For Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Max Nagl the 2016 MXoN ended prematurely after the German suffered a heavy fall during his qualifying moto on Saturday.
Thankfully avoiding any serious injury Nagl decided not to contest Sunday’s final motos.
“Wrapping up the 2016 MXGP season with third overall I was really looking forward to this year’s Motocross of Nations,” said a disappointed Nagl. “Unfortunately, my run was cut short after a crash in Saturday’s qualifying moto. It all happened fast. I was coming through the pack and just before the finish line I chose a different line, hit a muddy spot and crashed.
“The pain in my back was so intense we decided to sit out the rest of the event. The pressure from the championship was off so I knew I could battle for race wins here at the Nations. To be honest I’m a bit disappointed I didn’t manage to show what I could do on Sunday. I’m also sorry I couldn’t battle for Team Germany. Luckily we avoided any major injury so soon I’ll be able to get back to racing and my preparations for 2017.”
Great Britain’s Max Anstie put last year’s nightmare Nations behind him and ended his time aboard Husqvarna’s FC 250. And despite suffering two mediocre starts Anstie collected 18/22 results to help Team Great Britain earn seventh overall.
“It was nice to take part at the Motocross of Nations this year,” said Anstie. “Racing on the same track with the guys on the 450s makes the starts crucially important. To be honest I was a bit nervous coming into the final motos as I didn’t know exactly what to expect. I didn’t manage to get a good start in either of my two motos and that made things a lot harder for me. I did my best to help Team Great Britain but it just wasn’t meant to be. It’s been a long season of racing and I’m really looking forward to making a new start in 2017. Next year I will be racing Husqvarna’s FC 450 machine in the MXGP class. It’s a new challenge that I’m really looking forward to.”
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing riders will sign off on their 2016 season by taking part at the first edition of the SMX Riders and Manufacturers Cup on October 8 in Germany.
