Pauls Jonass signs with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing.
Husqvarna today finally officially announced Pauls Jonass to the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MXGP team. The 21-year-old Latvian will play for Kimi Räikkonen's team in 2019 and 2020.
The 21-year-old Jonass became the 2017 MX2 World Champion and is one of the most successful MX2017 riders in recent history. After a strong 2 campaign, Pauls finished a close second to Jorge Prado. In 2018 he became 2011cc junior world champion two years later he won the 85cc junior motocross world championship.
Pauls Jonass – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing: “I am very happy with this switch! The MXGP category is a big challenge for me, but I can't wait to get started. Being part of such an acclaimed team like Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing gives me immense motivation to continue working hard to achieve my goals. I look forward to a great future together with the team. I have known Antti [Pyrhönen] and the rest of the team members for several years and it feels good to start working with them. After my knee surgery last month, my goal now is to start riding my Husqvarna as soon as possible. I want to be able to ride as much as possible, so that I am fully fit and ready for the new season.”
Diego Clement – Head of Motorsport at Husqvarna Motorcycles: “We are very happy that former MX2 world champion Pauls Jonass is joining our team. We really believe that Pauls has the potential to become a top rider in the extremely competitive MXGP. Pauls is one of the most experienced motocross riders of his generation and is now a three-time world champion. His speed has never been in doubt, and he has impressed us with his ability to perform well on different tracks. It will be an exciting new season and we are all looking forward to seeing Pauls compete against the MXGP elite on our FC 450 machine.”
Kimi Räikkönen – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing (IceOne) team owner: “With the arrival of Pauls to our team, the intention is to continue our success. The Motocross World Championship is the most competitive global motocross championship and we are pleased to strengthen our team with a former world champion. I am confident that all members of our team will do their best to help Pauls achieve his goals in the MXGP class.”
Antti Pyrhönen – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing MXGP team manager: “We all look forward to working with Pauls Jonass as he embarks on an exciting new chapter in his professional motocross career. Everyone knows that Pauls is an extremely hard-working driver, who we know will fit well with our team. The fact that he was already world champion speaks volumes about his capabilities. He is strong both physically and mentally and has proven time and time again that he is able to excel even under the toughest conditions. We can't wait to get started with this young and very talented rider. “
Photos: shotbybavo
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