The MXGP of Portugal was brutal. An absolute mudfest. Extreme weather conditions outright battered Agueda’s distinctive orange soil, making the event more a battle of survival, than a true-blue Grand Prix. However, despite the insane ruts and treacherous conditions, the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team shone with Rick Elzinga celebrating his first-ever MX2 podium finish, and Thibault Benistant securing his second consecutive piece of podium silverware in 2024.
At the same time, the premier class ended with mixed emotions. Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP’s new recruit, Andrea Bonacorsi, was the highlight of the weekend, with the young rookie making an impressive MXGP-class debut aboard a works YZ450FM while Calvin Vlaanderen struggled to get comfortable in the wet, rough and rutty conditions.
Image: Yamaha MXGP
