Interview: Jake Cannon – “You can’t really be good at just one condition over here”

Australian motocross rider Jake Cannon has achieved a significant milestone by securing his first overall victory in the EMX250 class while racing for BUD Kawasaki. After a series of consistent podium finishes, Cannon’s breakthrough came at Arco di Trento, where he demonstrated exceptional fitness, determination, and racecraft. Despite challenging starts in both motos, he fought his way through the pack, delivering strong performances that culminated in a hard-fought overall win, marking a pivotal moment in his European campaign. Cannon reflected on the emotional and physical demands of his victory, revealing that the win was the result of relentless hard work and growing confidence. He described the contrasting conditions of the two motos, highlighting how his fitness allowed him to push hard until the final laps, especially in the first race where his fastest lap came at the very end. Interestingly, Cannon admitted he was unaware of his overall win until after the race, emphasising his focus on riding his own race rather than the championship standings during competition. Adapting to Europe’s diverse and often unpredictable track conditions remains a key challenge for Cannon and other riders. He noted the stark differences between the hard, technical track at Arco di Trento and the rough, rut-filled circuits like Sardinia, underscoring the importance of versatility in the European motocross scene. Cannon expressed confidence in his ability to perform across varied terrains, a trait he believes is essential for championship success given the continent’s demanding calendar and range of conditions. The victory also carries significance for Australian motocross, with Cannon becoming the first Australian to win the EMX250 overall since Jett Lawrence. He acknowledged the pride his achievement brings to his home country and shared the support he has received from family and fans. Looking ahead, Cannon is focused on maintaining consistency and building on this success throughout the season, aiming to establish himself as a regular front-runner in the highly competitive European series.