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Valin Battles Through Big Crash for Ninth Overall in Arnhem
Kawasaki Racing Team MX2’s Mathis Valin showed grit and determination at the rugged sand track of Arnhem, Netherlands, finishing ninth overall in the Dutch round of the FIM World MX2 Motocross Championship despite a heavy crash in Moto 2.
In the opening moto, Valin was squeezed off the start by the defending champion, forcing him to lose momentum out of the gate. The French teenager quickly adapted, cutting under the pack in Turn 1 to emerge in 11th. From lap five onward, he began moving forward, engaging in a strong battle with the current points leader. The pair charged through the field, climbing to sixth and seventh with impressive passes. Demonstrating creative line choices and confidence railing the outside berms, Valin kept the pressure on and capitalized on a mistake from his rival on the final lap to secure sixth.
Another top-six finish looked promising in Moto 2, as Valin quickly slotted into the lead group. However, a big crash at the end of the wave section on lap seven left him winded and off the pace for 30 seconds. Rejoining in 15th, he immediately began picking off positions, reaching 14th within four laps. Despite having lost the peak of his helmet and contending with a damaged radiator shroud from the crash, he continued to close in on the group ahead. Twelfth looked within reach, but the mechanical issue ultimately forced him to settle for 14th in the moto and ninth overall for the day. He remains solidly in 10th place in the championship standings.
Mathis Valin:
"I got blocked at the start of the first race and through the first few laps, but I was able to show my speed in the last 15 minutes to finish P6. I had a really strong start in the second moto and felt good again running sixth, but I made a mistake and had a big crash. I hit my head, but I’m glad I could still finish the race."