MXGP musical chairs: Max Anstie
Factory Husqvarna rider Max Anstie is one of several top riders who does not yet have a seat for 2019. Although there was talk of a possible place at HRC Honda, it now appears that this door is closed.
After suffering a concussion and injury at the Valencia GP at Red Sand, the third round of the World Championship, Anstie has struggled to carry his blazing form from the 2017 MX of Nations into his second season with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna.
Anstie's third place in the MXGP of Lommel came at an excellent time for the Brit. It was his second podium finish of the season and the sixth podium for his team. Max was reportedly told during the French Grand Prix that his contract would not be extended.
“I don't have anything at the moment,” the 25-year-old rider said. “I'm just focusing on my job now, to achieve the best possible results for my team. My team does everything it can to provide me and my teammate with every opportunity to perform. Results such as my podium place in Lommel are what we are aiming for. Ice One does excellent work and they are very professional.”
Anstie is said to have been in discussions with Honda as doubts arose about Brian Bogers' foot injury. Due to successive setbacks, BB has not yet played this season after his injury sustained during a press test. In the meantime, however, it became clear that Bogers will simply remain Gajser's teammate next year without adding a third driver.
There don't seem to be many options for the popular Englishman. Anstie could be tied with his current teammate Gautier Paulin for second place at Wilvo Yamaha MXGP. In addition, teams such as Dixon Racing Team, Assomotor Honda and Gebben Van Venrooij Kawasaki are also featured. The Rockstar Energy Ice One Husqvarna team has yet to announce its second rider alongside the surprising Arminas Jasikonis.
Text: Adam Wheeler
Photos: JP Acevedo
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