The Grand Prix of Qatar held in Doha, Qatar last weekend is over and there can only be positive comments about this event. All the Grand Prix riders enjoyed their time in this magnificent city and loved the circuit and atmosphere of the race.The Super Final winner Antonio Cairoli looked solid all weekend and only a bad start in the MX1 moto stopped him from possibly taking the MX1 overall. The Italian made sure he rode to his own pace and will go to round two in Thailand with nothing his sights on the red plate.
“It has been a lot of fun,” Cairoli said. “We need to have more races like this one and it was really enjoyable to be in this country. Racing at night was something different, but I really liked it. I am so happy to come away from the first round with so many points and look forward to coming back here in 2014”
As expected Jeffrey Herlings won the MX2 overall and was the fastest MX2 rider in the Super Final. After a mixed Friday qualification the Flying Dutchman controlled his rivals with all out speed and great starts.
“It has been a crazy weekend,” Herlings said. “I came here with a slight injury and was not sure how I would do, but it worked out well. I was able to win the MX2 moto and in the Super Final I felt good, but the MX1 bikes were too fast for me. I realized I needed to just take the position I had and not push too hard and make a mistake.”
MX1 overall winner Clement Desalle once again showed his best speed. Twice battling with the best MX1 riders in the World and beating Cairoli in the MX1 moto. The Belgian will not turn his attention to Thailand where he will hope to retain the red plate.
“It is good to win the MX1 class,”Desalle said. “It does not mean too much at this time of the season. I have the red plate, but the season has just started and we have many races coming up. I ride well when I am happy and having fun and I showed that today. I always give 100%”
In three days time the FIM World Motocross Championship riders will be able to make up for average rounds in Qatar or continue what was consistent starts to their 2013 season. These three men mentioned above will no doubt be looking for victory, be it in the MX1, MX2 or Super Final races.