The Dutch Masters season kicks off this Monday, April 6 — yes, on a Monday — with its opening round in Heerde, featuring a strong lineup of World Championship riders.
Before the MXGP paddock returns to action next weekend in Riola Sardo, several top riders have opted to log valuable sand time and fine-tune their form. Heerde marks the first of four rounds on this year’s Dutch Masters calendar and provides the perfect setting to build momentum on one of the most demanding surfaces in motocross.
Among the headliners is Jeffrey Herlings, who faces a busy start to the week. The Dutchman will first line up on Sunday alongside Oriol Oliver at the second round of the ACU British Championship in Preston Docks, before heading to Heerde.
Reigning champion Romain Febvre begins his title defense with the intention of contesting all rounds this season. He will be joined by his teammate Pauls Jonass, while another rider to watch is Kay de Wolf, who continues to gain experience and race time on the 450.
The entry list also features notable names such as Tom Vialle, Calvin Vlaanderen, Brent Van Doninck, Alberto Forato, and Glenn Coldenhoff, who will compete with his own private team ahead of his debut in Brazil next week.
In the 250 class, defending champion Cas Valk faces strong competition from riders like Mathis Valin, Liam Everts, and brothers Karlis and Janis Reisulis. Other contenders to keep an eye on include Noel Zanocz, Kay Karssemakers, Aaron Katona, and Jarne Bervoets.
All results and updates from the event will be available in this article on race day.
