The Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP riders made a powerful statement at the Pernes les Fontaines International event, kicking off their 2026 season in style. But here's where it gets exciting: all three riders, Romain Febvre, Pauls Jonass, and Mathis Valin, showcased their talent and determination, each securing a spot on the podium!
The day started with dry training, but as fate would have it, the rain arrived just after midday, adding an extra layer of challenge. Yet, the weather couldn't dampen the spirits of the eager crowd, who were treated to a thrilling display of racing. The main attraction was the reigning MXGP world champion, Romain Febvre, proudly sporting the #1 plate on his Kawasaki KX450-SR for the first time. Febvre's performance was nothing short of spectacular, winning the first moto against his previous year's rival and dominating the second moto by a significant margin, despite the worsening track conditions.
However, the third moto proved to be a twist in the tale. Febvre, leading the race, encountered two costly mistakes, pushing him down the rankings. But in a display of true resilience, he fought back to finish sixth in the moto, securing second place overall on the podium. His teammate, Pauls Jonass, also impressed with consistent performances, finishing 3rd, 4th, and 2nd in the motos, joining Febvre on the podium.
In the MX2 category, Mathis Valin dominated despite a DNF in the second race due to a collision with a 450 rider. He demonstrated his skill by posting the third-fastest time against the 450s in the morning training session and maintaining a strong position in the first moto, even after a pit stop for fresh goggles. Valin's determination paid off, earning him the top spot on the MX2 podium.
Controversy arises when we consider the riders' perspectives. Febvre acknowledged the track's difficulty in the third moto, but he remains confident in his preparation, speed, and starts. Jonass, while pleased with his performance, highlights the challenging track conditions and expresses satisfaction with his bike's handling. Valin, on the other hand, offers a unique insight into the challenges of racing with 450s and the impact of rain on his strategy.
Team manager Antti Pyrhönen praised the event as an excellent opportunity for the team to shake off the winter cobwebs and emphasized the importance of racing in their preparation. With their sights set on the upcoming GP in Argentina, the Kawasaki Racing Team is leaving no stone unturned in their quest for success.
What do you think about the team's performance and their prospects for the season? Do you agree that Febvre's resilience in the third moto was a standout moment, or do you have a different opinion on the most impressive achievement of the day?
