Simon Längenfelder (KTM, P2): Changes in his set-up have paid off

The podium finish in Johannesburg marked the end of a long dry spell for defending champion Simon Längenfelder (KTM). His last podium finish had been his victory at Riola Sardo on 12 April. This was followed by six Grands Prix without a podium finish. Simon Längenfelder now seems to have overcome this phase. He perhaps still lacked a bit of intensity in South Africa, particularly in the early stages. But Simon was able to keep up with the pace of winner Guillem Farres (Triumph) over the entire race distance. That is the key takeaway, because in Montevarchi, for example, he was unable to match the pace of the top riders. He won every start but then fell back. In Johannesburg, the German looked once again like the Simon Längenfelder who clinched the World Championship title in 2025.

Gap to the top of the standings narrowed

Following his victory in the qualifying race and Sunday’s 3-2 result, Simon was able to reduce his deficit to the top of the standings (Sacha Coenen) from 62 to 51 points. He has therefore made up a total of 11 points on Sacha Coenen.

Guillem Farres is now the main rival

Although Sacha Coenen still holds the Red Plate as championship leader, it is becoming increasingly clear that it is Guillem Farres who is currently on the up. Sacha Coenen crashed in Johannesburg, once again highlighting his key weakness. It’s always a pleasure to see Sacha on the track: wild, daring and unbridled, with the throttle constantly wide open, he races around the circuit as if there were no tomorrow. He did just that in South Africa. He didn’t care that his bike lost coolant – and presumably power too – after his crash. He pitted his KTM to the limit around the circuit and was rewarded with 6th place. But the risks he takes inevitably lead to crashes and setbacks time and again. In contrast, Guillem Farres rides in a controlled manner and has his pace well under control. It remains to be seen how he’ll fare on sandy tracks like Lommel or Arnhem, but the Spaniard is undoubtedly on a roll.

Changes in his set-up

“It’s good to have rediscovered my intensity and fighting spirit this weekend,” Simon explained after the race. “I’ve made a few changes to my team,” he continued. “That seems to be paying off now, and I’m delighted about that.”

Next stop: England

The track at Matterley Basin is one of Simon’s favourites. He has won there several times. This year, however, the Grand Prix of Great Britain will take place on the old-school Foxhill circuit. “I think it’s a bit of a shame that we’re no longer racing at Matterley Basin,” says Simon. “But I’ve already seen photos of Foxhill. The track looks pretty good – quite steep in places, too. We’ll see how it rides when we’re there.” The 12th round of the Motocross World Championship continues in England on 18–19 July.