
MXGP found more heat at the brand new circuit of Afyon for the Grand Prix of Turkey and the near 35 degree temperatures was matched by some intense speed and scenes across the hard-pack as the FIM World Championship entertained for the eighteenth time this year.
Quick, spectacular and inviting for passes and pace, Afyon was the epitome of modern relentless motocross racing and rewarded hot starts and a brave throttle hand. Jeffrey Herlings and Thomas Covington ran out winners in the two classes despite the efforts of Tim Gajser and Pauls Jonass to make life extra sweaty.
The price of misfortune on such a pacey and vast layout was paid by Monster Energy Yamaha’s Romain Febvre on Saturday after a heavy crash saw the Frenchman counted out - and also for the weekend - with a concussion. Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Clement Desalle knew when to push and when to guard in the two steamy motos on Sunday. The experienced Belgian clocked a 4-3 scorecard (and a holeshot) to make his third consecutive podium appearance and holds the distinction of shining the most silverware this season after the KTM duo of Herlings and Tony Cairoli with eight appearances on the rostrum steps.