FIM Europe Magazine #02|2023

Page 8

MAGAZINE FIM EUROPE

02 | 23 April • May • June
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CONTENTS

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE

Chief Editor: Dalila Agrati

Photo Credit: Coen Vleugels, Dorna, Hellas Rally Raid, Infront, Jarek Pabijan, Maxxis, MotoXRacing, MYLAPS, RFME, Toma Nedelea, Xiem, Yamaha

FIM EUROPE

Viale delle Arti, 181 00054 Fiumicino (Italy) fimeuropepress@gmail.com

FIM EUROPE PRESS OFFICE

Dalila Agrati dalila.agrati@fim-europe.com

The articles pusblished in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of FIM Europe. The content of this pubblication is based on the best knowledge and information available at the time the articles were written. The copying of articles and photos even partially is forbidden unless permission has been requested from FIM Europe in advance and reference is made to the source (©FIM Europe).

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#02 - FIM EUROPE INTERNAL AUDIT AND MANAGEMENT COUNCIL 94 - MYLAPS 8 -MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS 16 4 Point of view - Michal Sikora 6 Editorial - Dalila Agrati 8 MYLAPS 12 Motoball 14 Dragbike 16 Motocross & Snowcross 40 Supermoto 44 Enduro & Rally 52 Track Racing 62 Road Racing 91 Trial 92 Vintage 94 FIM Europe Internal Audit and Management Council FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 3

POINT OF VIEW

104 4

MICHAL SIKORA

FIM Europe President

It is already a year passed since last FIM Europe Congress in Bucharest and elections of a new Management Council. This time passed extremely fast. We have visited some events and meetings of various commissions and associations always trying to be close to our members and Federations.

We are just after Congress in Zaragoza. Very successful thanks to strong efforts of Real Federación Motociclista Española. We have been celebrating together the Centenary of their engagement for motorcycle sport and tourism in Zaragoza – because Spanish motorcycle society met 100 years ago in this city which is located in the centre between Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.

And now sporting season is really on and going very well in terms of riders attendance and safety. It is worth to mention about our new event for young riders - the Airoh Mini Enduro European Trophy. It was very successful organization in Italy with the participation of almost 90 riders. There are plenty of information’s about European events and our activities in current issue.

I hope you will like the content and will enjoy reading!

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 5

EDITORIAL

DALILA AGRATI

Dear readers, glad to introduce you the second issue of the FIM Europe Magazine.

These last three months have been very intense with the start of all the European Championships and Cups. Calendars are in the height of the season and all disciplines are racing an exciting season with fights, battles, overtaking, emotions, wins, defeats. For me it’s a pleasure to tell you what is going on in the European FAMILY: that’s exactly what we are.

This #02 issue has also a special supplement. A few days ago, the 27th FIM Europe Congress was

held for the first time in Spain: last year we met in Bucharest after a two-year break, while this time we had a thrilling time in Zaragoza. The Real Federación Motociclista Española had the occasion to celebrate its 100th anniversary in the city where it is born in 1923: it has been a pleasure to celebrate with the Spanish Federation this important milestone.

I would like to thank the RFME for their efforts and dedication in preparing the Congress. I felt like home. Muchas gracias! Next year we’ll meet in Italy and I’m already looking forward to seeing you soon again!

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FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 7

Revolutionizing the Motorsport Landscape: MYLAPS

X2 Race Control Solution Leads the Way

MYLAPS X2 Race Control, the cutting-edge race control system, continues to make waves in the motorsport industry. With its advanced features and enhanced track safety capabilities, the X2 Race Control system has gained popularity among racing circuits globally. The latest installations of MYLAPS X2 Race Control at prominent tracks such as Balaton Park Circuit, Phillip Island, TT Circuit Assen, Circuit de Mirecourt and Tor Poznań, have further solidified MYLAPS’s position as the number one solution in the field.

The System

MYLAPS X2 Race Control is a fully integrated solution to control all the action happening on the track, using real-time data (GPS location and vehicle data) to enhance the safety of

personnel and racers on the track.

X2 Race Control is a modular system, meaning that you can select the components that suit the needs of your circuit. The system consists of 4 pillars: tracking, marshalling, advanced track management and live data.

Balaton Park Circuit

Located in Hungary, Balaton Park Circuit has joined the growing list of tracks embracing MYLAPS X2 Race Control. The circuit is equipped with 15 MYLAPS Light Panels and more than 30 X2 RaceLinks, for tracking and on-board flagging purposes. Now drivers will always have a clear view of the latest flagging status, whether that is trackside or on-board. The combination of real-time data tracking, advanced marshalling capabilities, and pre-

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cise timing systems ensures a seamless operation for both organizers and participants.

an unparalleled racing experience in a spectacular location.

TT Circuit Assen

The TT Circuit Assen, famously known as “The Cathedral of Speed,” is home to the Dutch TT MotoGP race, and has a legendary history in motorsport. To uphold its reputation as a world-class venue, the circuit has implemented MYLAPS X2 Race Control, taking its operations to new heights. With the X2 Race Control’s comprehensive suite list of components, including tracking, marshalling, advanced track management, and live data, TT

Balaton Park Circuit now stands ready to accommodate various racing series, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the world.

Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit

Renowned for its picturesque setting in Australia, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is no stranger to hosting world-class racing events, such as the MotoGP and World Superbikes. To further bolster its position as a leading racing destination and enhance their safety protocols, the circuit has integrated the MYLAPS X2 Race Control system. This state-of-the-art solution brings advanced track management

Circuit Assen can optimize safety procedures and enhance the overall racing experience for both riders and spectators. The MYLAPS X2 Race Control system ensures seamless race management at this iconic racing circuit.

Circuit de Mirecourt

features and reliable marshalling capabilities to Phillip Island, enabling race organizers to efficiently manage on-track activities and ensure the safety of participants. With MYLAPS X2 Race Control in place, Phillip Island offers

The French racetrack, Circuit de Mirecourt, located in Juvaincourt, has embraced the MYLAPS X2 Race Control system to bring its operations to the next level. By utilizing the advanced race management solution, this upcoming Grade 2 circuit aims to enhance track safety, improve race control efficiency, and elevate the overall racing experience for participants and fans. With MYLAPS X2 Race Control’s marshalling capabilities and precise timing features, Circuit de Mirecourt can host a wide range of racing events while maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 9

Sydney Motorsport Park

Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP), situated in New South Wales, Australia, renowned for hosting numerous rounds of the Australian Superbike Championship, has made significant advancements in improving safety, technology, and customer experience. As the only permanent race track in Sydney and one of two in Australia with a FIA/FIM Grade 2 Licence, the facility has consistently sought to modernize and improve its offerings. In 2022, SMSP underwent a comprehensive review and overhaul of its track safety and marshalling systems, selecting the MYLAPS X2 Race Control system as a key part of the upgrade. This integrated solution, including FIA Grade 2 Digital LED panels and advanced track management tools, utilizing real-time data to enhance safety for both personnel and track users.

ern circuits in the world. The Automobillklub Wielkopolski has upgraded the circuit with MYLAPS X2 Race Control making it one of the most modern circuits in the world.

All marshal posts have been equipped with X2 LED panels, wireless tablets for panels to be operated by marshals. The system is additio-

One notable improvement is the introduction of the MYLAPS X2 LED Panels, which replace the previous non-homologated track Light Panel system. These panels significantly improve flag signal visibility under various weather conditions and extreme viewing angles. SMSP has also implemented the X2 Link tracking and on-board marshalling system, allowing direct communication with drivers and riders to ensure prompt receipt of flag signals, ultimately enhancing the overall safety. Additionally, this system reduces the reliance on flag marshals, optimizing response times and operational costs.

Tor Poznań

Tor Poznań, Poland’s largest circuit, and something of a hidden racing gem. Tor Poznań Circuit has become one of the most mod-

ally expanded with GPS antennas with transmitters, which will enable the circuit to track every car and motorcycle on the track. Everything is combined into one track and race management system.

The usage of X2 Race Control prepares the Poznan Circuit for the future of racing, says Bartosz Bieliński, president of Automobillklub Wielkopolski. ’’It is a consistently implemented program of modernization of the only homologated racetrack in Poland, implemented by Automobilklub Wielkopolski, which aims to take a place among the top European motorsport facilities, and whose first effects are already visible. Recently Poznań Circuit was visited by representatives of the FIA European Truck Racing Championship. The visit was promising and it is possible that the track, apart from racing cars, motorcycles, karting and recently also rallycross, will gain another functionality’’.

For more information about X2 Race Control, or if you wish to discuss circuit specific needs then make sure to visit our website mylaps. com/timing-solutions-motorized/x2-racecontrol

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Stay Ahead of Danger with the MYLAPS X2

Introducing the ultimate solution for improved operator response time and enhanced track safety, the MYLAPS X2 Race Control Manager CCTV add-on module! Say goodbye to manually switching and following camera streams and hello to a seamless and efficient experience. Keep your track and drivers safe with this powerful addition to your existing X2 Race Control Manger software.

cation, improving response time and enhancing the safety of all involved.

The X2 Race Control Manger CCTV add-on application generates alerts about unexpected track behaviour and helps visualize them in a clear and efficient manner. The CCTV module is also highly customizable. Decide which alerts to receive, which cameras should be displayed on the spot monitor, and which X2 RaceLink’s should be followed.

Receive the following alerts:

• When a vehicle suddenly stops

• Vehicles driving below minimum track speeds

• When a vehicle unexpectedly leaves the track

• Losing connection with a X2 RaceLink

The X2 Race Control Manager CCTV add-on module creates a correlation between the X2 RaceLink’s location on the track and the individual camera’s field of view. This means that when an incident occurs, the CCTV module automatically switches to the camera that provides the clearest view of the incident lo-

X2 Race Control Manager CCTV add-on module further improves real-time track monitoring, helping to identify potential safety hazards and the right steps to mitigate them. This includes monitoring track and vehicle conditions during track activity, ensuring that safety protocols are being followed, and identifying and addressing any dangerous behavior on the track.

CCTV cameras Race Control CCTV add-on
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 11
X2 Race Control Manager CCTV add-on module

FINALLY BACK IN ACTION!

After 4 years without any international competitions the Motoball Club of Kretinga, in Lithuania, welcomed more than 7.000 visitors for the first round of the European Motoball Champions Cup. Fast games, technical finesse and hard, but fair fights, and a lot of goals: this is exactly what the Motoball Commission was expecting from this new format.

Day 1

Troyes – Kuppenheim, 3 : 4

In the first match the French champion Suma Troyes met with the German champion Puma Kuppenheim. After a tight game the German team won with 3:4. Both teams were not able to arrive with the complete line up due to different reason, but it was Motoball on the highest level. There were passes, fast breaks, 7 goals and spectacular falls, without significant injuries. There was only a short moment of shock when Suma Troyes received a hard shot to the head, but after a 5-minute break from treatment, he was able to continue playing.

Day 1

Kretinga – Troyes, 4 : 1

The game started with high speed and within short term the home team scored the first goal under the enthusiastic cheers of the spectators. In the following quarters Kretinga scored 2 more goals, before Suma Troyes could close the gap to 3:1. In the final quarter numerous goal chances were thwarted by both goalkeepers, so that only Kretinga could score one time more.

Day 2

Kretinga – Kuppenheim, 1 : 5

The Lithuanian team scored already after 5 minutes, but the German one fought back and scored 2 times within 1 minute. Kuppenheim first converted a penalty kick and scored directly after with a fast break. In the second and third period both teams had a lot of chances, but either the massive defence, the goalpost or the great goal keepers prevented further hits. In the last quarter Kretinga Team lost their coach and captain, which could not start due to a technical defect. The German champion took advantage of the opportunity and scored 3 times within a few minutes. The game was decided and Kuppenheim won with 1:5.

MOTOBALL > EUROPEAN MOTOBALL CHAMPIONS CUP
ROUND 13TH - 14TH MAY KRETINGA, LITHUANIA #01
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FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 13

THE SEASON KICKS OFF IN GREAT BRITAIN

It was a great day of racing at Santa Pod Raceway, where the Dragbike European Championship and Dragbike Junior Cup kicked off with the first round of the season. Over the weekend the event was attended by 30.000 spectators with spectacular runs, close racing and several surprises.

The most contended classes were Top Fuel Bike and Super Street Bike, in which the competition was fierce with a far-above-par number of outstanding results that can be seen as absolute top-of-the-bill worldwide. Notably the qualifying sessions between Rikard Gustafsson from Sweden and Neil Midgley from England in TopFuel, between Marcus Christiansen from Denmark and Vesa Lipponen in Super Twin and between Daniël Donat Lencses and Alan Morrison from England in Super Street brought extreme and nail-biting competition. It's an understatement to call this event a historic experience.

Two new records set, both for top speed: Alan Morrison with a speed of 370 kph in Super Street and Rikard Gustafsson with a mind-blowing 420 kph in Top Fuel Bike.

The winners of the event

TopFuelBike - Neil Midgley, GBR

Super Twin Bike - Marcus Christiansen, DEN

ProStockBike - Bertrand Maurice, FRA

SuperStreetBike - Alan Morrison, GBR

Junior Dragbike - Richard Willcox, GBR

14 DRAG RACING > DRAG BIKE EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP & JUNIOR CUP ROUND 26TH - 29TH MAY SANTA POD, GREAT BRITAIN
#01

SWEDEN HOSTS THE SECOND ROUND

Second round of the Dragbike European Championship in Tierp, Sweden. With a great attendance number of riders from all over Europe, the event saw a very very competitive fight for the eliminations. Both qualification days were granted with above average conditions, but on Sunday the weather unfortunately turned against so it was raced just the first round of eliminations.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 15 ROUND 15TH - 18TH JUNE TIERP, SWEDEN #02
DRAG RACING > DRAG BIKE EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP & JUNIOR CUP

LATA TOPS A FULL ITALIAN PODIUM IN EMX250

The second round of the EMX250 and EMX125 presented by FMF Racing Championships in Pietramurata came to an end. What a weekend for both classes as we witnessed some quality and skilful riding.

