Tim Gajser led Honda HRC with a strong third-place finish in the MXGP qualification at Cordoba, while teammates Ruben Fernandez, Ferruccio Zanchi, and Valerio Lata encountered challenges including crashes. Despite this, the team remains hopeful for better outcomes in tomorrow’s motos.
Tim Gajser, representing Honda HRC, commenced the 2025 MXGP World Championships at the impressive Cordoba circuit in Argentina with a commendable third-place finish during Saturday’s qualification. He began the day optimally by recording the fastest time in free practice and following up with a second place in the timed session. Gajser capitalized on a favorable gate-pick at the start of the qualification race, quickly moving into second position. After pressuring the race leader, he encountered minor errors that allowed another rider to pass, but ultimately settled into a secure pace, finishing comfortably in third.
In contrast, fellow Honda CRF450R rider Ruben Fernandez faced challenges, securing only one point after an unfortunate crash while in fifth position. Despite this setback, he demonstrated his potential with a strong fourth-place finish in timed practice. Fernandez aims to showcase his speed and secure a better position in the upcoming GP scoring races.
Ferruccio Zanchi and Valerio Lata, also part of the Honda HRC team, experienced a difficult day with falls during the qualifying race. Lata, after a promising start, fell in the second turn, ultimately finishing 16th, which was disappointing for his debut on the Honda HRC. Zanchi navigated through the race until an off-track slip resulted in a fall, forcing his withdrawal from the race. He expressed readiness for tomorrow’s competition.
Overall, the opening of the season has presented its challenges but serves as a foundation for improvement. All four riders look forward to the two motos scheduled for tomorrow, hoping to capitalize on their experiences from the qualification round.
Quotes from the riders reflect their perspectives on the day’s performance. Gajser emphasized caution in managing a solid pace: “I had a big gap to fourth so I didn’t want to push too much… hopefully, battle for the win tomorrow.” Fernandez expressed frustration over his early tumble: “It was annoying to have that tip-over… but I still feel like I can do well tomorrow.” Lata regretted missing a potential solid result: “I’m very disappointed to have made that mistake… and I really want to start off strongly.” Zanchi noted his unfortunate fall: “…instead, I went slightly off the racetrack and landed in some mud… I will be ready for tomorrow though and motivated.”
Marcus Pereira de Freitas, HRC General Manager for MXGP, acknowledged the challenges faced at the season’s start. He reflected on the riders’ sentiments, stating, “All four guys are probably leaving the track today, not happy with their performances… I fully expect all of our riders to rise to the occasion.”
The 2025 MXGP World Championships commenced with mixed results for Honda HRC riders at the new Cordoba circuit. While Tim Gajser secured a solid third place, teammates Ruben Fernandez, Ferruccio Zanchi, and Valerio Lata had to contend with various challenges, including crashes. Nevertheless, the team remains optimistic for future races, with all four riders keen to improve their standings in tomorrow’s motos.
In summary, the opening day of the 2025 MXGP World Championships at the Cordoba circuit presented a mix of outcomes for the Honda HRC team. Tim Gajser started positively with a third-place finish, while Ruben Fernandez, Ferruccio Zanchi, and Valerio Lata faced adversities that impacted their performances. The team is determined to build on their experiences as they prepare for the upcoming races, anticipating an improved showing tomorrow.
Original Source: gatedrop.com
