Will Maxime Renaux ride in the MXGP in 2022?
It is increasingly looking like Maxime Renaux (Monster Energy Factory Yamaha MX2) will become the fourth French MX2 World Champion since 2010 in his first year as a factory rider in the Kemea setup. The 21-year-old top talent leads with 21 points and took eight podium places in a row. No decision has yet been made regarding his sporting future in 2022.
Renaux has been mentioned in the same breath as a switch to MXGP for some time now. The fact that Yamaha Motor Europe is holding off on extending the contract of Ben Watson, who is in his first season for the MXGP Yamaha factory team, indicates that there may be a place for Maxime Renaux.
Although it is possible that the Frenchman is put off by the lack of patience Yamaha has shown with Ben Watson. Last year the Englishman rode for the Monster Energy Factory Yamaha MX2 that Renaux now rides for. Watson really had to switch to MXGP because he had reached the maximum age of 23 years.
Both Jeremy Seewer and Glenn Coldenhoff are still under contract to compete on the YZ450FM next year. The current World Cup leader in the quarter-liters emphasizes that the title in 2021 is an essential part of his development to be at the top in a possible transition to the premier class.
“I am now really focused on the fight for the title. So a decision has still not been made,” he said of the speculation. “We haven't really talked about it yet. First we have to win the MX2 title and then we'll see. The 450 is certainly a bike that I like. I also want to gain as much experience as possible to get closer to winning the title in MXGP. That is also one of my goals. We have to make this season as special as possible - and - hopefully - end it with the world title. We will then determine the direction of my career for the coming years.”
Renaux's hesitation is understandable. Moreover, Maxime has already publicly indicated that he wants to gain experience in MX2 for another season. On the other hand, Yamaha will be keen to make a decision as part of their strategy for the end of the World Championship season in early November.
Tekst: Adam Wheeler, Tom Jacobs
Photos: Yamaha racing
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