The EMX250 saw a podium completed by three young Italian riders with KTM Beddini Racing Team’s Valerio Lata winning in front of Red Plate holder Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing Team’s Andrea Bonacorsi and VRT KTM Factory Juniors’ Ferruccio Zanchi.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 250
16TH
ROUND
APRIL PIETRAMURATA, ITALY #02
“I want to thank my team and everyone."
16
Valerio Lata

BONACORSI HEROIC WINNER

ROUND

30TH APRIL

AGUEDA, PORTUGAL

In EMX250, the Red Plate and favourite Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing Team’s Andrea Bonacorsi won in a formidable manner after dealing with problems on his bike in race 2. It was in front of BT Racing Team’s Kay Karssemakers and VRT KTM Factory Juniors’ Ferruccio Zanchi.

#03
“I showed again who is the fastest and for that I want to thank all my Yamahateam, and Monster."
MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 250 FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 17
Andrea Bonacorsi

VALK GETS FIRST EMX250 WIN OF HIS CAREER

That was a great weekend and strong fourth round for the EMX250 Championship in Spain with many battles.

At the end of the weekend, it was Fantic Factory Team Maddii’s Cas Valk who clinched his first win of the season in front of Championship leader Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing Team’s Andrea Bonacorsi and BT Racing Team’s Kay Karssemakers once again on the podium.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 250
18 ROUND 06TH
#04
"I had a first good race with third place, in race two I took the lead after a good start and then I kept riding at my pace so I’m happy."really Cas Valk
07TH MAY INTU XANADU ARROYOMOLINOS, SPAIN

FIRST SUCCESS FOR VAN ERP

In EMX250, it was Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing Team’s Ivano Van Erp who won his first EMX250 round of his career with a solid performance in front of the always consistent BT Racing Team’s Kay Karssemakers and Red Plate holder Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing Team’s Andrea Bonacorsi.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 250 FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 19
ROUND 04TH JUNE KEGUMS,
#05
"I rode well all weekend and I can finally get an overall win!"
Ivano Van Erp
LATVIA

FIRST VICTORY EVER FOR ROSSI

In EMX250, it was Team VRT KTM Factory Juniors’ Marc-Antoine Rossi who won his first EMX250 round of his career with showing great speed in front of Red Plate holder Hutten Metaal Yamaha Racing Team’s Andrea Bonacorsi and BT Racing Team’s Kay Karssemakers getting his 4th consecutive podium.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 250
"I am happyvery for my firstoverall win. I took the Holeshot and kept the lead until the end. "
ROUND 10TH - 11TH JUNE TEUSCHENTHAL, GERMANY #06 20
Marc-Antoine Rossi
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 21

MATHIS VALIN TAKES HIS FIRST WIN

The first round of the EMX125 presented by FMF took place in Switzerland and it was 737 Performers GASGAS’s Mathis Valin who clinched the victory with a strong performance throughout the whole round.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 125 ROUND 08TH - 09TH APRIL FRAUENFELD, SWITZERLAND #01
22
“It is amazing, a goodvery weekend for me. I want to thank my team for this weekend!”
Mathis Valin

REISULIS DOMINATES THE EMX125 IN ITALY

In EMX125 presented by FMF Racing, MJC Yamaha Official EMX125’s Janis Martin Reisulis completely dominated the round in Trentino ahead of Fantic Factory Team Maddii riders Maximilian Werner second and Elias Escandell third.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 125 ROUND 16TH APRIL PIETRAMURATA, ITALY #02
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 23
“I am happyvery and I want to thank everyone around me who worked hard too.”
Janis Martin Reisulis

REISULIS CONTINUES HIS DOMINATION

ROUND

30TH APRIL AGUEDA, PORTUGAL #03

In EMX125 presented by FMF Racing, MJC Yamaha Official EMX125’s Janis Martin Reisulis got his second win of the season in front of 737 Performers GASGAS’s Mathis Valin and Fantic Factory Team Maddii’s Maximilian Werner.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 125
“I’m happyvery to get the win and keep the Red Plate.”
24
Janis Martin Reisulis

AMAZING WIN IN FRANCE FOR VALIN

The fourth round of the EMX125 presented by FMF Racing in Villars sous Ecot delivered an amazing show especially for the French crowd.

The races of Saturday and Sunday were marked by the new layout which gave great challenges for riders while the public responded present to the event. It was a fantastic action-packed weekend of motocross.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 125 ROUND 21ST MAY VILLARS SOUS ECOT, FRANCE #04
“Even if I could not win the second race it’s amazing to win the round here in front of the fans.”
Mathis Valin
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 25

ONE MORE PODIUM FOR VALIN

In EMX125 presented by FMF Racing, 737 Performers GASGAS’s Mathis Valin got a back-to-back win in front of Red plate holder MJC Yamaha Official EMX125’s Janis Martin and Fantic Factory Team Maddii’s Maximilian Werner.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 125
ROUND
04TH JUNE KEGUMS, LATVIA
#05
"The first race didn’t go as planned but winning in the second race, even if I went down during the race was really amazing.”
26
Mathis Valin

REISULIS IS BACK ON TOP

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 125 ROUND 10TH - 11TH JUNE TEUSCHENTHAL, GERMANY #06
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 27
“I am also very happy to extend my lead in the Championship".
Janis Reisulis
In EMX125 presented by FMF Racing, Red Plate Holder MJC Yamaha Official EMX125’s Janis Martin won in front of 737 Performers GASGAS’s Mathis Valin and Sturm STC Racing Team’s Mads who stepped on his first podium.

SOUTH EAST ZONE

#01 GREECE

KRINIDES | 08TH - 09TH APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Daniel Marian, ROU

2. Nikolay PAVLOV, BGR

3. Anna KOLNOKOOV, SRB

Final classification EMX 85

1. Aron KATONA, HUN

2. Alexandru DUMITRU SAMI, ROU

3. Georgi GINOV, BGR

#02 BULGARIA

SEVLIEVO | 22ND - 23RD APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Anna KOLNOOKOV, SRB

2. Nikolay PAVLOV, BUL

3. Pavel MARKOV, BUL

Final classification EMX 85

1. Vuk CAJIC, SRB

2. Georgi GINOV, BUL

3. Bas Hasan HUSEYIN, TUR

#03 TÜRKIYE

AFYONKARAHISAR | 20TH - 21ST MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Anna KOLNOOKOV, SRB

2. Markov PAVEL, BUL

3. Daniel MARIAN, ROU

Final classification EMX 85

1. Sami DIMITRU, ROU

2. Georgi GINOV, BUL

3. Efe OKUR, TUR

#04 BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

KREŠEVO | 27TH - 28TH MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Marian DANIEL, ROU

2. Pavel MARKOV, BUL

3. Anna KOLNOOKOV, SRB

Final classification EMX 85

1. Sami Alexandru DUMITRU, ROU

2. Efe OKUR, TUR

3. Antonio TOPALOVIC, BIG

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN 6585
28

SOUTH WEST ZONE

#01 FRANCE

DARDON GUEGNON | 29TH - 30TH APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Alex NOVAK, SLO

2. Tim LOPES, FRA

3. Taj GOLEŽ, SLO

Final classification EMX 85

1. Ricardo BAUER, AUS

2. Nicolo ALVISI, ITA

3. Ryan OPPLIGER, SUI

#02 SLOVENIA

OREHOVA VAS | 20TH - 21ST MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Alex NOVAK, SLO

2. Taj GOLEŽ, SLO

3. Francesco ASSINI, ITA

Final classification EMX 85

1. Riccardo PINI, LAT

2. Juan IZAGUIRRE PINTO, ESP

3. Nicolo ALVISI, ITA

#03 PORTUGAL

FERNÃO JOANES | 27TH - 28ST MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Francesco ASSINI, ITA

2. Tim LOPES, FRA

3. Gonzalo SALVADOR, ESP

Final classification EMX 85

1. Liam BRUNEAU, FRA

2. Riccardo PINI, ITA

3. Valentino VAZQUEZ, ESP

#04 CROATIA

MLADINA | 17TH - 18TH JUNE

Final classification EMX 65

1. Roko IVANDIC, CRO

2. Francesco ASSINI, ITA

3. Alex NOVAK, SLO

Final classification EMX 85

1. Riccardo PINI, FRA

2. Nicolo ALVISI, ITA

3. Ricardo BAUER, AUT

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 29
6585

NORTH EUROPE ZONE

#01 ESTONIA

PARNU | 22ND - 23RD APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Theo KOLTS, EST

2. Gregor LOOTUS, EST

3. Rainers GRASIS, LAT

Final classification EMX 85

1. Travis LEOK, EST

2. Lucas LEOK, EST

3. Michał PSIUK, POL

#02 POLAND

OLECKO | 12TH - 14TH MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Theo KOLTS, EST

2. Georg LOOTUS, EST

3. Robin Robert MOOSES, EST

Final classification EMX 85

1. Travis LEOK, EST

2. Lucas LEOK, EST

3. Michał PSIUK, POL

#03 LATVIA

ALOJA | 20TH - 21ST MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Georg LOOTUS, EST

2. Patriks CIRULIS, LAT

3. Martins CIRULIS, LAT

Final classification EMX 85

1. Jekabs HUDOLEJS, LAT

2. Travis LEOK, EST

3. Lucas LEOK, EST

#04 LITHUANIA

ŠIAULIAI | 27TH - 28TH MAY

Final classification EMX 65

1. Georg LOOTUS, EST

2. Enri LUSTUS, EST

3. Patriks CIRULIS, LAT

Final classification EMX 85

1. Travis LEOK, EST

2. Lucas LEOK, EST

3. Michał PSIUK, POL

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN 6585
30

CENTRAL EUROPE ZONE

#01 BELGIUM

LOMMEL | 08TH - 09TH APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Harry DALE, GBR

2. Kenzo JASPERS, NED

3. Torre VAN MECHGELEN, BEL

Final classification EMX 85

1. Dani HEITINK, NED

2. Jarne BERVOETS, BEL

3. Dean GREGOIRE, NED

#02 DENMARK

SLAGELSE | 15TH - 16TH APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Harry DALE, GBR

2. Luca NIERYCHLO, GER

3. Torre VAN MECHGELEN, BEL

Final classification EMX 85

1. Dani HEITINK, NED

2. Dean GREGOIRE, NED

3. Dex KOOIKER, NED

#03 GERMANY

PRISANNEWITZ | 29TH - 30TH APRIL

Final classification EMX 65

1. Harry DALE, GBR

2. Luca NIERYCHLO, GER

3. Teunis SPIJKERMAN, NED

Final classification EMX 85

1. Dean GREGOIRE, NED

2. Jarne BERVOETS, BEL

3. Dani HEITINK, NED

#04 SLOVAKIA

VEĽKÉ UHERCE | 03RD - 04TH JUNE

Final classification EMX 65

1. Harry DALE, GBR

2. Luca NIERYCHLO, GER

3. Brian GZLES, GBR

Final classification EMX 85

1. Dex KOOIKER, NED

2. Jarne BERVOETS, BEL

3. Moritz ERNECKER, BEL

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 31
MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX 6585

SEMIFINAL CE AND NE ZONE

24TH - 25TH JUNE AXEL, THE NETHERLANDS

The first EMX65 / EMX85 European Championship - Semifinal in the history of the FIM Europe was race in Axel, in the Netherlands. The Central Europe and North Europe zone met for a challenge with 47 riders in the EMX65 and 50 in the EMX85.

EMX65

In the first race of EMX65 the challenge for the win was a matter between CE zone leader Harry Dale (KTM) and NE leader Gregor Lootus (KMT). At the end the English rider took the victory ahead of the Estonian. Third position for Theo Kolts (GasGas), the second-best rider of NE zone.

Race 2 saw the battle between Dale and home rider Kenzo Jaspers (GasGas), second-best rider of CE zone. At the end the English rider managed to take a double victory. Third position for another Dutch rider, Teunis Spijkerman (GasGas).

EMX85

Race 1 seemed to be a race of the Central Europe zone, with the win of Dani Heitnik (Husqvarna) ahead of Jarne Bervoets (KTM) and Dex Kooiker (Husqvarna).

Same story in the second heat, with a zone challenge that saw the triumph of Belgian rider Bervoets. Second position for Kooiker and third for Dean Gregoire (KTM).

FINAL CLASSIFICATION

EMX 65

1. Harry Dale, GBR

2. Kenzo Jaspers, NED

3. Teunis Spijkerman, NED

EMX 85

1. Jarne Bervoets, BEL

2. Dex Kooiker, NED

3. Dean Gregoire, NED

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN 6585 32

SEMIFINAL SW AND SE ZONE

01ST - 02ND JULY

GAZZANE DI PRESEGLIE, ITALY

After the challenge between the Central Europe and North Europe zone, the SW and SE zone met in Gazzane di Preseglie, Italy, for the second EMX65 / EMX85 European Championship – Semifinal.

EMX65

The first race of EMX65 saw the win of the SW zone leader Francesco Assini (GasGas) ahead of French riders Tim Lopes (GasGas) and Loan Torro (GasGas). Race 2 was ruled by Slovenian Taj Golez (Husqvarna), who won the qualifying race on Saturday, but finished sixth in the first heat. With the second position and 22 points the Italian rider Assini took the Semifinal win. Third place for Gonzalo Salvador (KTM), fourth for Alex Novak (KTM) and fifth for Loan Torro.

EMX85

The EMX85 class was dominated by home hero Riccardo Pini (KTM). The SW leader took full points by winning both of the races. The challenge for the podium was a matter between Aron Katona (KTM) and the second best rider of SW zone Nicolò Alvisi (GasGas). They shared one second and one third each, but with the second round being the deciding one, the Hungarian came up on top.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 33
6585
EMX 65 1. Francesco Assini, ITA 2. Taj GoleŽ, SLO 3. Loan Torro, FRA EMX 85 1. Riccardo Pini, ITA 2. Aron Katona, HUN
FINAL CLASSIFICATION
3. Nicolò Alvisi, ITA

VAN DRUNEN AND BARKER CLAIM THE TITLE

The EMX Women' European Championship raced the last round of the season featuring the EMX65 / EMX85 European Championship – SW and SE zone Semifinal in Gazzane di Preseglie, Italy.

