to bother the town itself, and we wanted that feeling of the natures and to show the nice things of this location. From where we are here in Patagonia, it’s 2500 kilometres to the north, and almost the same to the south. It is incredible, because you have people coming from everywhere, driving more than 2.000 km, and you have people flying in from Buenos Aires. We have a lot of small motocross and enduro tracks in Argentina. For our country, this is the event to attend. People plan months ahead to make the trip and you see the spectators also hang around to enjoy the area. That is why it is the correct thing to do to run the event in this tourist area. People don’t just come for the weekend, they make a week of it.”

British rider Ben Watson has had his share of up and down experiences in Argentina, but going into 2019, he is keener than ever to add a podium finish or even a GP win to name.

Yes,” Watson said. “When I found out the first round will be in Argentina again, I have that feeling that I can go how I felt at the start in Argentina this year. I went back to a track I hadn’t done well at. I went there with a factory bike, and a lot of people looking at me and seeing what I can do with the extra support. I qualified third and had two fourths in the race and one of the best weekends of the year. Now I can go there with a completely different mind-set. Previously I had gone there, broken my foot and never really had great memories from that place. I am looking forward to that first round a lot now.”

Journalist David Bulmer also has good feelings about his return to Argentina, one of the highlights of his travel experiences for the MXGP championships.

“I think that first time I went to the Argentina race in Patagonia was one of the highlights,” Bulmer said. “I flew to Chile and I travelled down along the Andes and that is an amazing area. People have seen the photos of the track and the social media of the riders, and that stands out. It is just interesting place and for me, seeing the area where the track is, and the culture, that is why I enjoy the sport so much.”

So now, just a couple of months and the MXGP and MX2 riders will arrive in Argentina, and once again enjoy the amazing nature and that beautiful circuit hidden in the Patagonian forrest.

MONACO (Principality of Monaco) 12 December 2018 - Youthstream announces an update to the recently scheduled opening round of the season 2019, the MXGP of Patagonia Argentina, which will now take place on March the 2^nd and 3^rd.

The previous schedule was selected before a local government election was announced causing the change. This is due to a local law which prohibits public events from coinciding with such elections. The new anticipated date will however better suit the interest of both riders and fans as the best athletes in the world return to MXGP racing following winter preparation. While the earlier start in Neuquen likely means warmer weather, as fall begins in Argentina, one constant remains with the event being unforgettable and full of not to miss racing!

LINKS

Youthstream

FIM

MXGP of Patagonia Argentina

During the FIM MXGP/MX2/Women's Motocross World Championship round at Assen (The Netherlands) on 16.09.2018, fuel samples were taken to be tested in accordance with the 2018-1 FIM Technical Rules Motocross (Art.63.04 and 63.05) from the following motorcycles:

• No. 10 Calvin Vlaanderen 

• No. 20 Filip Bengtsson 

• No. 32 Milko Potisek 

• No. 33 Julien Lieber 

• No. 70 Ruben Fernandez 

• No. 91 Jeremy Seewer 

• No. 161 Alvin Östlund 

• No. 426 Conrad Mewse 

• No. 14 Mathilde Martinez 

• No. 100 Eline Burgmans 

• No. 131 Line Nordensgaard Dam Nielsen 

• No. 612 Mathea Selebo 


Among these riders, the fuel tests of No. 20 Filip Bengtsson, No. 32 Milko Potisek and No. 70 Ruben Fernandez attested non conformity with the FIM fuel specifications provided for in Art. 63.01.2 of the 2018-1 FIM Technical Rules Motocross, regarding the properties for unleaded fuel. 


On this basis, the FIM Race Direction of the above-mentioned FIM MXGP/MX2 Motocross World Championship round has decided to impose upon Mr Bengtsson, Mr Potisek and Mr Fernandez a disqualification from the entire event (i.e. round IMN 202/19 held in Assen), in accordance with Art. 63.05.11 of the 2018-1 Technical Rules Motocross. 


No appeal against the decision of the FIM Race Direction has been lodged before the International Disciplinary Court (CDI) within the set deadline. As a consequence, the decision of the International Jury is final.


The final results of the 2018 FIM MXGP/MX2/Women's Motocross World Championship have been updated accordingly. 


