A totally dominant display in the sand dunes of Lommel by former multiple champions Marvin Vanluchene and Ben van den Bogaart resulted in a twenty-five-point lead for them over Killian and Evan Prunier. They carry that lead to Strassbessenbach, a track on which they took overall victory two years ago. By the same token, the French brothers are also strong on the German hillside venue, finishing runners-up to Vanluchene on that occasion, and going one better with overall victory last year.
Both teams know full well that reliability and consistency is key. One mechanical failure at this point in the season could end the dreams for another year.
Vanluchene is thoroughly focussed, assisted by the close bond he has with his 2018 title winning partner, making their combined skills formidable.
Team Prunier has spectacular speed and agility on fast tracks, but lack the special skill needed to compete on level terms in sandy conditions. That is improving however, so they need to capitalise on hard going when they can before the sandy conditions return.
We can also expect a good showing from third placed Tim Prummer and Patrick Schneider on home ground, before what is always a very large and enthusiastic crowd. The same is true of Daniel and Bruno Lielbardis from Latvia who celebrate their twentieth birthday this month. They are strong on the Strassbessenbach circuit, and whilst they are not in championship contention, will be out to prove they have what it takes.
Holding fourth spot, Britons Brett Wilkinson and Joe Millard have lost ground having had a couple of mechanical issues costing them dear. Currently twenty-two points adrift of Prummer they are fighters however, and for Brett, nothing is over until it’s over.
Defending champion Koen Hermans has not fulfilled expectations this season for any number of reasons, but with passenger Dion Rietman, now finds himself in seventh spot, some sixteen points behind Tim and Sem Leferink, former race winners at the venue. They in turn are a single point behind Davy Sanders/Jens Vincent who are also having a mixed season in terms of luck.
There will be a large turnout on and off track for this annual festival of Grand Prix Sidecar Motocross, with a carnival atmosphere and brilliantly spectacular racing. The charge up the hill from the gate at Strassbessenbach is always a memorable sight. This will be a great weekend in Germany with Saturday Qualifying and Sunday races as they happen with full commentary, both days on FIM-MOTO.TV Live Stream. Better still, all details are here on the website.
Keep abreast of all latest and other news as it becomes available on www.fimsidecarcross.com along with all our social media outlets.
From Barry Nutley
