Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s Calvin Vlaanderen fought hard for a fine third overall at the MXGP of West Nusa Tenggara. Fighting through the field in both races for two fourth-place finishes, Vlaanderen’s impressive performance was rewarded with a trip to the overall podium for the first time this year.
Words | Press release
Vlaanderen started Race One inside the top five before a small mistake leaving the first turn relegated him downfield. From there, a hard charge through the pack saw him quickly move into sixth by the end of lap one before he passed Bonacorsi for fifth one lap later. As the race neared its conclusion, the South African came out on top of an intense battle with Jeremy Seewer for fourth, setting him up nicely for a place on the overall podium.
In Race Two, Vlaanderen started up front and began challenging the leaders. However, a small tip-over in a heavily watered corner dropped him from fourth to seventh. Remaining calm, the number 10 then set about working his way towards the front of the field, and by mid-race, he was back into fourth. Knowing that fourth would secure him his first overall podium result of the year, Vlaanderen maintained his high pace and position to cross the finish line and confirm his place on the rostrum. As the 2024 campaign moves into its second half, Vlaanderen remains fourth in the MXGP Championship Standings.
I’m so happy! It’s been a long two years since I was on the podium, and it’s taken a lot of work and sacrifices to get back up here. So, I want to say a huge thanks to the whole team and everyone around me. I’ve been close to the podium a few times this year but today I felt really good. To really battle with the front guys though, I need better starts. With the team we’ve been working hard on them, and they’ve improved a lot, but I need to be getting holeshots or at least be in the top three. Overall, I’m super-stoked to be on the box and today has been great for my confidence.“
