Stefan Everts about the Belgian MX of Nations team
Stefan Everts himself won the Motocross of Nations five times with the Belgian team. This weekend in Mantova, Italy it was son Liam's turn to make his debut in the World Cup for national teams.
Just like in Riola Sardo, where 'Liamski' completed his first GP, Everts passed his MXoN baptism of fire with flying colors. The 17-year-old Limburger finished 4th in the MX2 and won the Ricky Carmichael award for the best youngster.
The run-up to the first Motocross of Nations was certainly exciting for Everts and his family. After all, due to the cancellation of MX2 world star Jago Geerts, all eyes were on his replacement, Liam Everts. The weekend itself would also be an emotional rollercoaster for the young trio of team manager Johan Boonen.
Stefan Everts: “I actually thought on Saturday that a top-10 place would be very difficult for the Belgians. The weather has then reshuffled the card! The rain made it a completely different competition in which we unexpectedly competed for the podium. After the second series it looked very good. We needed one more good result. Unfortunately, that did not work out, neither for Cyril (Genot) nor for Brent (van Doninck). Too bad, it was too good to be true.”
On the other hand, the Belgians have shown themselves. They gave the best of themselves. Everyone really rode a good series. Brent finished fourth in his first heat, Cyril finished sixth in his first heat. It was very difficult for Liam on Sunday. He had given up his place at the start because he would have started badly anyway, even if he had had the inside. So it was no surprise that he had to fight through it. It was actually part of the tactic. We also decided that he would not come in like this if he had to continue without glasses. Regardless of the time left in the match to hold on as best as possible. In any case, that choice turned out well!”
“To be unexpectedly in the running for a podium with a B team... Then I think the men did well after all. All in all it was a beautiful Nations. Even if the weather was bad and there was a limitation in terms of audience. There was a certain Nations atmosphere that was always different from a normal match.
I'm glad we got to experience this and so did Liam. He has gained another experience. Hopefully he will get that chance again in the future to finish it and reach the podium.”
Tekst: Editorial office
Photos: Gino Maes
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