LUCAS COENEN PUSHES TO THE MAX FOR 2ND OVERALL AT BRUTAL FRENCH MXGP

Lucas Coenen secured a strong second overall at the French MXGP held in Lacapelle Marival, delivering a standout performance on a challenging, sunbaked circuit. The Belgian rider posted a first and second place in the two motos, marking his sixth moto victory of the 2026 season and allowing him to maintain the championship lead with a narrow points advantage. The event marked the return of the MXGP series after a five-week break, with riders contending with a technical and compact track that demanded precision and strong starts to contend for podium positions. The race weekend also saw solid performances from other Red Bull KTM Factory Racing riders. Andrea Adamo, the Italian rookie, earned his second-best result of the season by finishing sixth overall, showing consistency with a fifth and seventh place in the motos. Meanwhile, in the MX2 class, Simon Laengenfelder secured fifth overall despite a late crash in the second race, and Sacha Coenen finished seventh, maintaining a close fight for the championship lead with Laengenfelder separated by just eight points. The EMX125 European Championship also featured prominently, with Austrian riders Ricardo Bauer and Moritz Ernecker dominating the motos and championship standings. Lucas Coenen reflected on his efforts, emphasising the importance of consistency and strategic riding over outright aggression, especially given the unpredictable nature of the circuit and race interruptions. He acknowledged the intensity of the competition and the long championship ahead, underlining his determination to continue pushing forward. Adamo and the MX2 riders also expressed satisfaction with their performances while recognising areas for improvement, particularly in starts and adapting to the tricky track conditions. Looking ahead, the MXGP series moves to the German Grand Prix at Teutschenthal, a tight hardpack circuit that promises another demanding test for the riders. With the championship tightly contested, especially between Coenen and Herlings in MXGP and Laengenfelder and Sacha Coenen in MX2, the upcoming rounds will be crucial in shaping the title race. The French GP results have set the stage for an intense second half of the season as riders seek to capitalise on momentum and refine their strategies.