Round four of the FIM Motocross World Championship begins this weekend at the challenging Riola Sardo circuit; the sandy terrain and warm weather are just a few of the many challenging variables when racing in Sardinia. Let’s take a look at what British riders will be lining up at Riola Sardo.
Words by Edward Heather – Feature Image courtesy of Lucy Barker
In the MXGP class, MRT Racing Team Beta’s Ben Watson will be looking to build on his strong performance at the MXGP of Europe. The #919 is certainly comfortable in deep sand conditions, notably picking up his first MX2 victory in Lommel back in 2020. Watson has struggled to get out of the gate to start this season; therefore, his results may not be a true reflection of how he has ridden to begin 2025.
The Lexa MX Team has both Josh Gilbert and John Adamson lining up this weekend. Gilbert is fresh off his podium finish at the opening round of the British Championship at Hawkstone Park, and Adamson is returning to the Grand Prix scene after tweaking his knee in Cozar. Keep an eye out for the two Hondas as they look to build on the speed the pair have shown in Britain.
Chambers Racing’s Adam Sterry also heads into Sardinia fresh off a podium finish at Hawkstone Park. No doubt, Sterry will be entering this weekend with added confidence after the speed he displayed at the British Championship opener.
Jamie Keith returns in the EMX125cc class to make his long-awaited debut for the JK Racing Yamaha team this weekend, after breaking his collarbone during free practice in the tough conditions in Cozar. The young Brit undoubtedly has the speed to contend at the front of the EMX125 class; however, the broken collarbone required surgery, so it is unknown if Keith will have the strength needed to maintain race pace throughout the weekend.
Last but certainly not least, with the WMX championship kicking off in Sardinia, we have one British representative gearing up to battle among the fastest women in Europe: Lucy Barker. 2025 marks Barker’s third year competing in the WMX class, and she finished the 2024 championship in 14th place. Keep an eye out for the #310 this weekend, who has had her fair share of challenges heading into the season, as a main sponsor withdrew their support a couple of weeks ago.
