MXGP of Netherlands Preview: Season Showdown at Arnhem
ARNHEM, Netherlands – The 2025 FIM Motocross World Championships enter a critical phase with Round 17, the MXGP of Netherlands, this weekend at the Motorsport Park Gelderland Midden. This is the venue’s third hosting of the event and is expected to attract a significant crowd, with local heroes eager to perform on home soil.
Championship Standings and Context
In MXGP, Romain Febvre of Kawasaki Racing Team holds a 41-point lead over Red Bull KTM’s Lucas Coenen, following a dominant performance in Sweden where Febvre earned his first-ever maximum 60-point weekend. The seasoned Febvre is aiming for his 16th podium of the season, boasting a previous overall win at Arnhem.
Coenen, despite a disappointing outing last week, has been formidable in Arnhem historically, winning both the Qualifying Race and the second race last year. His aggressive riding style, combined with the absence of pressure, may favor his chances this weekend.
Dutch competitors Glenn Coldenhoff (Fantic Factory Racing) and Calvin Vlaanderen (Monster Energy Yamaha) are also in contention, currently placed third and fifth in the standings. Both are hungry for their first GP win on home soil, with Coldenhoff looking to defend a 70-point margin in the championship chase.
MX2 Championship Dynamics
In the MX2 category, Red Bull KTM’s Simon Längenfelder regained the overall lead with a recent victory, pushing his gap to 40 points over reigning champion Kay de Wolf of Nestaan Husqvarna. De Wolf will ride with his red plate for the first time in front of his home fans, adding excitement to the contest.
Local riders such as Cas Valk, Rick Elzinga, and Jens Walvoort aim to break into the top standings, reinforcing the home-grown challenge.
FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship
The second half of the FIM Women’s Motocross season resumes, featuring a tight points battle between current leader Lotte Van Drunen and six-time champion Kiara Fontanesi, just six points behind. With Van Drunen previously unbeaten in Arnhem and Fontanesi struggling for form at this venue, the stage is set for an intense showdown.
EMX250 Update
The EMX250 Championship is heating up, with Janis Reisulis of Team VHR VRT Yamaha leading by just 27 points. His main challenger, Hungary’s Noel Zanocz, recently took a win in Uddevalla, indicating potential for change in the standings as the series nears its conclusion.
Final Thoughts
The MXGP of Netherlands promises a challenging sandy terrain for competitors. With a passionate local crowd, fierce rivalries, and the excitement of a potential home victory, this event is one not to miss. As the series progresses, each race becomes more critical in the championship battle across all classes.
