Season Opener

When I think of the Grand Prix of Qatar I think of fresh air, warm weather and a really exciting feeling in the paddock. Not to mention racing that always brings something of the unknown. With just seven weeks to go before the MXGP series kicks off in the middle-east, the motocross media are starting to focus on this race.

There can be no doubt the excitement for the opening round of the FIM Motocross World Championships continues to be massive. Last year it was the entry of American legend Ryan Villopoto into the MXGP class, and this year there are a number of reasons to get excited.

Take your pick from the new breed of MX2 riders who moved up to the MXGP class, MX2 world champion Tim Gajser, Valentin Guillod, and last year’s MX2 champion Jordi Tixier. Three very solid riders, all with a great chance of doing something special in their debut season in the big bike class.

2004 MX2 world champion Ben Townley returning to race against his former rival Antonio Cairoli will be one to watch, as will the performance of defending MXGP champion Romain Febvre. All in all he racing won’t disappoint.

What makes this round of the series so special though is more than just the racing. It’s the whole experience that really gives a special feeling for the riders, mechanics, team managers, media, and Youthstream.

A race held in the middle of a desert, at night, and in temperatures that really make for an enjoyable stop for the world championships.

Lavish hotels, spotless paddock area, the organizers of this event always give 100% to make it one of the best rounds of the season. 

QMMF President Mr. Nasser Khalifa Al Attiyah has always been confident his race would be something special, and in 2016 he expects another classic.

“I am sure we make a good start to the season. I would like to congratulate Youthstream on what they have achieved with their media success of this event, and we are very proud to have the first GP again in 2016. It is amazing for us to be able to present this race to the world and we always look forward to working with Youthstream and the riders involved.”

Youthstream President Mr. Giuseppe Luongo has long been a fan of racing the FIM Motocross World Championships outside Europe, giving the sport a real world championship feel.

“This opening round of the series is very important, places like Losail, and the organizers of this event give the MXGP series a very special feel. We have managed to make motocross a worldwide sport. We have also managed to receive worldwide television coverage which is very important.”

When the riders jump from their plane at Doha airport, you can expect that the fresh air, the warm weather and the exciting circuit will give them everything they need to make this the opening round of the FIM Motocross World Championship a very special event.