Confirmed: Billy Askew set for MX2 GP debut in France

Billy Askew, a promising young British motocross rider, is set to make his MX2 World Championship debut at the Lacapelle Marival circuit in France. This upcoming race follows his participation in the British Championship and marks a significant step in his 2026 season, which involves competing across multiple championships to gain valuable experience. The French venue, known for its traditional hard-pack surface, will provide a challenging environment for Askew as he adapts to the heightened demands of world-level competition. Askew’s entry into the MX2 World Championship comes as part of his ongoing development programme, alongside teammate Ben Watson, who will be racing in the MXGP class at the same event. The young rider is approaching the debut with realistic expectations, focusing primarily on gaining race experience and completing solid motos rather than targeting immediate results. He emphasised the importance of learning from the experience and acknowledged the unpredictability of racing, while remaining confident in his abilities should he secure a strong start. Looking ahead, Askew plans to continue competing in the MX2 World Championship rounds that do not clash with his commitments in the EMX250 Championship, maintaining a dual campaign under the Dirt Store Triumph banner alongside Watson. The presence of an experienced teammate like Watson is proving invaluable, offering guidance and support that is helping Askew develop both on and off the track. This mentorship is seen as a key factor in his progression as he navigates the challenges of higher-level competition. While Askew’s results in the British Championship have yet to fully reflect his potential, he remains positive about his trajectory as he accumulates more race time and gains confidence. The upcoming races, including the MX2 World Championship rounds, are expected to be crucial in his development, providing opportunities to test himself against some of the best riders in the world. The Lacapelle Marival GP will be a significant milestone in his career, offering a tough but valuable challenge on a classic European circuit.