Yamaha Factory MX2 to Russia with mixed feelings
The Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 won the constructors' title last year. For 2021, Hans Corvers' formation is bringing together a very strong trio. Both Thibault Benistant and Maxime Renaux impressed during the preparation. Strongman Jago Geerts is satisfied with 'his winter', but suffered a minor setback this weekend. He hurt his knee in the opener of the 24MX tour in Ernée.
Geerts, who finished third in 2019 and second in 2020, is determined to win the title this year. As we reported yesterday, the 21-year-old Belgian suffered a tear in the medial ligament of the left knee. After much deliberation and a detailed medical examination, Jago decided to go to Orlyonok. His goal: drive and collect as many points as possible. In any case, the Kempen native has positive memories of the Russian circuit, where he won his FIM Junior 2016cc world title in 125.
Former top talent Maxime Renaux thanks Yamaha for their trust last year with an impressive third place in the final standings. However, Renaux is hungry for more success. The 20-year-old Frenchman has had a punishing off-season and is heading to Russia in the best shape of his life!
After winning the EMX250 title in 2020, Thibault Benistant continued his momentum in the MX2 World Championship. The 18-year-old 'sudist' impressed during his three wild-card appearances and even finished two heats in the top three. Benistant is therefore ready to take his place as 'the next big thing'. This year, Thibault will also be on the full factory YZ250FM for his first full World Championship season.
Jago Geerts: “I'm looking forward to the first round in Russia. I had a good winter preparation this year. We've worked a lot on the engine and we've made some positive changes that I'm happy with. My feeling on the bike is good and I am very motivated to start the season. Last weekend I suffered a minor injury, but my physiotherapist is positive and believes it is possible to ride. So I have nothing to lose and am looking forward to racing.”
Maxime Renaux: “I feel good going into the season, winter training has been long and we are ready for it! It's going to be another strange season but I'm really looking forward to it. I love the track in Russia, it's a hard track with high speed and always fun to drive. The goal is to start the season step by step. We know the season is long, so I'm going to focus on good starts and consistent motos and then we'll see where we end up.”
Thibault Benistant: “I feel very good to finally start the first race of the season after a long winter. I really like the circuit in Orlyonok. There are some big jumps and it is also quite hard, just like in the south of France, so it feels like home to me. I'm going there without any pressure, I just want to gain the experience and improve throughout the season. I'm all ready to get started!”
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Photos: Huub Munsters, shotbyBavo
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