For the sixth time in a row Lotte Van Drunen (Kawasaki) ruled the weekend with a masterpiece of 25+25 points. The Dutch rider had no rivals this season, winning all the races and becoming the new EMX Women’ Champion. Difficult season to date for the defending champion Mathea Selebo (Yamaha), who with another double second position confirmed the second place in the standings. With a double third in Gazzane di Preseglie, Alexandra Massury (KTM) is third in the standing too.

In EMX Women 125 the fight for the title was a matter between Lucy Barker (KTM) and Tyra Backstrom (GasGas). At the end of a thrilling season with great battles in Italy they took one win each, but that was enough for the English rider to take the 2023 title. Third place in race and in the standings too for Swedish rider Elsa Andersson Lof.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN WOMEN 34
“I won all the qualifying races and all the races this season, more than happy with this result! Big thanks to all my sponsors”
Lotte Van Drunen

#01 DENMARK

SLAGELSE | 15TH - 16TH APRIL

Final classification EMX Women

1. Lotte Van Drunen, NED

2. Sara Andersen, DEN

3. Mathilda Maria Huss, SWE

Final classification EMX Women 125

1. Lucy Barker, GBR

2. Oda Tondersen, NOR

3. Elsa Andersson Löf, SWE

#02 GERMANY

PRISANNEWITZ | 29TH - 30TH APRIL

Final classification EMX Women

1. Lotte Van Drunnen, NED

2. Mathea Selebø, NOR

3. Alexandra Massury, GER

Final classification EMX Women 125

1. Lucy Barker, GBR

2. Tyra Bäckström, SWE

3. Elsa Andersson Löf, SWE

#03 POLAND

OLECKO | 12TH - 14TH MAY

Final classification EMX Women

1. Lotte Van Drunnen, NED

2. Mathea Selebø, NOR

3. Lucy Barker, GBR

Final classification EMX Women 125

1. Lucy Barker, GBR

2. Tyra Bäckström, SWE

3. Elsa Andersson Löf, SWE

#04 LITHUANIA

ŠIAULIAI | 27TH - 28TH MAY

Final classification EMX Women

1. Lotte Van Drunnen, NED

2. Mathea Selebø, NOR

3. Camille Viaud, FRA

Final classification EMX Women 125

1. Lucy Barker, GBR

2. Tyra Bäckström, SWE

3. Nellie Fransson, SWE

#05 SLOVAKIA

VEĽKÉ UHERCE | 03RD - 04TH JUNE

Final classification EMX Women

1. Lotte Van Drunnen, NED

2. Mathea Selebø, NOR

3. Elena Kapsamer, AUT

Final classification EMX Women 125

1. Lucy Barker, GBR

2. Tyra Bäckström, SWE

3. Elsa Andersson LÖF, SWE

#06 ITALY

GAZZANE DI PRESEGLIE | 01ST - 02ND JULY

Final classification EMX Women

1. Lotte Van Drunnen, NED

2. Mathea Selebø, NOR

3. Alexandra Massury, GER

Final classification EMX Women 125

1. Tyra Bäckström, SWE

2. Lucy Barker, GBR

3. Elsa Andersson Löf, SWE

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 35

KEVIN SAAR STARTS THE NEW SEASON WITH A WIN

European Champion Kevin Saar was the man to beat at the first event of the 2023 Championship and Race 1 featured the win of Norwegian Joakim Granli who managed to take on the challenge of defeating Kevin Saar by a comfortable margin. Kevin had to settle for second place while Patrick Turrini of Italy was third.

In the second race Kevin managed to win in great style with a 47 second gap on the second placed Karl Robin Rillo, also from Estonia, thus securing his first win of the season and the lead in the Championship standings. Third was again Patrick Turrini while winner of race 1 Joakim Granli got demoted 5 places to 7th for failing the noise test after the race, therefore missing the overall podium by 1 point.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX QUAD ROUND 10TH - 11TH JUNE LANGE,
#01
ESTONIA
Overall top three 1. Kevin SAAR, EST 2. Karl Robin RILLO, EST
36
3. Patrick TURRINI, ITA

TURRINI RULES IN GDANSK

GDANSK, POLAND

Round 2 saw the fight between Estonian Karl Robin Rillo and Italian Patrick Turrini, who ruled the free practice and the qualifying. They put on a show both in Race1 and in Race2, sharing the victory. If Rillo won the first heat, Turrini ruled the second one from the start to the end. Great battle for the third step of the podium: Roman Gwiazda and Oliver Sansom were both third and fourth, but thanks to the P3 in the second race, Gwiazda took the third overall.

Overall top three

1. Patrick TURRINI, ITA

2. Karl Robin RILLO, EST

3. Roman GWIAZDA, POL

ROUND 17TH - 18TH JUNE
#02
MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX QUAD FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 37

GUSTAV SALOMONSSON CLINCHES THE TITLE

The Snowcross European Championship displayed an amazing show for all the large crowd present in Kirkenes, Norway, together with the FIM Snowcross World Championship and FIM Women’s Snowcross World Cup.

In the town, far away behind the arctic circle, polar day has just begun and riders could enjoy light 24 hour a day. The Kirkenes Motorklubb hosted the event celebrating its 20th anniversary and sunshine and freezing temperature kept the 650-meter-long snow track in perfect conditions. Kirkenes was an amazing place for the series, as Snowmobiles are really important for the region as they are one of the prime vehicle choices to move around the region by locals. The city is also well known for its Snowhotel, which is the only ice hotel opened all year.

The perfect conditions were reunited to offer an amazing and special show with number of spectators coming to enjoy this amazing sport. The day started with a remarkable Opening Ceremony which included a song performed by Famous Norwegian singer Kevin Boine and a speech of the Norwegian Minister of Transport, Jon Ivar Nygard. The ceremony was followed by the spectacular freestyle snowcross show with Rasmus Johanson putting on an incredible demonstration.

17 riders fought for the European title. With a confidently and perfect 1-1 and a spectacular performance, Swedish rider Gustav Salomonsson won the European title ruling both the heats. Double second position for Emil Mikalsen, from Norway, followed by Jan Even Romsdal in third.

Top three

1. Gustav Salomonsson (50 points)

2. Emil Mikalsen (44 points)

3. Jan Even Romsdal (36 points)

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > SNOWCROSS EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 29TH
WC
APRIL
ARENA KIRKENES, NORWAY #01
38
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 39

KEVIN VANDI AND ANDREA BENVENUTI RULES THE OPENING ROUND

S4 Race 1

With a tremendous start, Alex Jimenez Ruiz (L30 Racing TM Factory) took control of the S4 Race 1 soon after the start, chased by Francisco Requena Gomez (Husqvarna) and Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing TM Factory). The second lap saw a dramatic turn of events when Ruiz slipped, and Vandi took advantage of the situation to overtake Gomez and move up to first place. The rider of the L30 Racing Team set an unbeatable race pace and opened a solid gap over rivals, eventually winning the race. Behind the race leader, Gomez and Lorenzo Papalini (L30 Racing TM Factory) were the protagonists of a hard-fought battle. Papalini crashed while trying to overtake his rival, so that the Spanish rider got the green light for the second spot. Alex Ruiz ran from the last position and qualified third after a tremendous recovery.

S4 Race 2

As the red lights blinked off Alex Jimenez Ruiz (L30 Racing TM Factory) stretched away at the front to

take the lead, followed by team-mate Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing TM Factory). Vandi pressed team-mate for the first laps so that he made a mistake in the fourth one and Vandi could overtake him. Kevin pulled away for a solo victory. During the race Ruiz had to defend himself from Francisco Requena Gomez (Husqvarna), who tried to take the second position away from him.

After the two resounding victories, Kevin Vandi won the GP followed by team-mate Alex Jimenez Ruiz. Francisco Requena Gomez was third.

SM

Junior Race 1

The SM Junior featured a breathtaking battle among the top three riders of the standings. Kokes slipped at the beginning of the final lap and handed the victory straight to Benvenuti, who finished in front of Terraneo.

SM Junior Race 2

Nathan Terraneo (KTM) was the author of a phenomenal start and led the race followed by Matej Kokes (Husqvarna) and Race 1 winner Andrea Benvenuti (KTM). Terrano tried to open a gap but could not make it. Kokes crashed halfway through the race, so Benvenuti moved forward and chased Terraneo. The Italian rider attacked his rival on the final lap and won Race 2.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN > S4 AND SM JUNIOR EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 30TH APRIL BUSCA, ITALY #01
40

DOUBLE VICTORY FOR ALEX RUIZ JIMENEZ

S4 Race 2

Alex Ruiz Jimenez (L30 Racing TM Factory) came home with a solid double victory and an excellent result at the end of the racing day in Tramatza, Italy. Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing TM Factory) was second and is still the red plate holder, while the third place went to Francisco Gomez Requena (TM).

S4 Race 1

At the start of the first S4 race Alex Ruiz Jimenez (L30 Racing TM Factory) headed the field and was chased by Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing TM Factory), Francisco Gomez Requena (TM) and home rider Michele Cuccu (TM) who battled it out for the runner up spot. Ruiz set consistent laps and left rivals far behind, eventually being the protagonist of a solitary race. The second position was very desired and despite Vandi seemed to be able to manage the situation, he had to surrender to Gomez in the ninth lap. The race was filled with action, and with one lap to go, the Spanish rider was overtaken by Kevin Vandi who qualified second. Michele Cuccu finished fourth.

There was a lot of excitement at the start of the second heat, where several riders opened the gas before the red lights blinked off and were assigned a 15-second penalty, like Francisco Gomez Requena. Gomez took the lead but had to pass it to Alex Ruiz Jimenez (L30 Racing TM Factory), followed by team-mate Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing TM Factory). Ruiz Jimenez opened a small gap which was enough for him to take the victory. Despite the penalty, Gomez Requena and Vandi battled it out for the second place with Vandi eventually conquering the position. Alex Ruiz Jimenez stepped on the first step of the podium joined by Vandi, second and current Championship leader, and Francisco Gomez Requena.

SUPERMOTO > S4 AND SM JUNIOR EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 21ST MAY TRAMATZA, ITALY #02
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 41

GOMEZ AND ALBRECHT WIN IN GERMANY

The riders of the S4 and SM Junior put on a great show that paid off the audience arrived in St. Wendel. In the S4, Spanish Francisco Gomez Requena (Husqvarna) triumphed thanks to a double victory and Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing Tm Factory) is the current Championship leader, while young German Til Albrecht starred in the SM Junior.

S4

In Race 1 Alex Ruiz Jimenez (L30 Racing Tm Factory) did not make any mistake at the start of the race and perfectly took advantage of the pole position, his main rivals Francisco Gomez Requena (Husqvarna) and Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing Tm Factory) could not do anything else apart from following him. After a few laps Alex Ruiz Jimenez crashed forcing the race to be red flagged, unfortunately the strong Spanish rider could not get back to racing. When the race restarted Francisco Gomez Requena took the lead, Kevin Vandi could not keep up with the Spanish challenger and had to be happy with the second position. Third on the finish line was Lorenzo Papalini (L30 Racing Tm Factory). The second moto, without Alex Ruiz Jimenez, was a battle for two between Francisco Gomez Requena (Husqvarna) and Kevin Vandi (L30 Racing Tm Factory) but the challenge lasted just the time to get to the first corner. Gomez Requena pulled away at the start and left no room for his rival. The Spanish had an incredible rhythm at the German city circuit and was able to open a solid gap over rivals and manage most of the race.

Lorenzo Papalini (L30 Racing Tm Factory), third qualified in the race,

slipped at the second corner and threw away the chance of reaching the podium. Alexis Delong (TM) finished third thanks to a solid race.

SM Junior

Race 1 saw a close fight in the SM Junior, where Matej Kokes (Husqvarna) took advantage of the first position but during the second lap he was overtaken by home rider Til Albrecht (Yamaha) who set his race pace. Kokes tried to stay close to him for the whole moto but the German rider managed to take a slight advantage lap after lap and crossed the finish line alone. Christoph Steiner (KTM) was third. Standings leader Andrea Benvenuti (KTM) improved his performance after an unsatisfactory result in the qualifying and finished with the fourth place. Matej Kokes (Husqvarna) made a mistake at the start of the second Race 2 losing several positions at the first corner, Paul Mueller (GasGas) took the lead followed by Til Albrecht (Yamaha).

During the second lap Albrecht took the lead and managed to take a great advantage thanks to an excellent pace that allowed him to win the race, more than six seconds ahead of the second qualified. Matej Kokes, who was fifth after the first lap, had to work hard to recover and get back at the front. With two laps to go, he moved to second position, Paul Mueller was third at the end of the race.

The overall podium went to the winner Til Albrecht, thanks to his double victory, Matej Kokes was second and is the current series leader. The third step of the podium went to Christoph Steiner.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN > S4 AND SM JUNIOR EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
11TH JUNE ST.
ROUND
WENDEL, GERMANY #03
42
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 43

LORENZO MACORITTO AND PIETRO SCARDINA WIN AT SEASON OPENING IN ITALY

The 2023 Borilli Enduro European Championship kicked off in Fabriano, Italy, offering a stunning backdrop to the racing at round one. Providing typically Italian terrain, the special tests ensured challenging trails, with a 7 km long Enduro Test, a slippery Cross Test and a stony Extreme Test.

Day 1

Italian rider Lorenzo Macoritto (Fantic) ruled the whole day getting the overall win with a 20-second gap on Matej Skuta (Beta), second, and the young Pietro Scardina (Fantic), third.

Scardinia also won the Youth class, tying in second position the French Romain Dagna and in third compatriot Luca Colorio (Husqvarna).

