Slovenia don’t traditionally send a team to the Motocross des Nations when the event takes place on American soil, primarily due to the significant financial burden that comes with the long trip. However, that stance could be set to change in 2025, with the Federation making early plans to attend this year’s edition at Ironman Raceway.
Speaking GateDrop.com, Jan Pancar revealed that discussions took place before the season started and the intention was clear: Slovenia would be back on the gate—provided that Tim Gajser is fit to race.
“Actually, at the beginning of the season, we talked with the Federation, and they said we will go, but I don’t know how Tim’s rehab and stuff will go. If Tim is not going to race, then we don’t go, because I think it’s a waste of money,” Pancar admitted.
“If Tim’s back, I mean, it’s like 90% we go, so it would be a great experience, you know, I’ve never been to the USA, so even for me it would be really nice. I would look forward to it.”
Gajser, who is currently recovering from injury, is expected to return to racing around August. While the injury setback complicates Slovenia’s Nations plans, the HRC Honda rider isn’t in the running for the MXGP World Championship this year. That means Ironman could provide a fresh target and extra motivation to end his season on a high – just like last year.
One downside to the Motocross des Nations being held in the USA so frequently is that smaller European nations often struggle to fund a team, which takes away some of the diversity the event is known for. But as arguably the biggest race of the year, it deserves to see the best riders from across the globe behind the gate.
It would also be a nice opportunity for Jan Pancar to race in America for the first time to show America his privateer speed.
Here’s hoping Slovenia, with a fit Tim Gajser, makes the trip Stateside for 2025.
