Karlis Reisulis has finally secured for his first ever MX2 World Championship podium after a superb performance at Loket in the Czech Republic.
The factory Yamaha rider has always been highly rated in the paddock, but despite showing flashes of impressive speed, a Grand Prix podium had remained just out of reach. That all changed at Loket, where two consistent rides earned the Latvian a well-deserved place on the rostrum.
Adding to the occasion, Reisulis also found himself battling with his younger brother, Janis, throughout the day, at one stage both of them where on for the overall podium but Karlis ended up making it happen.
Reflecting on the breakthrough result, Reisulis admitted he was just as pleased with the quality of his riding as he was with finally securing a trophy.
“I feel really good. The podium is one thing but I was just happy that I could ride two good motos today. Of course, battling with my brother, it’s not easy. He was really trying hard not to let me pass. It’s nice to race with him but it was two nice motos today and I’m happy”.
Reisulis also praised the Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MX2 team for helping him find the perfect bike setup throughout the weekend.
“It was a really good weekend. My riding felt smooth, especially on Sunday, and everything came together really well. Our team’s suspension technician made the right adjustments, so a big thank you to him and the whole team. I had two solid motos with decent starts, which allowed me to ride my own pace. I felt in control and comfortable all weekend, so I’m really happy with how everything came together”.
Having shown improved form over recent rounds, Reisulis believes the podium is the reward for the progress he has been making in recent weeks.
“It’s been coming together more in the last races. I’m feeling good on the bike. I’m finally happy to get a podium. I’ve been waiting a really long time for this. Now I’m just looking forward to the next rounds as well”.
With the confidence boost of a maiden MX2 podium now behind him, Reisulis is determined to keep building momentum as the championship heads into its final stages.
“I’ll just do training, believe in myself and believe in the team. I’ll always do the best I can do. If my bike could speak to me it would after today it would say, I love you (laughs)”.
After years of showing his potential, Loket may prove to be the breakthrough weekend Reisulis has been waiting for. If he can maintain this level of confidence and consistency, there is every chance that his first MX2 podium will be the first of many.
