The MXGP of Loket turned into a disappointing weekend for Lucas Coenen (Red Bull KTM De Carli), as the Belgian rider was unable to line up for any of Sunday’s championship motos due to the injury he sustained at Foxhills.
Coenen arrived in the Czech Republic determined to race despite suffering from a nerve compression injury in the left side of his hip. However, the pain remained a major issue throughout the weekend and became evident again during Saturday’s Qualifying Race, which he was unable to complete.
Following further medical assessments, KTM elected to withdraw the young Belgian from the remainder of the event as a precautionary measure, aiming to prevent the injury from worsening ahead of the upcoming rounds.
Coenen’s absence had a significant impact on the title fight. While the KTM rider was sidelined, Jeffrey Herlings (Honda HRC Petronas) took full advantage by sweeping both motos on Sunday and taking over the championship lead. The Dutchman leaves Loket with a 49-point advantage over Coenen in the MXGP standings.
The situation is made even more challenging by the schedule, as the championship heads straight to the demanding sand circuit of Lommel before the summer break, leaving little time for recovery.
After his withdrawal was confirmed, Coenen admitted his frustration at being unable to compete:
“Not much to say. I did what I could to be ready for Loket: physio, massage…but I was in pain all day. It’s tough to take. I can only hope I will feel a bit better with each day, and we can think about Lommel.”
Attention now turns to Coenen’s recovery over the coming days. His participation in Lommel remains uncertain, although both rider and team will do everything possible to be ready for one of the most important rounds of the season.
