Finishing off the 2024 calendar is the Motocross of Nations, where Team HRC’s Tim Gajser and Ruben Fernandez will be looking to help Slovenia and Spain respectively, when they take to the Matterley Basin circuit in Great Britain this weekend.
Both riders had slightly disappointing races at the final world motocross championship round in Castilla La Manche, Spain last time out, where although Gajser was second overall, he missed out on the GP overall by one point and the MXGP title by just 10 points. It was a tough one to soak in, but the MXON gives him a chance at forgetting all that and going out and fighting for Slovenian-pride in this unique event. Last year, the tiny nation had their best ever finish in ninth, just behind Team USA, and they are looking to go even better this time around with Gajser the main hope for their chances.
Team Spain are also hoping to improve upon their best ever finish, by getting on the podium for the first ever time. Fernandez will play a major part in any success, as he competes in the Open class, meaning he’ll be racing in the second and third motos. The Honda CRF450R rider has been working himself back into form since returning from injury and although he didn’t have the best results in Spain, he still rode well and has had a lot of positive moments on the track that should give him confidence heading to England.
Matterley Basin is Gajser’s favourite track, along with many other riders and although there have been some changes made, it is still an excellent venue and one worthy of hosting such a prestigious event. Rain is forecast at varying stages over the weekend but the track crew are prepared and it should still be an amazing occasion for fans and riders alike.
Tim Gajser 243
It’s good that we have the Motocross of Nations this weekend, so I can concentrate on putting on a good show in this one-off event. I really like racing at Matterley Basin, and I’m excited to do so again for Slovenia which has a good team. Last year we came ninth and I think this year’s team is even better so the goal is to try and finish higher. Whatever happens though, I have enjoyed this 2024 campaign and want to end on a positive note.
Ruben Fernandez 70
Cozar wasn’t my best performance but I still learned some things and was really glad to have experienced a home GP this year. Now, riding for Spain at this event and we have a really good chance of getting our nation’s first ever podium. That’s the target heading into the race and I think if I can ride to my potential and the other two guys do the same, we’ll definitely be up there and challenging for the top three spots.
Marcus Pereira de Freitas
HRC General Manager – MXGP
Not an easy week for the team, to get everything ready to go with a long bit of travelling from Spain to England. Still, the team have been coping with these logistics all year and do a great job so it won’t be a problem for this last race of the year. We’ll also be joined by our American colleagues who’ll be supporting the Lawrence’s and some Japanese crew for two of their riders so it’ll be a real international feeling and something that is always a fun time for everyone. Both Tim and Ruben will be riding with a point to prove and our aim is to help them do the best that they can and really end this 2024 season on a high.
@shotbybavo
