Jasikonis cites Husqvarna ‘package’ as reason for new star status

A first moto victory, a podium result and 3 rd position in the MXGP FIM World
Championship standings and all achieved with a captivating and aggressive style:
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna IceOne’s Arminas Jasikonis accelerated his status as the
category’s most electrifying talent through the three Grands Prix in Latvia.

The 22-year old (23 in September) has had three interrupted seasons in MXGP with
three different brands and has dealt with injury and a sharp learning curve. His
potential was recognised by both Husqvarna and IceOne despite an underwhelming
first term with the team in 2019 and where he was outshone by rookie Pauls Jonass.
Since ‘AJ’ signed a 2021 deal with Antti Pyrhonen’s crew and remained healthy he has
gained more and more confidence.

“I have known for a long time that I can ride but I needed everything to come together
in a package,” he admitted. “It has been hard work.”
At the Grand Prix of Riga and the mid-week fixture at Kegums Jasikonis hit his career-
peak to-date with his second moto pursuit of race leader Jeffrey Herlings. The
Dutchman made a mistake and crashed with two laps to go and the Lithuanian was
free to take the chequered flag.

“It was mixed emotions,” he recalls. “It was doing pretty good already but then I had a
plan for the last laps to try and push Jeffrey. He then made a mistake and I was quite
shocked. I had the lead and it was not easy. Riding in P2 is one thing but then going to
the lead was a different thing mentally. Physically I know I am strong, but I felt pressure
then and it made me ride quite tight, but we made it! I’m sure next time it will already be
a bit easier.”

Jasikonis bagged his first trophy of the week in the last Kegums outing, with a 2-3
elevating him to second place overall and his second champagne bottle for Husqvarna
this season. It might not be the last.

Words: Adam Wheeler

Image: Niek Kamper