The outcome of each of the two World Motocross Championships hangs in the balance as the action switches for the first time to a purpose built track at Donington Park at the heart of the Midlands.
In the elite series, Josh Coppins is expected to be back aboard his Yamaha to head off the growing threat of Suzuki’s Steve Ramon who has turned up the pressure in recent rounds with a series of strong performance, capitalising fully on his injury sidelined rival.
The Kiwi hurt his shoulder in a tumble while competing in the Czech Republic round but he is winning a race against time to be fit to face the sport’s latest challenge at this specially constructed course on the infield area of the Leicestershire venue that annually hosts the British Motorcycle Grand Prix.
Some 50,000 tons of soil have been transported into the venue to craft a technically demanding course that should pack exciting fast and high flying action.
For all of the riders, the first experience of riding the course will be in opening free practice on Saturday morning – this provides for a classic showdown and could see top riders including Seb Pourcel aboard a Kawasaki and KTM’s David Philippaerts close down on the leading duo, while top British riders Billy Mackenzie and James Noble together with Gordon Crockard will be aiming to get ahead of the pack.
There are two races, each of 35 minutes and two laps duration, for both the MX1 and MX2 categories, the latter providing the opportunity for the Sicilian rider Antonio Cairoli to clinch the crown. He has a sizeable lead over Chris Pourcel with the Frenchman needing to look over his shoulder to keep an eye on the two riders closing in fast on his runner-up spot.
Tyla Rattray who has produced challenging performances recently, and Derby based rider Tommy Searle aboard the Red Bull KTM, a race winner last time out, are well placed for late push for honours. Other locals to watch are Carl Nunn, riding Yamaha and his teamster Martin Barr, Tom Church aboard a Kawasaki, Shaun Simpson on a similar machine and the Suzuki duo of Jake Nicholls and Jason Dougan.
It is the first time the British Motocross Grand Prix has been held in the Midlands confirming Donington Park as the top motorsport venue in Great Britain. Practice will be held on Saturday August 25 with a full day of Championship racing on Sunday August 26.
Tickets are on sale – to book visit
www.donington-park.co.uk or call the hot-line on 08700 429669.
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