Back to Business! Yamaha Stars Set Sights on French Success as MXGP Resumes in Lacapelle-Marival

The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP and MX2 teams are gearing up for an intense period as the FIM Motocross World Championship resumes this weekend at Lacapelle-Marival in France. After a rare four-week break, the teams are set for three consecutive rounds, starting with round six of the MXGP series. The event also marks the debut of the 2026 FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship, with defending champion Lotte van Drunen aiming for her third consecutive title. Lacapelle-Marival, although a relatively new addition to the MXGP calendar since 2021, is a familiar and challenging circuit for many riders, including French favourite Maxime Renaux and reigning champion Tim Gajser, both of whom have previously enjoyed podium success there. Maxime Renaux views the French round as a crucial opportunity to rebound after a difficult start to the season. The French rider has used the break to reassess and intensify his training both on and off the bike, aiming to find the consistency needed to challenge regularly for podium finishes. Renaux is particularly motivated by the prospect of racing in front of his home crowd, hoping their support will spur him on during the demanding triple-header stretch ahead. Meanwhile, Tim Gajser arrives in France in good shape following a rib injury sustained earlier in the season. The five-time world champion has spent the break recovering and refining his bike setup, confident that he is nearing full fitness and ready to continue his pursuit of race wins and championship points. In the MX2 category, brothers Janis and Karlis Reisulis enter the French round feeling refreshed and well-prepared. Janis balanced his training with school exams during the hiatus, maintaining race sharpness with a strong performance at the Dutch Masters, while Karlis also stayed active with training and racing. Both riders are eager to capitalise on their renewed focus as the championship intensifies. The EMX125 Championship will also resume in France, with the MJC Yamaha Official EMX125 team boosted by the return of Levi Townley after a shoulder injury. French rider Sleny Goyer, currently third in the standings, will be aiming to leverage the home advantage for a strong result. Riders have expressed cautious optimism and determination ahead of this demanding phase of the season. Gajser highlighted the importance of the break for his recovery and the progress made in testing, emphasising the need to enjoy racing while pushing for improvements. Renaux described the upcoming period as a fresh start, with a focus on consistency and podium finishes, especially motivated by competing on home soil. The Reisulis brothers echoed similar sentiments, focusing on personal bests and adapting to the technical track conditions. Overall, Yamaha’s riders are poised to make a significant impact as the championship returns to action in Lacapelle-Marival.