The Junior 1 winner was Riccardo Fabris (Husqvarna), while Skuta won the Junior 2. German flag waved on E1 podium: Andreas Beier (Beta) got the best class time ahead of Aleksander Bracik (Rieju) and Riccardo Celesti (Fantic).

Lorenzo Bazzurri (Husqvarna) triumphed in the E2 thanks to an 8-second lead over Frenchman Killian Irigoyen (Husqvarna) and the British Alex Walton (GasGas).

Lorenzo Macoritto won the E3 class, while Maurizio Micheluz (Husqvarna) the Senior 40 European Cup and Tanja Schlosser (Beta) the Women.

In the 50cc Trophy Matteo Fersini (Valenti) topped, while in the Trade Team class won Diligenti Racing (Maurizio Micheluz, David Abgrall, Luca Colorio, Jacopo Traini).

44
ENDURO & RALLY > ENDURO EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 15TH - 16TH APRIL FABRIANO, ITALY #01

Day 2

The Overall saw Pietro Scardina, Luca Colorio and Lorenzo Macoritto battle for the first position. The three Italians competed for the overall victory until the last corner of the Extreme Test. In the end, Pietro Scardina prevailed, for a few seconds.

Pietro Scardina won the Youth class ahead of Luca Colorio and of French rider Marin Dagna.

Italian riders ruled Junior classes: another win for Riccardo Fabris in the Junior 1 class and Lorenzo Bernini won the Junior 2.

Double win for Andreas Beier too, who ruled Day 2 of the E1 after an amazing Saturday. Behind him Alessandro Di Gregorio and Aleksander Bracik.

In E2 Killian Irigoyen took first place after Alex Walton lost the first position due to a penalty.

Another win for Lorenzo Macoritto in E3 class, always ahead of David Abgrall.

Maurizio Micheluz won again the Senior 40 European Cup, again according to Nico Rambow as Riccardo Chiappa closes the podium.

The hard-fought women's class saw Vilde Marie Holt won ahead of German Tanja Schlosser and Joana Goncalves.

The 50 cc Trophy saw its champion being crowned at the end of the day: Yuri Lombardo was on the highest step of the podium, while Matteo Fersini second and Manuel Savi third.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 45

MATEJ SKUTA CLAIMED

DOUBLE OVERALL VICTORY IN PORTUGUESE ROUND

ROUND

13TH - 14TH MAY

The second round of the Enduro European Championship was hosted in Santa Marta de Penaguiao, Portugal.

Day 1

Matej Skuta topped in all the three special tests: after the missing victory in Fabriano, the Czechoslovak rider managed to end the day with the best time ever. Second step of the podium for the French rider Diego Haution, who managed to maintain a good pace in all the special tests. David Abgrall, former European Champion, managed to finish third overall despite a small crash in the second lap.

The Youth class was won by French rider Romain Dagna ahead of Luca Colorio and Davide Mei, who took the podium for the first time.

Third victory in a row for Riccardo Fabris in Junior 1, while the Polish rider Dawid Babicz was second and Nicola Paolucci third. In Junior 2 Matej Skuta got a second gold; Diego Haution was second and

Quentin Tournier third.

Third consecutive success for Andrea Beier: the German ruled the Enduro1 class and strengthened his leadership. Second position for Polish rider Aleksander Bracik, while Patrick Irmscher was third. Alex Walton took his first win in Enduro 2 ahead of Yann Dupic and championship leader Killian Irigoyen.

In the Enduro 3 class first win for David Abgrall; behind him the reigning champion Dietger Damiaens and Gabriel Chetnicki.

Third success in a row also for Maurizio Micheluz: the Italian rider won again the Senior class, this time ahead of the German Nico Rambow and André Decker. Vilde Marie Holt topped the Women Class, getting the second victory of the season.

ENDURO & RALLY > ENDURO EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
SANTA MARTA DE PENAGUIÃO, PORTUGAL #02
46

Day 2

Double win for Matej Skuta, who turned out to be the overall best rider. David Abgrall improved and finished second, while the young Romain Dagna finished third. Romain Dagna won again the Youth Class ahead of the Italian Luca Colorio.

Fourth win in a row for Riccardo Fabris in Junior 1, where Dawid Babicz and Nicolò Paolucci confirmed the second and third position. In the Junior 2 class another success for Matej Skuta.

Fourth victory in a row also for Andreas Beier: the German rider had another excellent performance which led him to finish again on the top of Enduro 1. Second position for Aleksander Bracik, while Patrick Irmscher was third.

Double success for Alex Walton too. The English rider triumphed again in the E2 class ahead of Yann Dupic and Killian Irigoyen.

The second overall position allowed David Abgrall to take his second win in the E3 class. European Champion Dietger Damiaens finished second while Roberto Da Canal third.

Fourth victory in a row also for Maurizio Micheluz in the Senior Class.

The Women class saw the hard-fought battle between Vilde Marie Holt and Tanja Schlosser: in the end the Norwegian won, while Joana Gongalves finished third.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 47

MOTOCROSS

THE FIRST EVENT GETS UNDER WAY IN SPAIN

ROUND 14TH- 16TH APRIL

BADAJOZ, SPAIN #02

Round one of the Bajas European Championship got under way together with the FIM Bajas World Cup, the Spanish National Championship and FIA European Cup for Cross-Country Bajas.

Three days event through magnificent Badajoz, Alconchel, Santa Marta, Cheles and Zahinos cities, surrounded by Gwadiana river, natural border between Portugal and Spain. The schedule saw Friday’s Prologue of 5,90 km along Gwadiana River, Saturday two Selective Section (SS) of 133 km and 201 km, Sunday two Selective Section (SS) of 79 km and 76 km. Total length of the race: 495 km of SS and additional 487 km.

Portuguese rider David Megre won ahead of Spanish Juan Jesús Sánchez and Freud González. Victory for Antoine Sanchez in the Quad category.

EMX OPEN ENDURO
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
& SNOWCROSS >
& RALLY > BAJAS
48

IN GREECE WITH THE HELLAS RALLY RAID

ROUND

22ND - 28TH MAY KARPENISSI, GREECE #01

Seven days of riding on the remote areas of Central Greece mountains from 20 to 28 May.

That was the Hellas Rally Raid 2023, valid as first round of the TT Rally European Cup. A unique experience in the remote Greek mountains, forests, valleys and more, with everyday route between 160-250 kilometres, 90% of them off-road. In the single bivouac the organizers provided tires, rider clothing and protections, medical first aid kit, mobile and GPS service and even more. After 7 days of racing Czech rider Milan Engel won the Overall classification ahead of the Austrian Tobias Ebster and Spanish Pol Tarres Roca. Engel ruled the M3 class too, while Tarres won the M6 class. Eduardo Iglesias Sanchez won the M1 class, Krzysztof Jarmuz the M4 class, Frederick Scheifler the M5 class.

ENDURO & RALLY > TOUT TERRAIN RALLY CUP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 49

FRENCH LÉO LAVESVRE WINS THE FIRST EDITION

The first edition ever of the Mini Enduro European Trophy took place in Grigno, Italy. Two intense days of racing with about 100 riders in the Park Fermè ready to fight for the titles.

Day1

The battle began from the very first test with the riders of the 125 class who took the lead of the Overall standings. In the first three laps Pierpaolo Mosca (KTM) took the best times winning all the tests, but Tommaso Roccato (Fantic) did not let himself be detached. With a delay of only 8 seconds Tommaso stayed close to his compatriot. During the day Mosca slowed down, while Roccato kept pushing and took the first overall position winning the day. Mosca finished second ahead of Léo Lavesvre (KTM): the French rider had a slow start but then he managed to finish third overall. The podium of the 125 Mini was the same as the overall standings: Roccato, Mosca and Lavesvre.

In the 50 Mini Cristian Garzotto (Vent) took the victory after collecting first positions. Second place for Massimo De Monte (Suzuki Valenti), while Mirco Zordan (Fantic) closed the podium.

In the Junior Class the Italian Gioele Scibilia (KTM) won with one minute over the runner-up Nicolò Baccinelli (KTM) and the Swedish Wiggo Lifvendahl (Husqvarna). If Gioele's victory was overwhelming, the gap between Nicolò and Wiggo was almost zero, only a few cents divided the two young riders.

The two Italian girls, Roberta Gallina (Husqvarna) and Athena Magliolo (Husqvarna) battled for the victory in the Women Class. At the end Roberta showed to be fast enough to take the first place. Third position for Charlène Boudon (GasGas), who did not keep the pace.

ENDURO & RALLY > MINI ENDURO TROPHY
50 ROUND 24TH- 25TH JUNE GRIGNO, ITALY #01

Day 2

The battle for the Overall saw France and Spain contending the final success. Léo Lavesvre and Pol Guerrero (KTM) fought all day long for the victory. If in the first part of the day the Spaniard collected the best times, at the end the French rider won with 8 seconds of advantage. Third position for day 1 overall winner Tommaso Roccato. As in Day 1, the overall top three was the same of the 125 class: Lavesvre, Guerrero and Roccato.

The 50 Mini class confirmed the riders of day 1: Massimo De Monte won again ahead of Garzotto and Zordan.

Double success for Gioele Scibilia, first ahead of Wiggo Lifvendahl, second, and Davide Cabass (Husqvarna), third.

Charlène Boudon won the Women class: after the third position on Day 1 the French rider managed to be faster than Athena Magliolo and Maja Kozlowska (Sherco).

At the end of the second day of race the champions were crowned. The Overall victory was a prerogative of the French Léo Lavesvre, who also took the 125 class title.

Cristian Garzotto won the 50 Mini, Gioele Scibilia the Junior and Charlène Boudon the Women.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 51

FINAL A FINAL B

1. Team Poland, 42 points

2. Team Sweden, 31 points

3. Team France, 24 points

4. Team Latvia, 23 points

1. Team Denmark, 49 points

2. Team Great Britain, 33 points

3. Team Czech Republic, 32 points

4. Team Ukraina, 6 points

TRACK RACING > EUROPEAN TEAM SPEEDWAY CHAMPIONSHIP
15TH APRIL GDAŃSK, POLAND
52
16TH APRIL PARDUBICE, CZECH REPUBLIC

FINAL QR

22ND APRIL STRALSUND, GERMANY

Sensational team Poland won the European Team Speedway Championship, claiming victory at the Grand Final at Stralsund in northern Germany.

The meeting was run on a well-prepared track in good weather conditions, even if a slight wind made the track hard to prepare.

In front of a huge crew of 3.000 spectators the Polish team started well and didn’t drop the victory till the end. With 49 points it claimed the gold medal ahead of the Denmark. Third position for Great Britain.

World Champion Bartosz Zmarzlik and Szymon Wozniak scored 13 points for the Polish Team together with Dominik Kubera (12 points) and Jaroslaw Hampel (11 points).

Individual European Champion, Mikkel Michelsen, took 12 points for team Denmark, showing some nice overtaking.

Daniel Bewley scored 11 points and put a major step towards the podium for the British team. Fourth position for Germany, at the start with Kai Huckenbeck, who scored 8 points and a win in his first heat against Zmarzlik. German Champion Norick Blödorn scored 6 points and had two second places.

Final classification

1. Poland, 49 points (Zmarzlik, Hampel, Wozniak, Kubera, Kowalski)

2. Denmark, 35 Points (Michelsen, Jakobsen, Jensen, Lyager, Breum)

3. Great Britain, 22 points (Bewley, Ellis, Brennan Worrall, Gilkes)

10TH JUNE LOPPERSUM, NETHERLANDS

Loppersum in the Netherlands was the venue for this Sidecar qualification round. 11 teams were prepared to battle for 6 spots in the final. Under very hot summer condition 2300 spectators saw very good and exciting action on the track. 12 qualification heats provided the line ups for the 3 finals. Manuel Meier with passenger Melanie Meier went directly to the final with 10 points. He was joined in the final by Markus Brandhofer and passenger Sandra Mollema, who also racked up 10 points. The B final provided the other 2 teams to the A final, Danish/German pair of Mike Frederiksen and passenger Desiree Holstein together with French pair Rémi Valladon and passenger Dylan Fourcade. A fierce heat ensued in the final with the German team Manuel Meier and passenger Melanie Meier coming out victorious. They were joined on the rostrum in 2nd by Mike Frederiksen and passenger Desiree Holstein, and Markus Brandhofer together with passenger Sandra Mollema taking 3rd place.

Overall top three

1. Manuel Meier / Melanie Meier, GER / GER

2. Mike Frederiksen / Desiree Holstein, DEN / GER

3. Markus Brandhofer / Sandra Mollema, GER / NED

TRACK
EUROPEAN
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 53
RACING >
SIDECAR CHAMPIONSHIP

QR 1 QR 2

25TH APRIL TERENZANO, ITALY

The 2023 Individual Speedway Euro Championship season got underway in Terenzano, Italy, with the QR1.

After one hour delay due to bad weather conditions, 17 riders from 11 European nations started the meeting with several close racing heats.

Polish rider Grzegorz Zengota won the meeting with 15 points ahead of Jan Kvech, from Czech Republic, for just one point at the end of heat 16.

Kvech was one of the most entertaining riders of the event with a couple of masterclass passes during heats 16 and 17. In the latter he finished ahead of local hero Nicolas Covatti at the finish line, after four thrilling laps.

Third position for German ace Martin Smolinski with a solid meeting which included a couple of wins and second places. Fourth and last place available to progress to the SEC challenge went to Danish rider Mads Hansen, who recorded three impressive wins including a fine overtaking over Smolinski in the last heat of meeting.

Top three

1. Grzegorz ZENGOTA, 15 points (POL)

2. Jan KVECH, 14 points (CZE)

3. Martin SMOLINSKI, 11 points (GER)

29TH APRIL MURECK, AUSTRIA

After six years the SEC was back in action in Mureck, Austria, for the QR2 of the series.

