The Kawasaki Racing Team MXGP is set to field its complete roster this weekend at the sixteenth round of the FIM Motocross World Championship in Uddevalla, Sweden. With championship leader Romain Febvre joined by the returning Pauls Jonass in MXGP and Mathis Valin in MX2, the team aims to build momentum in a tightly contested 2025 season.
Pauls Jonass Makes Timely Comeback
Pauls Jonass has battled back from a shoulder injury that sidelined him since the MXGP of Germany earlier this year. Team manager Antti Pyrhonen stressed the importance of full recovery before Jonass returned to the demanding world of MXGP racing.
His preparation included intense rehab and training sessions. Last weekend, Jonass tested his form at the Balen-Keiheuvel sand race in Belgium, where he secured a podium finish. This event served as a crucial step, allowing him to gauge his physical readiness against top competitors.
Jonass expressed excitement about rejoining the series. He noted that his shoulder feels strong, and his connection with the bike has improved through recent practice. Fans can expect him to push hard in Sweden, aiming to recapture the strong form he showed before the injury.
Romain Febvre Leads the Charge
Romain Febvre enters the Swedish round as the MXGP points leader, holding a slim advantage over rivals. His consistent performances throughout 2025 have kept him at the forefront, with multiple podiums and race wins under his belt.
In the recent Balen event, Febvre traded victories with a key competitor, finishing with a win and a second place. This result boosted his confidence heading into Uddevalla. Febvre has adapted well to various track conditions this season, from sandy terrains to hard-packed surfaces.
His leadership has been vital for the team. Febvre’s experience and speed make him a favorite to extend his lead in Sweden. With the championship entering its final quarter, every point counts for the French rider.
The team’s strategy focuses on leveraging Febvre’s strengths while supporting his teammates. This balanced approach has helped Kawasaki stay competitive in a season marked by intense battles at the top.
Mathis Valin Bolsters MX2 Effort
Mathis Valin represents Kawasaki in the MX2 class, adding depth to the team’s lineup. As a young talent, Valin has shown promise with several top-five finishes this year, including strong showings in recent rounds.
Valin joined Febvre and Jonass in Portugal earlier in the season, marking his return to action after his own setbacks. His progress in MX2 has been steady, with improved starts and race pace.
In Sweden, Valin aims to challenge the front runners in his category. The revised track layout at Uddevalla could play to his strengths, especially if conditions favor aggressive riding styles.
Team Dynamics and Strategy
The full lineup reunion comes at a pivotal moment. Kawasaki expanded into MX2 for 2025, creating new opportunities for success across classes. This move has paid off with consistent results.
Team manager Pyrhonen, a former racer himself, understands the mental and physical demands. He emphasized the hard work behind Jonass’s recovery and the team’s overall preparation.
Key factors for success in Sweden include:
- Adapting to the updated Uddevalla track, which features new sections for added challenge.
- Managing rider fitness in the grueling late-season schedule.
- Capitalizing on factory support for bike setups tailored to each rider.
Championship Standings Snapshot
As the season progresses, standings remain tight. Here’s a quick look at the current MXGP and MX2 positions for Kawasaki riders:
| Rider | Class | Current Position | Points | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Romain Febvre | MXGP | 1st | 678 | Multiple race wins, consistent podiums |
| Pauls Jonass | MXGP | 8th | 345 | Strong pre-injury form, recent podium return |
| Mathis Valin | MX2 | 6th | 412 | Top-five moto finishes, steady improvement |
These figures highlight the team’s potential. Febvre’s lead is narrow, with just nine points separating him from the second-place rider. Jonass’s return could shake up the midfield battles.
Looking Ahead to Uddevalla Excitement
The Uddevalla venue, located about 100 kilometers north of Gothenburg, returns to the calendar after a brief absence. Its mix of elevation changes and technical sections will test all riders.
With Tim Gajser and other stars also back in action, the weekend promises high drama. Kawasaki’s full strength could lead to breakthrough results, especially if Jonass quickly finds his rhythm.
This round marks the start of the final push toward the season finale. Teams are fine-tuning strategies, and Kawasaki appears poised for a strong showing.
What do you think about Kawasaki’s chances in Sweden? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to fellow motocross fans.