This weekend, May 23–24, 2026, the FIM Motocross World Championship heads to Lacapelle-Marival for the MXGP of France, marking the event’s return to the French venue after five years. The Circuit Georges Filhol will once again host the only Czech team on the starting grid — Osička MX Team.
The Czech colors will be represented by the duo of Julius Mikula and Václav Janout. Both riders will compete in the MX2 class, as Janout’s regular EMX250 category is not part of the French weekend program. For the young Czech rider, this will mark his second appearance in the MX2 World Championship class after making his debut last year in Loket.
Much of the attention during the French weekend will be focused on Julius Mikula. The Czech rider has been delivering strong performances throughout the season and made a major impression especially at the latest round in Trentino, Italy. At the iconic Pietramurata circuit, he battled for a podium finish until the very end, missing out on third place by just 1.6 seconds. He also impressed one week earlier in Sardinia with another excellent performance.
French tracks have traditionally suited Mikula well, and his experience on them could once again play in his favor. He currently sits 11th in the MX2 World Championship standings, just one point shy of the overall Top 10.
During the month-long break between the Trentino and Lacapelle-Marival rounds, neither rider slowed down. As part of their preparation and bike setup work, they competed in the Junior Czech Championship event in Jinín, South Bohemia, where Julius Mikula claimed victory and Václav Janout finished second. The remainder of the break was dedicated to intensive training and further preparation away from the race schedule.
The Circuit Georges Filhol itself ranks among the more technical and physically demanding tracks on the French motocross calendar. It is known for its fast rhythm, technical sections, and multiple racing lines that often produce exciting battles. French fans also traditionally create one of the loudest atmospheres of the entire MXGP season.
Expectations heading into the Lacapelle-Marival round are particularly high for Mikula. His performances so far have clearly given him the confidence and momentum needed to aim even higher.
