Macau GP: Finn Erno Kostamo to become team boss for Austrian Julian Trummer

You can’t simply submit an entry for the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix; a rider must meet certain criteria to get the organiser’s approval. By taking part in the North West 200 and the Tourist Trophy, Julian Trummer met these criteria and received the coveted invitation, but it was a close call – he could easily have been forced to stay at home.

“It was already becoming apparent during the TT races, but by the time the Southern 100 was over at the latest, it was clear that neither I nor Smith Racing were interested in competing together in the invitational race in Macau,” said the 35-year-old Austrian, who is looking forward to becoming a father in the next few days, in an interview with SPEEDWEEK.com.

“I asked Rico Penzkofer if he could envisage organising something for me, and he immediately agreed. Shortly afterwards, Stefan Kühn got in touch to ask if I was still available for the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix, as he had an interesting deal for me. After he’d given me the details, I decided to accept his offer.”

Trummer, who is known for his loyalty to his team and sponsors, was plagued by a guilty conscience: “It’s not my style to go back on a commitment I’ve made. This time, however, I had to be selfish, and I told Rico that quite openly. He was completely understanding of my decision. I’m more than grateful to him for that.”

At the 58th edition of the race on the Guia Circuit, lined with crash barriers and stone walls, Erno Kostamo – the Finn who won in Macau in 2022 and is unable to take part in the classic race himself due to the after-effects of his serious accident at the Tourist Trophy – will be Trummer’s boss in the ‘RVS Motorsport’ team.

“Erno was a direct rival of mine for many years, so I know he leaves nothing to chance and his motorbikes are always perfectly prepared; that’s why I’m looking forward to riding one of his BMW M1000RRs in Macau. I hope to benefit from his experience. Perhaps this could also lead to a collaboration for next year. I would certainly like that.”