Timo Lahti scored 14 and won the fourth qualifying round. Unexpectedly, the second place went to another representative of Finland, Antti Vuolas. Haapajärvi born rider scored 13, and defeated much more experienced riders like Kai Huckenbeck. The third place was taken by Dimitri Berge, who won four races in a row, ended the meeting with 12 points. The last place which provides the promotion to SEC Challenge went to Michael Jepsen Jensen (12).

Top three

1. Timo Lahti, FIN, 14

2. Antti Vuolas, FIN, 13

3. Dimitri Berge, FRA, 12+3

4. Michael Jepsen Jensen, DEN, 12+2

TRACK RACING > INDIVIDUAL SPEEDWAY EURO CHAMPIONSHIP
54

Lots of surprising results happen in the meeting held in Debrecen, Hungary. Szymon Woźniak scored 13 and got a promotion from the first place. Other three places which guaranteed start in Nagyhalasz were taken by Andzejs Lebedevs, Jacob Thorssell and Niels Kristian Iversen. Each one of them scored 12 points.

Top three

1. Szymon Woźniak, POL, 13

2. Andzejs Lebedevs, LAT, 12+3

3. Jacob Thorssell, SWE, 12+2

4. Niels Kristian Iversen, DEN, 12+1

Anotnio Lindbaeck, Andreas Lyager, Kacper Woryna and Frederik Jakobsen secured spots in SEC Challenge, thanks to the great performances made in qualifying round in Daugavpils, Latvia. It was a fantastic evening for the silver medallist of SEC 2015, Lindbaeck, who scored 14 points, and lost only one point in the last heat of the meeting, in which he crossed the finish line behind Lyager. The Dane scored 13, and got promoted from second place. Woryna and Jakobsen scored 12 each.

Top three

1. Antonio Lindbaeck, SWE, 14

2. Andreas Lyager, DEN, 13

3. Kacper Woryna, POL, 12

4. Frederik Jakobsen, DEN, 12

QR 3 QR 4
01ST MAY DEBRECEN, HUNGARY 01ST MAY DAUGAVPILS - LATVIA TRACK RACING > INDIVIDUAL SPEEDWAY EURO CHAMPIONSHIP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 55

ECC

14TH MAY

NAGYHALÁSZ, HUNGARY

In Nagyhalasz, Hungary, we finally met the next five participants of the SEC - Individual Speedway Euro Championship. Dimitri Berge, Kacper Woryna, Jan Kvech, Grzegorz Zengota and Andreas Lyager advanced to the series and will fight for the title of Individual European Champion. The Frenchman sealed his promotion already in the fourth series, when he reached the finish line first for the fourth consecutive time and got 12 points. He recorded his first defeat only in race 19, in which he was third.

the series from the third place. It is worth to mention, that this year's final of the Individual European Championship will be held on September 22nd in Pardubice, and for now, Kvech is the only representative of the hosts. The 22-year-old will face the chance to perform in front of his crowd for the second time in a row. A year ago, during the TAURON SEC 2022 final, the SGP 2 silver medallist performed very successfully and finished eighth. After the main phase of racing in Nagyhalasz, five riders had nine points each. They were Andreas Lyager, Antonio Lindbaeck, Szymon Wozniak, Niels Kristian Iversen and Mads Hansen. To decide who would take the fifth place - the last spot which provide a promotion, we had a four-race tournament, in which Lyager was the best. The Dane reached two additional victories and he got promoted to the TAURON Speedway Euro Championship 2023.

Promotion to the TAURON SEC series was won by two representatives of PolandKacper Woryna and Grzegorz Zengota. Both scored 10 points each, and their promotion means that we will see at least five Poles in the fight for the title of Individual European Champion. In addition to Woryna and Zengota, Janusz Kolodziej, Patryk Dudek and Dominik Kubera will also take part in TAURON SEC.

Jan Kvech will leave Nagyhalasz extremely satisfied. The Czech collected 10 points, which ensured his promotion to

TRACK RACING > INDIVIDUAL SPEEDWAY EURO CHAMPIONSHIP
56

FINAL 1

CZĘSTOCHOWA, POLAND

Final1 of the SEC – Speedway European Championship, took place on June 17th in Częstochowa, Poland.

The start of the competition was not easy for the current European Champion Leon Madsen. However, after an unsuccessful first race where he finished in third position, he found his rhythm. Alongside his compatriot, Mikkel Michelsen, he led the classification after the heat stages, accumulating thirteen points.

The Częstochowa track allowed for intense battles right from the first race. Adam Ellis proved this by securing three points in the opening race with a successful outside attack. Unfortunately for the Englishman, his subsequent performances were only worse. On a positive note, Niels Kristian Iversen impressed the gathered fans. The Danish rider, who competed in Częstochowa as a replacement for the injured Grzegorz Zengota, made the most of the opportunity given to him by fate. He finished in a high sixth place in his second-ever appearance in the SEC series. The same can be said for the other reserve rider, Szymon Woźniak. From the very beginning, he displayed speed over the distance, allowing him to join the fight for victory.

Dimitri Berge can confidently be called the "dark horse" of the first round of TAURON SEC 2023. In his five heats in the heat stages, the Frenchman finished second in each one. Consistent performance earned him a spot in the runoff.

In the final race for victory in the inaugural round, Leon Madsen, Mikkel Michelsen, Kacper Woryna, and Szymon Woźniak fought. The defending champion emerged triumphant. The second-place on the podium was taken by the second Danish rider, with Szymon Woźniak crossing the finish line in third.

Top three

1. Leon Madsen, DEN, 13 points

2. Mikkel Michelsen, DEN, 13 points

3. Szymon Woźniak, POL, 11 points

JUNE
17TH
TRACK RACING > INDIVIDUAL SPEEDWAY EURO CHAMPIONSHIP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 57

QR 1 SEMIFINAL 1

18TH MAY STRALSUND, GERMANY

The Qualifying round of the European Under23 Team Speedway Championship took place in Stralsund, Germany. The city is located at the southern coast of the Strelasund, a sound of the Baltic Sea separating the island of Rügen from the Pomeranian mainland.

In a sunny day Teams from the Czech Republic, Great Britain, Sweden and Germany fought to qualify for the Final. In the end, the tournament was won by the Swedish team, which beat the Czech team by 9 points. Third place went to the UK team.

Jan Kvech (Czech Republic) was the best rider of the day with 13 points. Casper Henriksson was awarded the mayor's prize for his victory in the final race, in which the top competitors competed.

Final results

1. Sweden, 38 points

2. Czech Republic, 29 points

3. Great Britain, 28 points

4. Germany, 25 points

TRACK RACING > EUROPEAN UNDER 19 INDIVIDUAL SPEEDWAY CHAMPIONSHIP

10TH JUNE ELGANE, NORWAY

The meeting was run on a beautiful track situated in Norwegian city of Elgane.

The fans watched the future stars of speedway fiercely fighting for promotion to the Under 19 Individual Speedway Championship Final which will take place on August 19 in Gorzow Wielkopolski, Poland. Riders competed for eight places awarded with promotion to the finals.

Local fans could enjoy the victory of the Norwegian Mathias Pollestad, who won in front of his crowd.

Overall top three

1. Mathias Pollestad, NOR

2. Damian Ratajczak, POL

3. William Drejer, DEN

58
TRACK RACING > EUROPEAN UNDER23 TEAM SPEEDWAY CHAMPIONSHIP

SEMIFINAL 1

04TH JUNE

BIELEFELD, GERMANY

SEMIFINAL 2

01ST JULY TAYAC, FRANCE

DMSC Bielefeld have been hosting Grass Track events for 50 years and staging successful FIM and FIM Europe Championship events at the Leineweberring, a big 700 metre Grass Track Circuit, in Bielefeld, in the north of Germany. The first being in 1985, with the UEM Semi Final event.

The starting line-up consisted of 18 riders from 7 nations (Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Great Britain, Netherlands, and Germany), with the top 9 riders qualifying through to the European Final, which will take place at Werlte, Germany, on 22nd July.

The highlight of the day was the last race (the A Final), in which English rider Chris Harris, swopped places with “Flying Dutchman” Romano Hummel during the last two laps with Harris, just beating Hummel over the finish line by half a wheel.

Top three

1. Chris Harris, GBR

2. Romano Hummel, NED

3. Jannick de Jong, NED

Semi Final 2 of the European Individual Grass Track Championship in Tayac, France, for a race in dry perfect conditions after the rain of the morning.

At the end of a very close race, the British Andrew Appelton won ahead of French riders Mathias Tressarieu and Lordan Dubernard.

The Final is scheduled on July 22nd in Werlte, Germany.

Top three

1. Andrew Appelton, GBR

2. Mathias Tressarieu, FRA

3. Lordan Dubernard, FRA

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 59
TRACK
INDIVIDUAL
RACING > EUROPEAN
GRASS TRACK CHAMPIONSHIP

FINAL 1

02ND JULY KRSKO, SLOVENIA

The first round of the 250cc Pairs Speedway Championship was raced in Krsko, Slovenia, on Sunday 2nd July n perfect weather conditions as the original date of 1st July was postponed because of the heavy rain.

8 national pairs and two mixed teams divided into two groups battled for the top three places of their groups to secure places in Finals C, B and A.

In a thrilling day with exciting battles, the young up and coming riders showed great skills and teams qualified into finals C, B and A, that were not decided until the last races in their groups.

At the end team Poland win ahead Denmark and Sweeden.

Top three

1. Poland

2. Denmark

3. Sweeden

TRACK
> EUROPEAN 250CC
SPEEDWAY CHAMPIONSHIP 60
RACING
PAIRS

QR 1

10TH JUNE LOPPERSUM, NETHERLANDS

Loppersum in the Netherlands was the venue for this Sidecar qualification round. 11 teams were prepared to battle for 6 spots in the final. Under very hot summer condition 2300 spectators saw very good and exciting action on the track. 12 qualification heats provided the line ups for the 3 finals. Manuel Meier with passenger Melanie Meier went directly to the final with 10 points. He was joined in the final by Markus Brandhofer and passenger Sandra Mollema, who also racked up 10 points.

The B final provided the other 2 teams to the A final, Danish/German pair of Mike Frederiksen and passenger Desiree Holstein together with French pair Rémi Valladon and passenger Dylan Fourcade.

A fierce heat ensued in the final with the German team Manuel Meier and passenger Melanie Meier coming out victorious. They were joined on the rostrum in 2nd by Mike Frederiksen and passenger Desiree Holstein, and Markus Brandhofer together with passenger Sandra Mollema taking 3rd place.

Overall top three

1. Manuel Meier / Melanie Meier, GER / GER

2. Mike Frederiksen / Desiree Holstein, DEN / GER

3. Markus Brandhofer / Sandra Mollema, GER / NED

TRACK RACING > EUROPEAN SIDECAR CHAMPIONSHIP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 61

THE SEASON STARTS IN SPAIN

ROUND

The European Handy Bridgestone Cup raced the first round of the season in perfect conditions in the sunny Angel Nieto Circuit at Jerez de la Frontera, Spain.

Race 1 took place on Saturday afternoon in sunny and warm weather conditions. During the first laps Italian riders Lorenzo Picasso, Emiliano Malagoli and Ivo Arnoldi fired up a very close battle for the first position in class 1000. At the end of ten laps of challenges, Picasso took the win ahead of Malagoli and Jacopo Gullà. Arnoldi was first in Lesser Impaired category.

Italian domination in class 600 too, with Maximilian Sontacchi first, Iacopo Gardiol second and Vito Pisanello third. Spanish rider Antonio Montoya won Lesser Impaired category.

Race 2 kicked off on Sunday morning. As in Race 1, in class 1000 Picasso, Malagoli and Arnoldi engaged an epic battle for the victory. Picasso and Malagoli had a very close finish and Picasso won for just 53 thousandths of a second. Third position for Gullà. Another win for Arnoldi in Lesser Impaired

Same story in class 600, with Sontacchi who replicated the great performance of Race 1 by winning Race 2. Second position for Pisanello. Unlucky day for Gardiol, who was forced to the withdraw due to a technical problem. Another win for Montoya in Lesser Impaired category.

MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN ROAD RACING > EUROPEAN HANDY BRIDGESTONE CUP 62
01ST - 02ND APRIL JEREZ
DE LA FRONTERA, SPAIN #01

VALLELUNGA CIRCUIT HOSTS THE SECOND ROUND

Second round of the European Handy Bridgestone Cup. A thrilling race weekend at the Vallelunga Circuit in Italy in tough weather conditions on Saturday.

Race 1 took place in pouring rain, with six riders who crashed fortunately without consequences. It was a race full of emotions thanks to the duel between Lorenzo Picasso and Alex Innocenti, fighting for victory. The challenge ended three corners to the end with Innocenti’s crash after leading three quarters of the race. Excellent performances in the wet for Max Sontacchi, who started seventh, and Cristiano Corrado Caruso, twelfth on the grid: they finished second and third overall.

Dry race on Sunday, with many overtaking and the thrilling duel between Emiliano Malagoli, Ivo Arnoldi and Picasso up to the middle of the race, when Picasso managed to pull away from his rivals and finish first under the chequered flag. In the 600 cc class, excellent performances by Spanish rider Antonio Montoya and Austrian Jakob Lorenz, very fast in their debut in Italy

ROAD RACING > EUROPEAN HANDY BRIDGESTONE CUP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 63 ROUND 12TH - 14TH MAY VALLELUNGA, ITALY #02

PLENTY OF DRAMA AS THE CHAMPIONSHIP ENJOYS FIRST RACES

APRIL ASSEN, NETHERLANDS

The TT Circuit Assen played host to the first round of the 2023 Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Championship, and two exciting and dramatic races were put on by the 19 young riders contesting the event. Italy’s Emiliano Ercolani was the winner of Race 1, and Race 2’s victor was Brazil’s Gustavo Manso during the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship’s Pirelli Dutch Round.

Sunny skies and pleasant temperatures greeted the R3 paddock on Saturday morning for the opening race and the riders prepared for battle at the technical Dutch track.

