With the MXGP of Spain being a fan-favourite event, expectations are high for an action-packed race at the man-made and slightly revised Xanadu-Arroyomolinos circuit, a staple on the calendar since its 2020 debut.
Situated a mere 30-minute drive from Madrid-Barajas airport, the circuit boasts a challenging clay-based, tight, and jumpy track layout that will test the mettle of the top MXGP riders. Maxime Renaux is fourth in the ranks leading the pack for Yamaha, followed by Gebben Van Venrooy Yamaha Supported Team’s Calvin Vlaanderen in sixth, while teammates Glenn Coldenhoff and Jeremy Seewer make up the top eight.
After celebrating the Spanish Grand Prix on the podium last year, Coldenhoff is eager to replicate that same success this weekend. ‘The Hoff’ is seventh in the championship ranks, trailing Vlaanderen by 10 points.
Meanwhile, 4 points further adrift, Seewer has faced his share of obstacles this season, but returns rejuvenated and determined to build on his progress from Portugal. Although the Swiss rider has previously struggled at the Madrid venue, he is optimistic about the track modifications and confident that a podium finish is within reach.
With similar aspirations, Renaux looks forward to reconnecting with the circuit that holds treasured memories for him. As the Spanish Grand Prix winner in MX2 in 2021 and after celebrating a maiden premier-class victory here last year, the talented Frenchman is eager to again conquer the Xanadu Aroyomolinos circuit.
In addition to the MXGP action, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team is ready to make its mark in Spain. Jago Geerts has been impressive this year, winning three of the five Grand Prix rounds and six of the ten races. As a result, the Belgian holds a 36-point lead over Andrea Adamo and will carry the red plate on his YZ250FM for the sixth weekend in a row.
At the same time, Thibault Benistant is determined to rebound from a challenging weekend in Agueda with a strong performance in Madrid. The French rider is aiming for a podium finish to close the 14-point gap to the top three in the standings, while 'The Rookie' Rick Elzinga is focused on improving his position in the MX2 Championship.
Elzinga is working hard to overcome his challenges this season and currently ranks 11th in the standings, 13 points shy of the top-10.
Yamaha's presence in Spain will also be strengthened by the Hutten Metaal Yamaha Official Team, who will be competing in the fourth round of the EMX250 Championship. The team's star Andrea Bonacorsi arrives with the red plate attached to his GYTR kitted YZ250F, holding a 35-point lead in the championship, while the rookies, Karlis Reisulis and Ivano Van Erp will also be striving to improve upon their current eighth and ninth positions.
For the Timetable from the MXGP of Spain, click here.
Lead image: Monster Energy / CDS
