Gajser – Looking for Victory

HRC rider Tim Gajser heads to Portugal this weekend to try and regain the form that made him one of the most feared men in the sport in 2015 and 2016. Injuries have slowed his progress in recent weeks, but the 2015 MX2 champion, and 2016 MXGP champion will want to join Antonio Cairoli and Jeffrey Herlings in the battle for GP victories.

Having not raced at the Agueda circuit for some time, the Slovenian will look for the same type of facility that he enjoyed five years ago when he last visited Portugal.

“I last raced in Portugal in 2012 when I was riding the 125 so I know how the ground is there but I am not sure if they are going to change the track that much or not. From what I remember It is a really nice track, I like that it is technical. I am going to have some time on the bike this week before heading into the race which will be helpful in getting me back on track. The hard work starts again now, I can see I am not on the same fitness level as I was before and I want to get back there as quickly as possible.”

Of course last weekend he made his return to the MXGP scene, and claimed a very strong qualification result.

“I was actually quite satisfied (with my qualification), quite happy with how today went because I haven’t been able to train in the sand since I raced at Kegums. I just came here and thought I would give it my best shot. I was a bit stiff today as it has been such a long time since I rode in the sand but then I began feeling better and better with every lap. I had a good start in the qualification race and I got fifth overall. I was really looking forward to racing Sunday.”

Sunday was always going to be tough. Down on training due to his injury, the hot conditions made his life a nightmare, but still he showed some signs of the Tim Gajser we all know.

“Coming to Italy, I knew would be tough this weekend because I haven’t had any training on a sand track and I also haven’t been able to physically train either. Today was the fourth time on the bike since my injury. I am a little bit disappointed with finishing 10th and 11th today. In the first race, I know I had good speed and I was riding in-front but then I pushed a little bit too much and lost all my energy. I didn’t finish the race the same way I had been riding. In the second race, I then crashed twice and I did come back but still it is not where I need to finish. Now I need to get fit and get back to where I know I should be.”

Now into Agueda and the red clay of one of the nicest circuits on the calendar.

Bavo Swijgers images