Kay de Wolf discusses his first MXGP podium: “I just pinned it and happy to be on the box”

Kay de Wolf achieved a significant milestone by securing his first MXGP podium, delivering a remarkable performance despite facing setbacks and injury. The Dutch rider overcame a chaotic start and a crash early in the second moto, where he dropped to the back of the pack before mounting an impressive charge to finish third. His determination and speed throughout the race underscored his potential to compete at the highest level in the premier class. De Wolf revealed that he had been riding with injuries to both thumbs, complicating his efforts during the weekend. The initial injury occurred at the Dutch Masters, with a subsequent incident at home exacerbating the problem. Despite the pain and limited grip strength, he managed to adapt his riding style and still produce a strong result, though he acknowledged that the top riders, Lucas Coenen and Jeffrey Herlings, were operating on a different level. His physical challenges made it difficult to keep pace, especially given the tough competition and demanding nature of the MXGP category. The step up to MXGP has proven to be a steep learning curve for De Wolf, who candidly discussed the intensity and speed required to compete among the elite. He highlighted the fierce competition even for mid-pack positions and emphasised the importance of continual improvement and experience. While he recognised the gap between himself and the frontrunners, he remains focused on developing his skills and closing that distance in future races. This breakthrough podium marks a pivotal moment in De Wolf’s career, showcasing both his resilience and raw talent. Battling through adversity and injury to reach the podium demonstrates his capacity to contend with the sport’s best. If his recent performance is any indication, De Wolf is poised to become a consistent presence at the sharp end of MXGP racing in the near future.