Title hopes dashed: Lucas Coenen (KTM) unable to start in Lommel

Red Bull KTM factory rider Lucas Coenen got off to a good start in free practice at Lommel and even finished the session in 5th place, but his sciatica problems forced him to withdraw. The Belgian did not take part in qualifying and decided to pull out of the Grand Prix of Flanders.

Statement from KTM

“Lucas Coenen has withdrawn from the MXGP of Flanders,” KTM stated. “Following free practice, the Belgian decided to pull out of his home race and focus on his recovery.”

Title hopes dashed

Particularly bitter: this means that Lucas Coenen, who dominated half the season, has lost his chance of the MXGP World Championship title. Even before this Grand Prix, he was already 49 points behind. This deficit is set to increase massively – or even double – this weekend. Making up that many points in the remaining five events seems more than unrealistic.