Catalan King Toni Bou lines up 30th title

Record-breaking 28-time FIM Trial World Champion Toni Bou (Repsol Honda) didn’t just retain his X-Trial and TrialGP crowns this year – he was also named Catalan Sportsman of the Year.

“It’s for sure a good feeling because in Catalonia it is always very difficult to win some title like this,” he said. “It’s normally one that a footballer or MotoGP rider would win. It’s very difficult to arrive in this position and I am very happy.”

The 34-year-old has been world champion indoors and out for the last 14 years in a row, an incredible achievement that’s down to his unparalleled work ethic – plus, of course, an almost supernatural serving of natural talent.

“After 14 years it is every year more difficult for me but I think I will continue to explore the limits and try my best. My goal next year is to try to ride to 30 [world titles] because it is an incredible number and I have big motivation for this.”

Bou, who had to deal with a long-standing shoulder injury in 2020, was beaten on two of this year’s points-paying days – his first TrialGP defeats since June 2018 – but came back strongly to sweep the final three days of competition.

“Finally, in the last races I ride my best with the feeling again like the indoor season and I won these two championships. I think it’s very special for me this season. Now it is time to recover and my sensation is much better than before.”

Bou was joined in a Honda-organised Zoom conversation by Japanese veteran Takahisa Fujinami. The 40-year-old, who will team up with Bou for the 15th straight season in 2021, starts his 26th consecutive TrialGP campaign next year.

“I think most important is I love trials,” said Fujigas when asked for the secret of his longevity. “Every day I practice and never get bored. Yeah, I make 25 seasons already but I still think like a young boy and still have good motivation. I still enjoy the practice. I’m not thinking of retiring.”