MONACO (Principality of Monaco), 6 December 2018 - Youthstream is proud to announce that the sixty-fourth issue of MXGP Mag is now online. The newest issue of MXGP Mag introduces the newly elected FIM President Jorge Viegas, talks about the 2019 MXGP Organizers Meeting and FIM Awards Gala in Andorra, then lists the best MXGP related Christmas gifts. The new issue also takes a close look at the 1991 Honda 250 of Trampas Parker and features Motocross Hall of Famer Mickaël Pichon.

Click here to read the sixty-fourth issue of MXGP Mag or download it for FREE on Apple Store or Google Play.

Those users who have already downloaded other issues on their iOS device can automatically download the new issue by opening the News Stand and clicking on the cover of the MXGP Mag. Whereas those readers using an Android device will be able to download the magazine for free thanks to this app: http://bit.ly/IssuuOnAndroid

LINKS

Youthstream

FIM

MXGP MAG

MONACO (Principality of Monaco) 5 December 2018 – Youthstream is excited to announce that the first round of the 2019 MXGP and MX2 FIM Motocross World Championship season will take place at the amazing Patagonia-Argentina circuit of Neuquen. The first round will take place as previously announced on Sunday the 10^th of March with bikes racing for the first time of the new season in Qualifying on Saturday.

MXGP’s return to Patagonia Argentina’s beautiful Neuquen circuit is exciting for the riders, fans, and industry members as amazing GPs have taken place at the venue since first hosting the FIM Motocross World Championship in 2015. Serving as the second round of 2017 and then the opening round of 2018 the previous years have resulted in stunning racing amongst the hillsides lined by thousands of South American motocross fans.

Year after year the soil and design of the circuit along with the unique atmosphere have made Patagonia a favorite of many. 2018’s MXGP of Patagonia- Argentina set the tone for the entire season where Red Bull KTM Factory Racing's Antonio Cairoli and Jeffrey Herlings fought a brilliant battle to an intense finish. 2019 will once again host the superstars of motocross world championship in a new battle for not only the first win but also the first championship leader red plates!

Will Herlings maintain his dominance, will Cairoli rise to the challenge, or will another MXGP hero such as Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Romain Febvre, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Clement Desalle or Team HRC’s Tim Gajser regain winning form? The next championship story is yet to be written but it will all start in Patagonia Argentina this March!

David Luongo, Vice President of Youthstream: "It is great news to be back in Argentina for the opening Grand Prix of the season. The circuit of Neuquen is for most of the riders, the most beautiful track of the championship and its location in the middle of Patagonia is breathtaking. We really want to thank David Eli from Mas Eventos along with the local and national authorities making this Grand Prix possible, we are sure that it will be a great success and will bring a lot of attention and exposure Argentina.”

Tony Skillington, FIM/CMS Director: “After the announcement of the hosting of the 2019 edition of the MXGP of Patagonia - Argentina, it is with a great pleasure that this news will be received by all involved as this venue has been a favorite to many riders and teams to be able to compete on this fantastic track in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.”

Cr.Omar Gutierrez, Governor of the Province of Neuquén: "The FIM Motocross World Championship is an international event that is already part of the identity and DNA from the people of Neuquén. Sporting important events like this one have an enormous touristic, social and economic importance, guaranteeing a strong global insertion to the province of Neuquén".

David Eli, Organizer of the MXGP of Patagonia - Argentina: "We are pleased to confirm that in 2019 we will celebrate the fifth edition of the MXGP in Villa La Angostura, Neuquén province. In addition to celebration for having obtained for the fourth consecutive year the title as the best circuit in the calendar, where the local fans and the majestic landscapes of the region give it a unique imprint; we will have the honor to open again the season of the motocross world championship. Returning as host to this international event, is the merit of enormous effort and teamwork that we have been doing from our company (+Eventos) together with the Government of Neuquén and the city of Villa La Angostura."

LINKS

Youthstream

FIM

MONACO (Principality of Monaco), 04 December 2018 - MXGP’s Annual Organizers meeting has taken place this weekend in Andorra at the Arthotel of Andorra la Vella. The special annual event serves as meeting for all the Organizers of the upcoming FIM Motocross World Championship events and gives a chance for the newest Organizers to learn from the successful strategies of their long time and experienced counterparts in a very positive atmosphere.