Bad luck hit Colombia’s Jeronimo Gonzalez when he went down on the warm-up lap and was unable to start, and Brazil’s Gustavo Manso was also forced to miss the first race due to extended medical checks following a crash on Friday. The rest of the field got away cleanly as the lights went out and it was pole-sitter Aldi Satya Mahendra who made the initial break away, with a group of five riders chasing closely behind him. Once the pack closed up further, no fewer than four riders had a go at leading. But it was Italy’s Emiliano Ercolani, last year’s SuperFinale winner, who consistently made his way back to the front, he stayed calm and smooth to take the first victory of the season by just 0.039 seconds. Spain’s Marc Vich finished second, and Brazil’s Kevin Fontainha took third.

The start of the second race was tense as clouds closed in and light rain fell around the circuit, an initial race start was quickly red flagged as the precipitation increased. At the

restart, Mahendra once again got the best launch, but a huge group of riders were fighting it out for top spot – providing some thrilling action for the watching crowds. Several changes of the lead were carried out over the 10-lap race, with Brazil’s riders looking increasingly strong. Thailand’s Krittapat Keankum crossed the line in first position but was later demoted to seventh due to a track limits penalty. The win eventually went to Manso, with his compatriots Eduardo Burr and Fontainha in second and third.

ROAD RACING > YAMAHA BLU CRU EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND
#01
22ND
64

ERCOLANI AND MANSO COME OUT ON TOP IN CATALUNYA’S FRANTIC RACES

In the second round of the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup Italy’s Emiliano Ercolani increased his title lead with another masterful victory in Race 1 at the Circuit of Barcelona-Catalunya, while Brazil’s Gustavo Manso finally took to the top step in Race 2.

The first race of the day saw more incredible racing among the youngest riders in the paddock as the R3 bLU cRU European Championship competitors vied for the podium places. Mallorca’s Marc Vich took the early lead, but he was quickly passed by a determined Aldi Satya Mahendra before the pair were joined by Brazilian battlers Manso and Kevin Fontainha. At times the riders were seven abreast in the clean but thrilling charge to the top step. Just as in Assen two weeks ago, Italy’s Ercolani kept his cool and returned to the front of the field time and time again. At the chequered flag he grabbed the victory by just 0.025

ahead of Mahendra. R3 debutant, Dorian Joulin, impressed with third place. The Frenchman missed the opening round of the season recovering from appendicitis. Expectations ran high for another dose of amazing action in Race 2, and the crowd weren’t disappointed. It was Mahendra who made the initial break at the front, with three riders in tow. But just a few laps into the race the pack closed up to include almost the entire field of 20 riders – with most of them having a go at leading in the ever-changing race. It was Manso who consistently found his way to the front, and it paid off for the young Brazilian when he took the win by just 0.015 seconds. An increasingly consistent Ercolani managed 2nd place, and Manso’s compatriot Fontainha took the final step on the podium.

ROUND 06TH MAY BARCELONA-CATALUNYA, SPAIN #02
ROAD RACING > YAMAHA BLU CRU EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 65

ERCOLANI AND MAHENDRA MAKE IT HAPPEN IN ITALY WITH A VICTORY EACH

Thrilling weekend for the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Cup. Italy’s Emiliano Ercolani took a spectacular victory in Race 1 on home race at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, while Aldi Satya Mahendra took a first ever win for Indonesia in the R3 bLU cRU European Championship in a thrilling Race 2.

Race 1 saw Mahendra take the holeshot, leading the field of 21 riders into the first corners of the Italian circuit. Before the race could settle into a rhythm there was a dramatic crash between Mert Konuk, Christian Stringhetti and Apostolos Kamzelis. All three riders emerged uninjured but Konuk would have to serve a double long lap penalty in Race 2 for his part in the incident. After this the riders broke into two groups, but the

action remained intense. Mahendra and Ercolani swopped places countless times, but they also had to watch out for the advances of Krittapat Keankum, pole-sitter Kevin Fontainha and Marc Vich. With the home crowd on his side, Ercolani displayed his usual impressive determination to keep returning to the head of the pack. The Italian finished victorious in front of his adoring fan club, increasing his title lead in the process. Keankum took second, and Mahendra third.

Saturday afternoon brought scorching track temperatures, providing perfect grip for the 10-lap dash of Race 2. Mahendra shot to the front once again, but he found himself heading an enormous lead group of 12 riders for the entire race. More than five riders had a go at hitting

the front as the freight train spread across the track. Brazil’s Gustavo Manzo was ready to take the fight to Mahendra, but the huge battle culminated in the Indonesian holding firm and becoming the first rider from his country to win in R3, following in the footsteps of his brother, Galang Hendra Pratama who is a double winner in the WorldSSP300 class. Vich, fresh from his experience at the Master Camp displayed impressive skills to finish second, while Ercolani got a solid third. Brazilian star Eduardo Burr was unlucky to suffer a mechanical issue which ruled him out of contention in the second race. Greek wildcard rider Kamzelis unfortunately crashed out of both races.

ROAD RACING > YAMAHA BLU CRU EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 03RD JUNE MISANO, ITALY #03
66

VICH VICTORIOUS IN RACE 1, MAHENDRA BATTLES ADVERSITY FOR RACE 2 WIN

It was a dramatic day of action in the Yamaha bLU cRU European Championship at Donington Park, Great Britain.

The fourth round of the Yamaha R3 bLU cRU European Championship saw Spain’s Marc Vich take an impressive victory in an exciting Race 1, while Indonesia’s Aldi Mahendra battled back after disappointment and penalties for a strong Race 2 win.

Race1

Pole-sitter Kevin Fontainha took the ‘holeshot’ but title-leader Emiliano Ercolani quickly closed him down and proceeded to give chase. The leading group of five was fractured in the early stages of the race when Mahendra had an incident with Dorian Joulin which saw both competitors exit the race. The three Brazilian riders: Fontainha, Gustavo Manso, and Eduardo Burr were

looking extremely strong as the newly-formed pack started to settle into a race rhythm, but Ercolani and Vich were keen to keep them in their sights. With five laps to go there was a break-away group at the front, but with the determination and pace of the chasing riders it was once again a group of 10 before the final three laps. The closing moments of the race were intense when another incident happened between championship leader Ercolani and Krittapat Keankum, with both riders left in the gravel, although they were able to rejoin - finishing 12th and 17th respectively. Vich kept his cool and stayed out of trouble to take a superb victory – his first of the season. Fontainha and Manso completed the Top 3. Race2

No less dramatic than the first, with Mahendra cleared fit to ride but having to serve a double long lap

penalty for his part in the Race 1 crash. Manso was the quickest off the line but there was no chance to make a break with little to split the entire field and plenty of chopping and changing in the running order. Italy’s Christian Stringhetti suffered a high side at Turn 11 at the mid-way point of the race which Vich and Valentin Arnaud were unable to avoid. All riders walked away from the incident, and Arnaud was able to rejoin the running. The action continued to the chequered flag, and it was Mahendra who proved strongest despite his penalty; the Indonesian took his second win of the season. Ercolani recouped from his Race 1 crash to take second, and Fontainha crossed the line third, but was later demoted, moving Manso into the position.

ROUND 01ST JULY DONINGTON PARK, GBR #04
YAMAHA BLU CRU EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
ROAD RACING >
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 67

LEVIN PHOMMARA CLAIMS A DOUBLE WIN AT THE CATHEDRAL OF SPEED

The TT Assen was the perfect venue for the first seasonal race of the Northern Talent Cup, racing the opening round with the Superbike World Championship.

Race 1

1. Levin Phommara SUI

2. Jurrien Van Crugten NED

3. Lennox Phommara SUI

Race 2

1. Lenoxx Phommara SUI

2. Loris Caspar Sessler GER

3. Martin Vincze HUN

ROAD RACING > NORTHERN TALENT CUP 68 ROUND 21ST-23RD
APRIL ASSEN, NETHERLANDS #01

SESSLER AND PHOMMARA VICTORIOUS IN SANCHSENRING

Northern Talent Cup: Sessler and Phommara victorious in Sanchsenring

The Northern Talent Cup was back in action last weekend for the second round of the season at Sachsenring, Germany.

Race 1

1. Rocco Sessler DEU

2. Julius Ahrenkiel-Frellsen DNK

3. Matteo Masili ITA

Race 2

1. Lenoxx Phommara SUI

2. Rocco Sessler GER

Julius Ahrenkiel-Frellsen DNK

ROAD RACING > NORTHERN TALENT CUP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 69 ROUND 12TH-14TH MAY SACHSENRING, GERMANY #02
3.

A VICTORY EACH FOR SESSLER AND PHOMMARA IN OSCHERSLEBEN

Imperious Sessler vanquishes rivals in stunning victory in Race 1 in Oschersleben. Classy ride from the German sees him finish an impressive 2.5 seconds ahead of Frellsen and Lenoxx Phommara.

Race 1

1. Rocco SESSLER DEU

2. Julius AHRENKIEL-FRELLSEN DNK

3. Lenoxx PHOMMARA CHE

Race 2

1. Lenoxx PHOMMARA CHE

2. Rocco SESSLER DNK

3. Julius AHRENKIEL-FRELLSEN DNK

ROAD RACING > NORTHERN TALENT CUP ROUND 02ND-04TH JUNE OSCHERSLEBEN, GERMANY #03
70

VINCZE WINS HIS FIRST RACE AND SASSLER IS BACK TO WIN

A last lap, last corner pass Lenoxxon Phommara sees the Hungarian win his first NTC race as Sessler crashes out of the lead in Germany.

The title chase picture swings back into the German’s favour after a dramatic Race 2 at the Sachsenring

Race 1 1. Martin VINCZE HUN 2. Lenoxx PHOMMARA SWI 3. Antoine NATIVI FRA Race 2 1. Rocco SESSLER GER 2. Kyano SCHOO NED
ROAD RACING > NORTHERN TALENT CUP
3. Julius FRELLSEN DEN
SACHSENRING, GERMANY
ROUND 16TH-18TH JUNE
#04
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 71

IMPERIOUS FRELLSEN CLAIMS STUNNING MAIDEN VICTORY

Imperious Sessler vanquishes rivals in stunning victory in Race 1 in Oschersleben.

Classy ride from the German sees him finish an impressive 2.5 seconds ahead of Frellsen and Lenoxx Phommara.

Race 1

1. Julius Ahrenkiel-Frellsen DNK

2. Rocco Sessler DEU

3. Lenoxx PHOMMARA CHE

Race 2

1. Julius Ahrenkiel-Frellsen DNK

2. Martin Vincze HUN

3. Lenoxx Phommara CHE

ROAD RACING > NORTHERN TALENT CUP ROUND 23RD-25TH JUNE MOST, CZECH REPUBLIC
#05
72
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 73

ITALY CROWNS 2023 CHAMPIONS

#01

ROUND

The Mini Road Racing European Championship was back in action for a weekend full of excitement.

If the 2022 edition was hosted by the “Cathedral of Speed”, the TT Assen in The Netherlands, this year the event took place at Circuito Internazionale D’Abruzzo, in Italy. The Championship aims to create opportunities for young riders to demonstrate their qualities. The Mini Road Racing is a fundamental step for the future motorcycling stars: it is a great platform for up-andcoming young road racers to hone their craft.

In Italy, riders from five different nations were in action and fought until the last lap for the European titles.

05TH-07TH MAY

Junior A:

1. Ethan Botti, ITA

2. Oliver Tagliati, ITA

3. Marco Rizzi, ITA

Junior B:

1. Alessandro Souchet, ITA

2. Filippo Amico, ITA

3. Sebastiano Dossena, ITA

Junior C:

1. Alessandro Lora, ITA

2. Christian Marinello, ITA

3. Bartolomeo Roberto, ITA

Open 50:

1. Luca Da Dalt, ITA

2. Luca Bandini, ITA

3. Vincenzo Di Veroli, ITA

ORTONA, ITALY

Ohvale Mini Bike 110:

1. Mattia Gabrielli, ITA

2. Viktor Cech, CZE

3. Simon Kucerik, CZE

Ohvale Mini Bike 160:

1. Luca Rizzi, ITA

2. Luca Turato, ITA

3. Carmelo Greco, ITA

Ohvale Mini Bike 190:

1. Edoardo Savino, ITA

2. Gabriel Fabio Vuono, ITA

3. Kevin Cancellieri, ITA

ROAD RACING > MINI ROAD RACING EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
74

FIM EUROPE AND PMT TYRES EXTEND PARTNERSHIP

FIM Europe is delighted to announce that PMT will continue the partnership as official tyre supplier of the Mini Road Racing European Championship.

After last year’s success at TT Assen, the 2023 season is really promising and everything is set for the new challenge in Ortona, Italy.

Long-standing partner of the FIM Europe, PMT will continue to supply tyres with the same determination and passion, offering performing product and services to the riders.

MICHAL SIKORA

“It’s with a great honour and excitement that we announce the extended partnership. PMT is a prestigious brand and it will fit perfectly with the spirit of the FIM Europe. Mini Road Racing is a very important discipline for our future champions and needs strong, reliable and iconic tyre to be associated with. This is exactly what PMT is. We feel very proud to continue this journey together, benefitting from its experience. I’m sure FIM Europe and PMT can grow together. I would like to thank Laura Pauselli that made this project to happen”.

LAURA PAUSELLI

“It’s a pleasure to collaborate with the FIM Europe and the Italian Motorcycling Federation to discover and follow young talents. The Mini Road Racing European Championship has seen the birth of many champions who are currently competing in MotoGP and for us it’s a source of great pride to have contributed to their growth. We hope that 2023 season will bring us much satisfaction, hoping the future European champions can follow the footsteps of their idols and achieve their dreams of success”.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 75
PMT Owner FIM Europe President

2023 SEASON KICKS OFF IN ESTORIL

The 2023 Moto2 European Championship, European Talent Cup and Stock European Championship kicked off in style over the weekend at the Estoril Circuit.

