Buoyed by Good Memories Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Teams Aim to Bounce Back in Trentino

The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory teams are gearing up for a strong comeback at the fifth round of the FIM Motocross World Championship, set to take place this weekend at the Crossodromo il Ciclamino Circuit in Pietramurata, Italy. Both the MXGP and MX2 squads are motivated by their previous successes at this historic venue, which has hosted 21 Grands Prix since 1985. The circuit’s demanding hard clay and stony surface, combined with narrow sections and elevation changes, requires riders to have excellent starts, smooth throttle control, and mental resilience. Following a physically taxing race in Sardinia, the Yamaha riders have prioritised recovery, engaging in light training to prepare for the hard-pack conditions of Trentino. Tim Gajser, currently fifth in the MXGP World Championship standings, has a particularly strong connection to the Arco circuit, where he secured his first Grand Prix win 11 years ago and has since claimed six victories, including a flawless performance last season. Maxime Renaux, sixth in the standings, also holds fond memories of the venue, having won his MX2 World Title there in 2021 and achieved his first EMX125 victory earlier in his career. The Yamaha success story extends to the EMX ranks as well, with Janis Reisulis and his brother Karlis both enjoying significant milestones at this circuit, including Janis’s dominant EMX125 weekend in 2023 and Karlis’s first EMX podium. The riders have expressed cautious optimism ahead of the weekend, focusing on recovery and regaining their form after the challenging sand track of Riola Sardo. Gajser emphasised the importance of recovery and the support from his physiotherapist, while also looking forward to the enthusiastic Slovenian fans who regularly attend the event. Renaux highlighted the difficulty of transitioning from sand to hard-pack but remains confident due to his experience and positive history at Trentino. Both Reisulis brothers echoed similar sentiments, noting the track’s atmosphere and their ability to adapt quickly between different terrains. Looking ahead, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory teams aim to leverage their strong past performances and familiarity with the circuit to secure solid results. The riders’ shared focus on recovery and preparation reflects the tight and demanding nature of the MXGP calendar, where quick turnarounds between rounds are common. With a blend of experience, resilience, and motivation, the Yamaha contingent is poised to challenge for top positions and add to their impressive record at the Crossodromo il Ciclamino. The weekend promises to be a critical test of their ability to bounce back and maintain momentum in the championship.