Youthstream’s Director of Communications and Marketing Services, Marionna Leiva, opened the event by introducing those present, which included Youthstream President Mr. Giuseppe Luongo, Youthstream Vice President David Luongo, Youthstream Directors Mr. Nikos Gounaris, Mr. Daniele Rizzi and Mr Didier Henriod, FIM representatives such as FIM/CMS Director Mr. Tony Skillington, FIM Race Director Mr. Ingo Partsch, and FIM Medical Director David McManus, in addition to various organizers of the 2019 MXGP rounds, among all a delegation from Shanghai representing the MXGP of China attending the event with a great willing and motivation to host MXGP in 2019.

The meeting included a presentation detailing Youthstream’s departments to the Organizers with some important points to follow and tips to help them host successful events in 2019. Following the introduction and important notes, the new and returning venues were presented starting with the MXGP stop of China in Shanghai, Indonesia in Palembang, Sweden in Uddevalla, Hong Kong, and finally the 2019 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations at the famous Assen TT Circuit of the Netherlands.

Youthstream President Mr. Giuseppe Luongo joined on stage where he welcomed everyone and spoke highly of how the 2018 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations showcased the ability of MXGP riders who developed their talents through the demanding World Championship races and tracks. Mr. Luongo also spoke of the importance of the Youth program in order to grow the professionalism of riders and the continued cooperation between Youthstream, the FIM, and the local Organizers.

Mr. Giuseppe Luongo: “We are all here because we love the sport. We create a future, there are a lot of young kids in the European Championship and MX2 who are very fast and they push the level of MXGP to be as strong as it is now.”

Mr. Luongo also expressed his joy of being able to host the Organizers in a meeting during the off season as part of the MXGP family and continued by mentioning the need to improve the championship through focusing on the details. Additionally highlighted was the growth of the spectator numbers and the massive improvement of longtime facilities along with the quick success of new venues.

FIM/CMS Director Tony Skillington: “2018 was a fantastic and exciting season, I was happy to be a part of it. What we can see all around is the growth, the professionalism, the dedication to do hard work. I, in my youth, was an organizer and I am very appreciative of the hard work, time, and effort that people go through to put on the quality events that they do.”

Afterwards Organizers from both the MXGP of Russia and the MXGP of China each took the microphone to say a few words with the representatives from Shanghai expressing the honor they felt to be a part of this event in Andorra. Pleased with the ability to both learn and share valuable information they continued to say how excited they are to present Shanghai to the world. 

The entire event was also held on the eve of the Annual FIM Awards ceremony held at the Sports Arena in Androa La Vella where the 2018 FIM Champions from various two-wheeled disciplines where gathered to be rewarded during a stunning Gala dinner.

In front of all special guests, media and Federations’ representatives MXGP World Champion Jeffrey Herlings, MX2 World Champion Jorge Prado, WMX World Champion Kiara Fontanesi, Junior Motocross World Champions Bailey Malkiewicz and Caden Braswell, plus Snowcross World Champion Adam Renheim went on stage to receive their FIM Medal.

With the meeting concluded and the organizers informed and well prepared, the 2019 season is now one step closer to the highly anticipated first gate drop this March!

LINKS

Youthstream

FIM

Roger Magee of Hitachi KTM UK has often done wonders for his riders. On many occasions Magee has picked up a rider when it seems his chances of good results are not that there, and he has transformed them into winners. Having brought riders like Shaun Simpson, Ben Watson, Kevin Strijbos and many more to the GP scene, under his KTM UK banner, Magee knows that his MX2 rider, Conrad Mewse has all the potential to be a contender, and as early as 2019.

“He still has some work to do on the mental side,” Magee said. “But I do see progress. This year if we were at a track that had been watered a lot, he struggled early and the pack is then gone, and by the end of the race he is often one of the quickest on the track. He is very similar to a lot of riders we pick up, riders who are maybe struggling with other teams, where things were not going well. Similar to Strijbos in 2012 when he wasn’t looking that great and it seemed his career was nearly over, then he did well with us, won the British championship and I think finished sixth in the World, and eventually got back on the factory Suzuki team. Same with Simpson, he had some good years, then back in the doldrums, came back to us, won two British championship and a couple of GP rounds. Conrad has had a year to settle down in the team and 2019 we expect him to do well.”

