The inaugural Maxxis Supermotard Des European Nations, held at Alpe D’Huez in France was a huge success, with thousands of spectators literally clinging to every vantage point around the track in an attempt to cheer on their countries’ riders. Flags from all the European Nations fluttered in the breeze and Alpe D’Huez – “An Island in the Sun”, certainly lived up to its reputation as a first class venue for Supermotard racing, popular with the riders and spectators alike.

The unique event – dubbed “A Supermotard Festival”, underlined just how important great teamwork is, as the French riders clinched a historic victory by a narrow margin, despite no individual winning any of the afternoon’s 3 races. Although finishing as runners up, the Italian team had the satisfaction of winning the most races of the day and the third place German team, were delighted to have claimed the final podium position despite fearsome opposition from many other countries.

The festival featured 3 classes, SM 450, SM 650 & Open and by combining 2 classes in each of the 3 races, (e.g. SM 450/SM 650), a total of the three race results decided the winning team. The higher a team’s rider finished in a race, the lower number of points the team received and thus France, with its consistent rider’s performances scored a title-winning 20 points to claim a popular victory.

All 3 races were fantastic displays of bravery, superb riding skills and professionalism, although Italian rider Ivan Lazzarini’s virtuoso solo performances were perhaps the most noticeable of the afternoon. All 3 races also saw many riders battling for position lap after lap, but because of the unique team nature of the weekend, the crowds roared encouragement to their hero’s regardless of their actual position in the race.

Ultimately, there can only ever be one winner and although France were perhaps pre-event favourites, they fended off tough challenges in every race and are worthy winners of the title. Several European Nations returned home delighted and justifiably proud of their results and the Slovenian team in particular, had an excellent weekend, with a hard earned 7th place despite Supermotard being a relatively new discipline in Slovenia.

Overall, the Maxxis Supermotard Des European Nations has brought the speed, glamour and excitement of Supermotard to a whole new audience throughout Europe. Without taking anything away from the Superb home win for France, the real winner after this weekend is Supermotard itself. Watch out Moto GP - Supermotard is coming !