Motocross of Nations: Press Conference Kicks Things Off In Latvia

Shan Moore | September 26, 2014

Photo courtesy of Youthstream

Festivities are starting to get underway for this weekend’s 68th running of the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations in Kegums, Latvia.

Cool and damp, winter-like conditions dominated the area today while teams were busy sorting out their pit areas and getting their bikes off to technical control. Meanwhile, the riders were checking out the battlefield known to the locals as ‘Zelta Zirgs’ before the first ‘Media Opportunities’ of the weekend took place.

Just after lunch, the official Monster Energy athletes such as Gautier Paulin, Tommy Searle, Dean Wilson, Arnaud Tonus, and a few others attended the Monster Energy media opportunity, which took place in the Monster Energy rig. It was a unique opportunity for the press to get last minute interviews, videos and pictures with the starts before race day cracks on and nerves creep in.

Around mid-afternoon, Youthstream President Mr. Giuseppe Luongo, FIM Europe President Dr. Wolfgang Srb and FIM/CMS Director Tony Skillington held the ‘welcome press conference’ where each of them expressed their excitement for this weekend, including MXoN rookie Jeremy Martin.

“I just have fun racing my dirtbike,” Martin said. “I have never been over seas and I get to experience here riding with a bunch of new riders and learn and have fun so it’s gonna be awesome.”

Directly after the press conference the official team presentation for the highest ranked teams took place, teeing off with the defending champions, Team Belgium. Team USA followed as last years runners up, with the 2013 bronze medalist, Team Italy being the third team to take the stage. Other teams in attendance were Team Australia, Team France, Team Great Britain, Team Germany, Team Switzerland, Team Russia and the local heroes Team Latvia.