Barely three months after the conclusion of the 2021 season, the FIM World Championship starts again this weekend, at the spectacular Matterley Basin circuit in Winchester, England. The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 Team starts with sky-high ambitions. After Renaux’ world title last season, the Belgian team wants to add another gold plate this year.

Flash back to 2021. A phenomenal season for the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 Team. Maxime Renaux world champion, Jago Geerts second in the championship, nine Grand Prix wins and the Manufacturers’ world title with Yamaha. “A season that is almost impossible to match”, says team owner Hans Corvers, who celebrates 25th years of cooperation with Yamaha in 2022. “But our main goal remains the same: the world title.” 2021 MX2 world champion Renaux decided to move up to the MXGP class, which means that the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 Team will line up two riders in 2022: Jago Geerts (21) and Thibault Benistant (19). However, the French teenager will not race in Matterley Basin, as he continues the rehabilitation of his left knee. Geerts is therefore the only factory rider at the start in England. The Belgian has fond memories of Matterley Basin. On March 1, 2020 Geerts grabbed his first ever Grand Prix win at Winchester.

Higher intensity
“I have adjusted my physical preparation a bit this winter”, says Geerts. “I opted for a larger volume and a higher intensity. My physical condition is the best it’s ever been. I’m feeling also comfortable on the bike. I rode a lot. In France, Sardinia and even in the United States. It was nice to ride on many different types of tracks. Especially in the States. After finishing second two times in a row, my goal is very clear this season: the world title. Let’s hope third time’s the charm.”
After two tough seasons of restrictions – due to the COVID-19 pandemic – the FIM Motocross World Championship returns to a two-day format. The riders will have six sessions, including a qualifying race on Saturday, to improve their setup.