Mewse who in his junior days beat guys like 2018 MX2 World Champion Jorge Prado, and 2017 Monster Energy FIM MXoN MX2 overall winner Hunter Lawrence, is more than capable of running with the likes of Prado in his professional career. Progression has somewhat been slow for the young British rider, but he too expects 2019 to be his come-out season, a where he once again wants to be a contender.

“I am not setting my sights too high,” Mewse said. “I haven’t even finished in the top ten yet, and missed six rounds this year. I am looking at going out there and getting inside the top ten, inside the top six, on a regular basis. Put in some consistent rider and finish inside the top five in the championship. I am doing a lot of training at the moment, flat out in the gym, doing a lot of cardio. We are getting back on the bike, just once a week and having a bit of fun and not pushing too hard. January we will do some solid riding and training overseas, getting the bike set-up, and be fully prepared for that first round of the GPs.”

So now with a few months to prepare and with good health on his side, don’t be surprised to see the rider with 426 on his bike race closer to the front, and possibly even make some podium appearances. A strong off-season and some work on his confidence could see Mewse once again producing the results we all expected when he arrived on the GP scene a few years ago.

Copyright: Photo: Nuno Laranjeira

The month of December is upon us quickly, meaning it is time for the holidays, and all the annual traditions!

Every December MXGP has an Advent Calendar with some of the best MXGP content showcased on our social media during the lead up to Christmas.

This year the tradition continues with our 2018 Advent calendar featuring the best Issues of MXGP Mag since its first publication in September 2013! Each one of the 24 days leading up to Christmas will host an exciting MXGP Mag edition full of amazing article, photo, bikes, and more. The MXGP Advent Calendar starts this weekend so be sure to follow us on social media for daily content starting from tomorrow December 1st!

Yamaha Motor Europe is dropping the gate on their 2019 YZ125, YZ85 and YZ65 bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup registrations! Since 2015, the YZ125 bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup has been the best opportunity for young MX riders to find their feet in the world of professional racing. Yamaha Motor Europe are widening the field in 2019 by adding the 85cc and 65cc classes to the mix!

If you're riding a YZ125, YZ85 or YZ65 in your national championship, you're eligible to join the bLU cRU. Forty riders from each class will be invited to finish the season by riding in the 2019 bLU cRU FIM Europe Cup SuperFinale at the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations in Assen, the Netherlands. The top three riders from each class competing at the SuperFinale will be joined by two wild card riders from each class at the m at the end of the season.

The bLU cRU Masterclass is an event specifically designed to give young riders a taste of what the racing world can throw at them as well as being a place to receive expert tuition from Yamaha Racing superstars: bLU cRU ambassadors. They'll compete, learn, grow and develop over three days of intense training and competition. At the end of the three days, one YZ125 rider will be chosen to compete in the 2020 season for a Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. supported team, and the 65 and 85 riders will carry concrete technical support for the next season.

Please follow the instructions at the following links, YZ125, YZ85, YZ65 and sign up as soon as possible. Make sure you meet the requirements and... jump into the bLU cRU experience!

Following those announcements regarding Kevin Strijbos and Vsevolod Brylyakov, JWR Yamaha Racing is pleased to confirm that an agreement has been reached with Anton Gole. Gole will compete in the premier MXGP class in the 2019 FIM Motocross World Championship.

Anton Gole will make his premier-class debut next season and is excited for the challenge that lies ahead. Back-to-back injuries have thwarted his efforts in the MX2 class over the last twelve months, but he is now back to one hundred percent and preparing for a taxing campaign that will include the full Swedish Championship. Gole will also compete in the MX1 class in his homeland the JWR Yamaha Racing outfit.

Anton Gole: "I am so happy to finally announce my deal with JWR Yamaha Racing. I have known Johan for a couple of years now and I think he is a very driven guy with big dreams and high goals, so I am really excited to join his team. I’m also going to step up to the MXGP class for next year, so to have Vsevolod Brylyakov and Kevin Strijbos as teammates will be awesome. I hope to learn a lot from them. It is going to be a tough challenge to ride in the big-boy class, but I feel really good on the YZ450F and I am really looking forward to it."

Johan Westermark (Team Manager): "It is important to stay true to our roots, being a Swedish team, hence why I am extremely excited to help Anton Gole move forward with his career and embark on a journey into the MXGP class. Gole has been extremely impressive over the last couple of years, especially when healthy, and I really think he will make a fantastic addition to JWR Yamaha Racing."