Tom Vialle celebrates first overall victory for Honda HRC Petronas in Sommières

The next important preparatory event for the upcoming motocross season has been completed. The traditional race took place in southern France. Sommières Once again, a top-class field of international MXGP riders met to take another stocktaking exercise a few weeks before the start of the season.

One name in particular was the focus: Kay the WolfThe Dutchman made his debut on a 450cc Husqvarna, generating considerable anticipation beforehand. However, his appearance ended much sooner than planned. After several crashes, de Wolf had to abandon the first race and subsequently withdrew from the second. Whether an injury was the cause of his withdrawal has not yet been confirmed.

While de Wolf was eliminated early, an exciting battle developed at the top – with one man who would ultimately shape the weekend.

Coenen wins race one – Vialle is in the mix at the front

The first run opened Lucas Coenen with a strong start. The Belgian took the lead early and controlled the race confidently despite difficult track conditions. Behind him, the next rider initially took over. Pauls jonass Second place. However, a small mistake set the Latvian back, leading to an intense duel. Max Renaux seized the opportunity and ultimately secured second place.

Behind it, completed Tom Vialle the podium. The Frenchman consistently maintained his position at the front, thus laying the foundation for a strong overall result. He caused a surprise. Maxime Desprey, who finished fifth, ahead of several established MXGP riders.

In addition to de Wolf's absence, they also had to Calvin Flanders to accept a DNF.

Vialle strikes back in the second run

The picture at the front changed in the second race. This time it was Tom Vialle, who dominated the race. The Frenchman took the lead after just a few laps and quickly pulled away from the field. Lap after lap, the Honda rider extended his advantage and controlled the race with ease.

Behind him, an intense battle for the podium places developed. Max Renaux worked on Pauls jonass over and finally secured second place.

Meanwhile, a strong comeback was shown Lucas CoenenAfter a difficult start, the Belgian had to work his way forward from the midfield. However, with impressive pace, he fought his way up to third place and finished the race just a few seconds behind Renaux.

Superfinal without any major surprises

The final super final finally brought some movement to the field, although less at the top than expected.

Thibault Benistant He got off to a perfect start and took the lead early on. For a full 13 laps, the Frenchman didn't let anyone pass him. After the rather mixed results from the two races (6 and 10), he impressively demonstrated his potential in the Super Final.

Behind them lined up Tom Vialle and Lucas Coenen and completed the top three in the race. Max Renaux had to settle for fourth place.

Vialle's first overall victory on a Honda

In the overall standings, [the following] ultimately prevailed. Tom Vialle through. With third place in the first race, victory in the second race and second place in the super final, the Frenchman collected a total of 67 points – enough for the overall victory in Sommières.

For Vialle, this success is more than just a good test. It is also his first overall victory for Honda HRC Petronas – and thus an important signal in the final phase of pre-season training.

Behind him completed Lucas Coenen with 65 points and Max Renaux with 62 points, the overall podium.

A signpost for the season?

Pre-season results are never a guarantee for the season. But they often indicate who is currently in the right rhythm. And that's exactly the impression left by [player's name]. Tom Vialle this weekend. The two-time MX2 world champion seems to be getting more and more comfortable on the big machine – and is sending a clear signal just in time for the start of the new season.

In the preparation paddock, it has certainly been noted: Tom Vialle is ready to compete at the front in the MXGP class as well.