Daniel Muñoz (SP57 Racing Team) took the win in the new era for the Stock European Championship. There was Portuguese perfection for two riders, as Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP) and Brian Uriarte (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) had double delight in Moto2™ European Championship and the European Talent Cup, winning both Race 1 and 2.

Moto2

In the vit was a different story as the hot favourite for title honours in 2023 lived up the billing. All eyes were on Senna Agius as he launched from pole position and in Race 1, he bolted. Having got the perfect start from the line, the 17-year-old Australian had to do it all again due to a red flag after a Martin Vugrinec (Fifty Motorsport) crash – rider ok. Not to be perturbed, Agius pulled the pin to come home seven seconds ahead of Carlos Tatay (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) and compatriot Harrison Voight (Yamaha Philippines Stylobike Racing Team) – both of whom are class rookies. Despite celebrating a podium together in Race 1, sterner words were exchanged later in the afternoon during Race 2 as Voight and Tatay crashed out of the podium places, with the Australian pointing the finger of blame firmly at the #99. That incident didn’t bother Agius, as he romped home towards a second win of the day to claim the maximum 50 points on offer in Estoril. His winning margin wasn’t quite as emphatic as before, but he still had more than four seconds to spare over Xavi Cardelus (Promoracing) as the Andorran opened his account for the season, as did Niccolo Antonelli (MMR), with the Italian coming home third.

ROUND 07TH MAY ESTORIL, PORTUGAL #01
ROAD RACING > FIM JUNIORGP 76

ETC

The European Talent Cup were the first class out on track on the west of the Iberian Peninsula, and they warmed up the day’s action with a showstopper. Brian Uriarte, Rico Salmela (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) and Hakim Danish (Monlau Motul) formed a breakaway trio out front and entered wheel-to-wheel combat over 15 laps. Victory wasn’t decided until the three riders took the chequered flag within 0.054s of one another, with Uriarte first ahead of Salmela and Danish completing the podium.

Much like Moto2, the ETC saw a double winner, with Uriarte going backto-back, with an even closer finish in Race 2. The young Spaniard pinched the win off of 2021 ETC Champion Maximo Quiles on the line with only 0.006s between them. Quiles, who finished fourth in Race 1 after starting at the back of the grid and going through the LLP loop, will be gutted to have missed out but still goes home with a P2 result, while David Gonzalez (Cuna de Campeones) capped an impressive run with a maiden podium in the class.

Stock

Ending the day’s action was the solo Stock race, with the class now a different race to the Moto2™ category. Dani Muñoz carved out his own little piece of history as the maiden race winner, with the opportunity handed to him on a plate as poleman Eric Fernandez (FAU55 TEY Racing) crashed just three laps in. That gave Muñoz a country acre of space in P1 while Marco Garcia (EasyRace Team) and Alex Millan (Fifty Motorsport) battled for second place. In the end, it was Garcia who put in a classy ride to take the second step on the box, with Millan beginning his campaign with a third placed finish.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 77

STUNNING SECOND ROUND IN VALENCIA

Moto2

With just one race on the billing for the Moto2™ ECh, Senna Agius never looked threatened as he once again swept the field away to take a fine victory, his third of the season. In second place after a strong ride and resisting a late challenge from behind, it was a career-best result for Italian star Mattia Rato (AGR Team), who returned his team to the podium and likewise moved up in the Championship standings to second. Completing the podium after a scary start, where he got away

much slower than his rivals, Carlos Tatay (Pertamina SAG Racing Team) fought back to finish third, denying Roberto Garcia what would have been a first podium in the category. Elsewhere, Harrison Voight’s (Yamaha Philippines Stylobike Racing Team) front row start wasn’t converted as he had a Long Lap Penalty to serve, then outbraked himself at Turn 8 before crashing out all together at Turn 6; he was thankfully OK. Agius remains the Championship leader with a perfect 75 points achieved.

ROUND 21ST MAY VALENCIA,
SPAIN #02
ROAD RACING > FIM JUNIORGP 78
It was a stunning second round of the Moto2 European Championship, European Talent Cup and Stock European Championship at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia, Spain.

ETC

The ETC races were absolutely electric; in Race 1, one of the greatest comebacks through the field that we’ve ever seen was accomplished, as Maximo Quiles – who was scheduled to start from pole – had to go from 25th on the grid on row nine due to riding slowly in all sectors during qualifying; he also had a Long Lap Penalty to serve. In the early laps, defending title winner Guido Pini (AC Racing Team), Alberto Ferrandez (Finetwork Mir Racing Team), standings leader Brian Uriarte (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) and Dodo Boggio (Aspar Junior Team) to name all but a few, battled it out in classic ETC fashion, but before half-race distance, it was Quiles who came on through and hit the front at Turn 1, before clearing off into the distance for a stunning first win of 2023. Casey O’Gorman (VisionTrack Racing Team) was in the mix behind, along with Jesus Rios (MRE Talent), but the latter crashed with Ferrandez and O’Gorman at the final corner on the last lap. Pini took second, whilst Rico Salmela (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) came through for P3. Quiles’ win from P25 sets a new record for a win from the lowest grid slot, a record that stood since Matteo Patacca won from P17 in Valencia, 2018.

O’Gorman was out injured in Race 2 as his luckless start to 2023 season continued; going from pole and grabbing the holeshot on his way to a dominant double, Quiles was unrivalled at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit as he made it two wins, with three podiums from the first four races of 2023. The battle was fierce behind though and it was once again a final lap showdown. After looking for P2, Pini had to serve a Long Lap Penalty in the closing stages for exceeding track limits, which saw Uriarte and Ferrandez capitalise to complete the podium. Dodo Boggio (Aspar Junior Team) took fourth, but the day belonged to Quiles, who is the standings leader leaving Valencia by five points over Uriarte.

Stock Concluding the day of action, the Stock™ class. However, there was a red flag on Lap 2 after Daniel Brooks’ (Yamaha GV Stratos) bike expired, leaving his teammate Mihail Florov and Eric Fernandez (FAU55 TEY Racing) on the floor. After a delay as the track was cleared up, a new 12-lap race distance was set and it was a tense stand-off from Estoril winner and polesitter Daniel Muñoz and Fernandez, who remounted his

bike and made the restart. Fernandez was quicker in the second half of the lap but it was a strong first half of the lap that gave Muñoz a crucial advantage in the overtaking hotspots, limiting his vulnerability to attack from behind to hold for a second win of the year. Fernandez took second, whilst Dino Iozzo (IUM Motorsports) was a strong third. Muñoz is unbeaten in 2023, thus remains the Championship leader.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 79

THIRD ROUND AT JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA

The iconic Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto played host to Round 3 of the Moto2 European Championship, European Talent Cup and Stock European Championship.

Carlos Tatay (Pertamina Mandalika SAG team) converted great speed into victory in the Moto2™ European Championship, while championship rivals Max Quiles (Aspar Junior Team) and Brian Uriarte (Team Estrella Galica 0,0) took the spoils in both European Talent Cup races. While in the Stock European Championship Eric Fernandez (FAU55 TEY Racing) pulled out a stunning lastlap pass for the win.

Moto2

For the first time in 2023 Moto2™ European Championship, Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact Junior Team) wasn’t the favourite entering the race, that honour went to Carlos Tatay. Topping every session, the Moto2™ rookie started from a career first pole position, he lost out at the start to Yeray Ruiz (FAU55 TEY Racing) and the fast-starting Senna Agius but it wasn’t long before the #99 found his way to the front. Once the Spaniard hit the front he cleared off into the sunset, leaving Agius and Ruiz to content the rest of the podium positions. The Australian had attempts at passing the #72 but when he did, Ruiz would strike right back, eventually holding off the championship leader for 2nd and a career-first podium. However, no one could stop Carlos Tatay as the Spaniard romped to a maiden win and he’ll be hoping to do the same in Portimao in four weeks’ time.

ROUND 04TH JUNE JEREZ, SPAIN #03
ROAD RACING > FIM JUNIORGP 80

ETC

ETC Race 2 saw one of the greatest final laps in the class’ history. The race started with a group of around 12 at the front but that was soon whittled down to just five at the front heading into the final lap. Hakim Danish (Team Estrella Galicia 0,0) made a brave move down the inside at Turn 6 but just couldn’t hang on and unfortunately crashed out. What followed was quite possibly two of the greatest moves ever seen in the ETC by Uriarte. Into Turn 8 he picked off both Quiles and Boggio before then going around the outside of Pini at the final corner and holding him off to the line by just 0.021 of a second. Quiles completed the podium just over half a tenth behind and still leads the championship but now just by one point from Uriarte.

Stock

In the Stock ECh race the tale of the race was expected for most of its length. Daniel Muñoz (SP57 Racing Team) has been the dominant force in Stock ECh in 2023 and from the off he was leading here in Jerez. Fernandez, who has shown great potential so far was close behind. Impressively, Fernandez was able to go with and keep the pressure on Muñoz in the closing laps when Muñoz started to up the pace. That persistent pressure was rewarded as Muñoz made a mistake through Turn 7 on the final lap. Fernandez pounced at the next corner but Muñoz but back heading into the final turn. Fernandez saw it coming and cut back underneath for his first victory of the 2023 season. Further behind, Dino Iozzo (IUM Motorsports) had a quiet but rewarding race as he picked up his second podium on the bounce. Muñoz remains the championship leader, but new winner Fernandez now lurks 25 points behind.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 81

FOURTH ROUND AT AUTÓDROMO INTERNACIONAL DO ALGARVE

The series was back in action at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, Portugal, playing host to Round 4 of the season. Perfect weekend for Senna Agius (Liqui Moly Husqvarna Intact GP Junior Team) who did the double in the Moto2™ European Championship. Dodo Boggio (Aspar Junior Team) and Daniel Muñoz (SP57 Racing Team) clocked memorable victories in the south of Portugal, as they stood on the top step in the European Talent Cup and Stock European Championship races respectively.

Moto2 European Championship

In the opening race, Senna Agius bounced back from his Jerez blip in style, taking a comfortable win in Portimao with an 11.788s advantage, extending the Australian’s lead atop

the standing. Alberto Surra (Team Ciatti - Boscoscuro) conquered the Long Lap penalty loop to claim a maiden podium of the campaign in P2, holding off a hard charging Xavi Cardelus (Promoracing) on the line with the Andorran securing his second podium of the year.

There was also major disappointment for title contender Carlos Tatay (Pertamina Mandalika SAG Team) who crashed out of the contest in the opening stages, and after a visit to the medical centre, he was ruled out of Race 2.

That left the door open for Agius to extend his title advantage, something which he did emphatically with the young Australian having the perfect day in Portimao and doing the double. Xavi Cardelus went one better in the afternoon for his second rostrum of the day, co-

ROAD RACING > FIM JUNIORGP 82 ROUND 02ND JULY ALGARVE, PORTUGAL #04

ming home in second while Roberto Garcia (Cardoso – Fantic Racing) debuted on the box in the south of Portugal.

European Talent Cup

Portimao held just one race on Sunday, but there was more than enough drama to keep fans happy. Dodo Boggio took the win in sensational fashion, profiting from Aspar teammate Maximo Quiles’ last lap crash to steal the win on the final corner. Having experienced a barren podium run in 2023 to date, including for P4 finishes in a row, the Italian was back on the top step, while Casey O’Gorman (SuperHugo44 Team), who came from 30th on the grid, and reigning Champion Guido Pini (AC Racing Team) joined him on the box. The late drama also ensured the absent Brian Uriarte didn’t lose any ground in the title race, with the Spaniard still trailing Quiles by a solitary point, with a Catalunya double awaiting in just a couple weeks time.

Stock European Championship

Rounding out the day’s action was the Stock ECh race, and it proved a Muñoz masterclass. The Championship leader romped home without any other rider managing to lay a glove on him. Eric Fernandez (FAU55 TEY Racing), Muñoz’ main opposition in the title fight, started at the back of the grid but wasted little to no time in scything his way through the pack, and he came home second in what proved a successful exercise in damage control. The fight for the final podium place went down to the wire, but Marco Garcia (EasyRace Team) held off the threat of Archie McDonald (MRE Talent) and Alex Millan (Fifty Motorsport) on the line to take his second top three of the year.

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 83

MISANO HOSTS THE SEASON OPENING

#01

With the first round out of six, the Women’s European Championship kicked off at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, Italy.

Race 1

Starting from the pole position, Roberta Ponziani ruled by trying to gain a margin over her pursuers. Beatriz Neila Santos finished five tenths behind: the reigning champion tried to win, but had to settle with the second place, ahead of Sara Cabrini, third.

Rookie Natalia Rivera was only 57 thousandths off the podium, but made her debut with an excellent fourth place ahead of Aurelia Cruciani, fifth at the chequered flag. Good performance for the Israeli Ran Yochay, sixth ahead of Patrycja Sowa, seventh, Martina Guarino, eighth, and Mia Rusthen, ninth. Beatrice Barbera rounded out the top 10.

Race 2

Perfect weekend for Roberta Ponziani, who also in Race 2 had an impressive pace and won ahead of Beatriz Neila Santos for just 129 thousandths. Third position for Sara Cabrini. Natalia Rivera finished fourth in Race 2 too, but she signed the fastest lap (1’52″483). The Spanish rider preceded Aurelia Cruciani, fifth. Chilean Isis Carreño was sixth, Norvegian Mia Rusthen seventh, Israeli rider Ran Yochay was eighth ahead of Austrian Lena Kemmer. South African Jessica Howden closed the top ten.

ROAD RACING > WOMEN'S EUROPEAN SS 300 CUP
28TH - 30TH APRIL MISANO, ITALY
ROUND
84

DOUBLE WIN FOR SANTOS

The action got underway at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit in Valencia, Spain, where the Women's European SSP 300 Cup raced round two together with ESBK.

Race 1

On her home track Beatriz Neila Santos won taking advantage of Roberta Ponziani's crash. Natalia Rivera took the first podium finishing second ahead of Aurelia Cruciani. There were a lot of different nationalities behind the top three, with the Chilean Isis Carreño fourth, the Mexican Astrid Madrigal fifth and the Austrian Lena Kemmer sixth.

