The International of Pernes-les-Fontaines makes its grand return on February 8, twenty years after its last edition.
Two decades after hosting its last international event, Pernes-les-Fontaines is making a highly anticipated comeback on the French calendar. The event returns on February 8, ideally scheduled between the Inter of Valence (February 1) and that of Sommières (February 22), making it a prime stop for riders in full preparation mode. This joint effort aims to revitalise the southeastern quarter of France and to re-establish the French International races as a must-attend part of the pre-season.
“The goal is to offer a great show for the club’s 100th anniversary,” explains Moto Club of Pernes-les-Fontaines president Yann Piguet, in the midst of preparation, “but also to give riders the opportunity to get on track and allow teams to do some testing before the season begins. We’re offering them the chance to ride our International race, and also to stay around for the other events by opening our tracks to help them fine-tune their preparation and final adjustments. We coordinated with Valence and Sommières regarding the dates because we felt it could be a win-win situation and a great opportunity for our Moto Clubs and our regions. Since there are three International races in the area in February, riders can organise a solid training block, and spectators can enjoy some great racing. We really want to do things properly, and we hope fans will respond positively because it’s a long-term effort.”
A strategic event to kick off the season
The calendar offers teams and riders the perfect opportunity to fine-tune their settings, validate their winter preparation, and multiply race starts before the world, European or national championships begin. The club’s ambition is to re-establish Pernes-les-Fontaines as a key winter event, in keeping with its prestigious history.
In 2006, the year of the last International held in Pernes-les-Fontaines, Christophe Pourcel took victory over Tyla Rattray and Antoine Méo in the MX2 class. In the MX1 class, Stefan Everts claimed a dominant double win ahead of Joshua Coppins and Yves Demaria.
“When I took over the club’s presidency four years ago, my goal was to revive this International race. I started with the Minivert, then we organised the Mediterranean Trophy, and finally the Elite Motocross rounds,” explains Yann Piguet, who can rely on the investment and dedication of the Moto Club members to make this comeback a success. “This year, the Elite round went really well for us. We received great feedback, and spectators showed up in numbers. The logical next step was to roll up our sleeves and bring back the International format for the club’s 100th anniversary. Our objective is truly to reinstate the International of Pernes-les-Fontaines on the French calendar for the long run.”
A track rich in history
The Pernes circuit is well known to enthusiasts, having hosted more than ten GPs between 1960 and 1997, as well as rounds of the Sidecar World Championship. More recently, the Moto Club Pernois shifted its focus to national events, including hosting a round of the French Elite Championship in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2025—this year setting the spectator attendance record for the 24MX Tour – the French National Motocross main series.
Building on this expertise, the Moto Club of Pernes aims to reconnect with the international scene and secure the event for the future. The target is clear: reach 3,000 spectators, the minimum requirement to ensure renewal and long-term growth.
“Organising this event always carries a risk due to the level of investment involved, whether it’s for us, Valence or Sommières,” says Yann Piguet. “The biggest challenge is to ensure this type of event becomes sustainable. This is why we’re counting on the public’s support for the return of our international race after 20 years of absence; it would be the greatest reward for the staff who are doing everything they can to deliver a great sporting event, and also for Motors Academy, which manages the circuit and the club’s events.”
A growing entry list
The first wave of entries already sets the tone. The Kawasaki KRT team is expected in Pernes-les-Fontaines on February 8 with reigning MXGP World Champion Romain Febvre, along with Pauls Jonass and Mathis Valin. The presence of Maxime Renaux (Monster Energy Factory Yamaha), Thibault Benistant and Kevin Horgmo (Honda SR Motoblouz) is also becoming more concrete. In addition, Cédric Soubeyras, Arnaud Tonus, Maxime Desprey and Max Nagl are among the latest high-profile names to join the list. Notably, the German rider had already lined up in Pernes-les-Fontaines in 2006 in the MX2 class—he was just 18 years old at the time!
“We’ve already had several riders confirm, others have shown interest, and we’re still awaiting responses from a number of teams,” concludes the MC Pernois president. “Making it possible for French fans to see Grand Prix riders race under competition conditions before the World Championship season starts—that’s our goal. We’re aiming high, but we’re giving ourselves the means to match our ambitions, and the entire team is truly motivated. The momentum is very strong. Of course, there is some pressure, but it’s the good kind of pressure!”
The Inter MX2/MX1 class will be contested over three motos of 20 minutes plus two laps. Young riders will also have their moment with the 125cc and 85cc categories, each racing two motos. Spectators will additionally enjoy a Freestyle show featuring Brice Izzo and Danny Torres.
Facilities: food and drink stands, children’s play area, vendor booths, raffle, entertainment.
Entry fees:
– General admission: €25
– Reduced rate (ages 6–12): €10
– Free for children under 6
Tickets available on site.
