Riola Ready! Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX Teams Target Success in the Sand of Sardinia

The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP and MX2 teams are gearing up for the fourth round of the FIM Motocross World Championship in Riola Sardo, Sardinia. Following a successful double podium finish in Switzerland, MXGP riders Maxime Renaux and Tim Gajser arrive in Sardinia with strong momentum and confidence. Both riders have extensively prepared for the sandy conditions of Riola, having spent the pre-season testing and training on the demanding terrain. Their recent testing in Belgium has further sharpened their physical and technical readiness, with both aiming to convert their preparation into more podium finishes. In the MX2 category, the Yamaha team is buoyed by the recent victory of Karlis Reisulis at an Easter Monday race in the Netherlands, while his younger brother Janis, a promising rookie, is eager to showcase his potential on the challenging sand track. Janis has limited race experience at Riola but has familiarised himself with the circuit during pre-season sessions. Meanwhile, Karlis brings more experience and a focus on maintaining rhythm and consistency throughout the weekend. Adding to the MX2 lineup is Lotte van Drunen, the reigning Women’s Motocross World Champion, who is using wildcard entries to hone her racecraft ahead of her title defence later this month. The event will also feature the third rounds of the EMX250 and EMX125 Championships, with Yamaha riders Mano Faure and Sleny Goyer both aiming to convert their promising positions in the standings into podium finishes. Faure is currently fourth in the EMX250 series, while Goyer is close behind in EMX125, just a point shy of third place. Both young riders are focused on closing the gap to the leaders as the championship progresses. Maxime Renaux emphasised the physical and technical demands of the Riola circuit, expressing his aim to maintain consistency and secure more championship points. Tim Gajser highlighted the importance of enjoying the race and getting good starts, noting that his familiarity with the track from winter training gives him confidence. Janis Reisulis described Riola as one of his favourite sand tracks and is determined to connect fully with the circuit to reach his potential. Karlis Reisulis echoed the need for rhythm and consistency, aiming to improve on past performances. With strong preparation across all classes and riders motivated by recent successes, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory teams are well positioned to challenge for top results in Sardinia. The weekend promises to be a crucial test of skill and endurance on one of the championship’s most physically demanding sand tracks, with implications for the evolving title battles in MXGP, MX2, and the European EMX series.