Race 2

Once more Beatriz Neila Santos had no rivals on home soil: the reigning champion won also Race 2. Starting from the pole position, the Spanish rider set the pace immediately, gaining an advantage from the first lap and managing it until the chequered flag. Behind her, Roberta Ponziani crashed and gave way to a group of four riders fighting for the podium. While Santos was dominating, Isis Carreño, Sara Cabrini, Aurelia Cruciani and Natalia Rivera were lighting up the race with great battles. The Chilean got the better finishing second ahead of the Italian, third by just one thousandth. At the end of a great battle, Cruciani was fourth and ahead of Rivera.

ROUND 12TH - 14TH MAY VALENCIA, SPAIN
#02
ROAD RACING > WOMEN'S EUROPEAN SS 300 CUP FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 85

DOUBLE WIN FOR SANTOS IN MOST ROUND

The Women's European SSP 300 Championship was back in action in the Czech Republic for the Most round, the third of the season.

Race 1

The Autodrom Most has a new queen: Beatriz Neila Santos (511 Racing Team) triumphs in Race 1 despite a tricky start and wins with some advantage. The reigning champion dominated a race with many crashes. Natalia Rivera (Trasimeno) was second even though she was just over 5 seconds behind the winner. Aurelia Cruciani (Roc'n'DeA), who started from the sixth position, bounced back and got the podium with a third place. Ran Yochay (Celo Racing) finished in fourth position ahead of Patrycja Sowa (Sowa Racing), fifth. Tough Race 1 for Roberta Ponziani (Roc'n'DeA), who had an highside and was hit by Sara Cabrini (Gradara Corse).

Race 2

The reigning champion Beatriz Neila Santos signed the double by leading Race 2 from the lights to the chequered flag and leaving behind her a heated fight for the remaining two podium positions. In a race full of battles, Natalia Rivera came out on top of the group chasing the podium, made up of four riders separated by more than two tenths. The Spaniard was second ahead of her team-mate Jessica Howden (Trasimeno). The South African achieved her best result of the season and got the podium for the first time in 2023. By only 60 thousandths, Roberta Ponziani was fourth, but redeemed herself after the tremendous crash in Race 1. Sara Cabrini closed the top five.

ROAD RACING > WOMEN'S EUROPEAN SS 300 CUP ROUND 23RD - 25TH JUNE MOST, CZECH REPUBLIC #03
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FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 87

THE SEASON STARTS IN SLOVAKIA

The season of the European STK 1000 Cup and European SSP 300 Cup started with the first round of the calendar.

The event took place together with the Alpe Adria International Motorcycle Championship at Slovakiaring, approximately 30 km away from Bratislava.

SSP 300

Race1 saw the battle for the win between Polish Matteusz Molik and Hungarian Mate Szamado, who finished second ahead of Konuk Mert from Turkey.

In Race2 Szamado managed to win with a gap of 18 seconds ahead of Daniel Turecek (Czech Republic) and Konuk, once more third.

STK 1000

Both Race1 and Race2 were won by Austrian Martin Tritscher. Second position for Lennart Ulbel (Austria) and third for Sinisha Kochoski (North Macedonia).

ROAD RACING > EUROPEAN SUPERSPORT 300 CUPSUPERSTOCK 1000 CUP ROUND 26TH - 28TH MAY SLOVAKIARING, SLOVAKIA #01
88

HUNGARY TO HOST THE SECOND ROUND

The second round of the European STK 1000 Cup and European SSP 300 Cup was raced in perfect weather conditions at Pannónia-Ring, Hungary, together with the Alpe Adria International Motorcycle Championship.

SSP 300

Both Race1 and Race2 saw the Hungarian rider Mate Szamado win ahead of Polish Matheusz Molik and Hungarian Krisztian Szilagyi. Home hero Szamado ruled with a huge gap on Molik: 26 seconds in the first round and 11 in the second. Great fight for the second position in the first round: the Polish rider managed to take it for just 0’079.

STK 1000

After the double second position in the first round at Slovakiaring, Lennart Ulbel won both the races ahead of Martin Tritsscher, winner in Slovakia. Double third for home rider Daniel Ersek.

ROUND 16TH - 18TH JUNE PANNONIARING, HUNGARY #02
ROAD RACING > EUROPEAN SUPERSPORT
SUPERSTOCK
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 89
300 CUP
1000 CUP

ROUND 1 AUSTRIA

ROUND 22ND - 23RD APRIL

LANDSHAAG, AUSTRIA #01

250 GP/Open

1. Guido Testoni, ITA

2. Bernard DEPIERREUX

3. Rolf HALLER

Supersport

1. Maurizio Bottalico, ITA

2. Tiziano Rosati, ITA

3. Mauro Poncini, ITA

Superbike

1. Andreas Gangl, AUT

2. Stefano Bonetti, ITA

3. Maurizio Bottalico, ITA

Supermoto Open

1. Carmine Matarazzo, ITA

2. Philippe Bongard, SWI

3. Cosimo Sozzo, ITA

ROUND 2 AUSTRIA

#02

ROUND 10TH - 11TH JUNE

250 GP | Race1 - Race2

1. Daniele Stolli, ITA

2. Stefano Leone, ITA

3. Marco Vigilucci, ITA

Supersport Race1

1. Maurizio Bottalico, ITA

2. Tiziano Rosati, ITA

3. Carmine Matarazzo, ITA

Race2

1. Maurizio Bottalico, ITA

2. Carmine Matarazzo, ITA

3. Giacomo Failla, ITA

Superbike Race1

1. Maurizio Bottalico, ITA

2. Jean Luc David, FRA

3. Andreas Gangl, Race2

1. Maurizio Bottalico, ITA

2. Jean Luc David, FRA

3. Andreas Gangl, Supermoto Race1

1. Carmine Matarazzo, ITA

2. Yuri Storniolo, ITA

3. Cosimo Sozzo, ITA Race2

1. Carmine Matarazzo, ITA

2. Cosimo Sozzo, ITA

3. Yuri Storniolo, ITA

JULBACH, AUSTRIA

90
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP
ROAD RACING > ROAD RACE HILL CLIMB

ROUND 1 IN ITALY

ROUND

03RD - 04TH JUNE #01 SEFRO-MACERATA, ITALY

The Italian landscape of Sefro was the perfect setting for the first round of the Trial European Championship.

Over 100 riders took part to the race, hold over the weekend of 3-4 June. It has been a highly anticipated event, perfectly organised by the Moto Club Camerino with 15 race zones in 3 different locations around the city.

Trial EC

1. Teo COLAIRO FRA

2. Jarand VOLD GUNVALDSEN SPA

3. Noe PETRALLI SUI

Junior Cup

1. Giacomo BRUNISSO ITA

2. Mirko PEDRETTI ITA

3. Jan Christopher BALOUSEK CZE

Over 40 Cup

1. Dan CLARK GBR

2. Jussi HAAPANEN FIN

3. Staffan FLOESSEL FIN

Women EC

1. Andrea Sofia RABINO ITA

2. Alice MINTA GBR

3. Huldeborg BARKVED NOR

Youth EC

1. Johannes HEIDEL GER

2. Fabio SACHT GER

3. Pablo ECHENE FRA

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 91 TRIAL EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP

ROUND #01

22ND - 23RD APRIL

LANDSHAAG, AUSTRIA

Race 1 / Race 2

Classic 350 – Frank Seidl, GER

Classic 500 – Bert Heider, GER

125 GP – Guido Testoni, ITA

250 GP – Roberto Della Latta, ITA

Classic 500 – Bert Heider – GER

Classic 750

Hermann Altenhuber, AUT

Classic Superbike

Wolfgang Deutschmann, GER

Sidecars 8a

Roland and Maria Gundinger, AUT

Sidecars 8b

Armin Pfalz and Dirk Lüttke, GER

Sidecars 8c

Peter and Helga Gierlinger, GER

Classic Special Open 9a

Stefan Dobler, AUT

Classic Special Open 9b

Reinhard Maier, AUT

ROUND #02

10TH - 11TH JUNE

JULBACH, AUSTRIA

Race 1

Class 1 - Frank Seidl, DE

Class 2 - Bert Heider, DE

Class 3 - Bert Heider, DE

Class 4 - Guido Testoni, ITA

Class 5 - Roberto Della Latta, ITA

Class 6 - Hermann Altenhuber, AUS

Class 7 - Wolfgang Deutschmann, GER

Class 8a - Roland Gundinger

Maria Gundinger, AUS

Class 8b - Armin Pfalz

Dirk Luttke, GER

Class 8c - Peter Gierlinger

Helga Gierlinger

Class 9a - Karl Heinz Vielgut, GER

Class 9b - Reinhard Maier, AUS

ROUND #01

19TH - 21ST MAY RING DJURSLAND, DENMARK

Race 1 winner

Class 3 - Hans Henrik Pallesen, DEN

Class 4 - Benny Lysen, DEN

Class 5 - Benny Lysen, DEN

Class 6 - Lars Sandberg, DEN

Class 7a - Magnus Mossberg, SWE

Class 7b - Carl Frederiksen, DEN

Class 8b - Kjell Strömberg, SWE

Class 8d - Erik Helgerud, NOR

Class 8e - Gerd Schapelt, GER

Class 9a - Tore Stene, NOR

Class 9b - Björn Gunnarsson, SWE

Race 2 winner

Class 3 - Hans Henrik Pallesen, DEN

Class 4 - Bernd Pöllmann, GER

Class 5 - Bernd Pöllmann, GER

Class 6 - Lars Sandberg, DEN

Class 7a - Magnus Mossberg, SWE

Class 7b - Carl Frederiksen, DEN

Class 8b - Kjell Strömberg, SWE

Class 8d - Erik Helgerud, NOR

Class 8e - Gerd Schapelt, GER

Class 9a - Tore Stene, NOR

Class 9b - Björn Gunnarsson, SWE

VINTAGE > VINTAGE ROAD RACING
MOTOCROSS & SNOWCROSS > EMX OPEN VINTAGE > VINTAGE HILL CLIMB EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP 92

VINTAGE > VINTAGE ENDURO EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP

ROUND #01

03RD - 04TH JUNE

MONREALE, ITALY

The winners (Day 1 and Day2)

Expert up to 75 - Federico Fregnan, ITA (Fantic)

Expert up to 125 - Paolo Sala, ITA (Gilera)

Expert over 125 - Giancarlo Donadio, ITA (Honda)

Classic up to 75 - Francis Mace, ITA (Fantic)

Classic up to 125 - Ole Fleischer (Kramer)

Classic up to 250 - Stephane Peterhansel, FRA (Yamaha)

Open up to 80 - Philippe Barthomeuf (Cardel)

Open up to 125 - Riccardo Terranova, ITA (Cagiva)

Open up to 250 - Rodriguez Montane (KTM)

The winners (Day 1)

Classic over 250 - Jens Oestreich (Kramer)

Open over 250 - Eric Cyffka (Husqvarna)

The winners (Day 2)

Classic over 250 - Serra Miquel Angel Boet (Yamaha)

Open over 250 - Dario Lamura, ITA (Honda)

ROUND #02

17TH - 18TH JUNE

LA CERDANYA, SPAIN

The winners (Day 1 and Day2)

Expert up to 75 - Federico Fregnan, ITA (Fantic)

Expert over 125 - Xavier Arenas Pena, SPA (Montesa)

Classic up to 75 - Adriano Micozzi, ITA (Ancilloti)

Classic up to 125 - Ole Fleischer (Kramer)

Classic up to 250 - David Gomez Carrion, SPA (Yamaha)

Classic over 250 - Angel Miquel Boet Angel, SPA (Yamaha)

Open up to 80 - Patrice Mourges (Cardel)

Open up to 125 - Fredric Rivalan (Yamaha)

Open up to 250 - Rodriguez Montane (KTM)

The winners (Day 1)

Expert up to 125 - Pescia Massimo, ITA (SWM)

Classic up to 75 - Adriano Micozzi, ITA (Ancilloti)

Open over 250 - Dario Lamura, ITA (Honda)

The winners (Day 2)

Expert up to 125 - Gianfranco Spurio, ITA (Fantic)

Classic up to 75 – Francis Macè (Fantic)

Open over 250 – Erik Ciffka, ITA (Husqvarna)

FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 93

FIM EUROPE INTERNAL AUDIT AND MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

INSTITUTIONAL NEWS
The Internal Audit and the Management Council of FIM Europe respectively were held on 4th and 5th April at the General Secretariat in Fiumicino.
94
From left to right: Manuel Marinheiro, Jean Marc Desnues, Roy N. Wetterstad, Alessandro Sambuco, Michal Sikora, Nicoleta Melania Olariu, Francesco C. Mezzasalma, Juhani Halme, Tapio Nevala, Laurent Delbroek, José Ramón García. From left to right: Silvia Monatti, Andrzej Witkowski, Vadym Kopylov, Laurent Delbroek, José Ramón García, Tapio Nevala.

“We are after first meeting of Management Council in 2023. We discussed actual situation as well as future developments like new format of Commission Meetings. Also, MC members talked about an organization of Congress in Zaragoza. But most important was to discuss the financial situation and to listen to report of the Auditors”.

MICHAL SIKORA

“FIM Europe has worked hard to reach a good result in 2022. Preparing a budget in equilibrium and to realize charges and incomes accordingly was very difficult in the period after Covid and in a situation of high inflation in Europe like it is now”.

FIM Europe President
FIM EUROPE MAGAZINE 95
LAURENT DELBROEK Chairman of the Auditors

MAGAZINE FIM EUROPE

Legal Head Office 11, route de Suisse - 1295 Mies - Switzerland Tel. +41 22.950.95.00

Secrétariat Général / General Secretariat Viale delle Arti, 181 00054 Fiumicino (Italy)

E-mail: office@fim-europe.com

Service de Presse/Press Office: fimeuropepress@gmail.com www.fim-europe.com

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