The 2024 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship concluded with a thrilling showdown at the 24MX Hixpania Hard Enduro in Spain. Set against a backdrop of rugged terrain and wet conditions, the finale saw Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Manuel Lettenbichler secure his third consecutive world title. Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Billy Bolt took the victory for the event, with notable performances from South African riders Wade Young and Mathew Green, who battled challenging weather and fierce competition.
Wade Young: A Remarkable Season with Vice-Champion Finish
Wade Young, riding for GASGAS, entered the finale with determination, knowing he held second in the championship standings. From the start of the multi-lap El Camino Perdido main event, Young was positioned to chase down his rivals, despite the heavy rain making the course slick and unpredictable. Although Bolt’s early lead proved insurmountable, Young continued to push through, showing both skill and endurance.
While the race conditions affected Young’s ability to keep pace with Sherco Factory Racing’s Mario Roman, he secured a strong fifth-place finish. This result allowed Young to cement his place as the vice-champion of the 2024 season.
“This year was a whole reset. New bike, my own team, and a lot of learning to be done. At times I struggled with consistency, but it’s something I can work on for next year.”
Reflecting on his year, Young expressed gratitude for his journey, saying,
His success as vice-champion is a testament to his adaptability and relentless spirit.
Mathew Green: A Promising Ride in Tough Conditions
Mathew Green, representing KTM, tackled the Hixpania Hard Enduro with grit and determination, finishing the challenging race in ninth place. As rain and mud tested the riders’ skills, Green’s performance was a display of endurance and tactical riding. Completing four laps with a time of 2:17:29.24, he showcased his growth and potential in the world of hard enduro, keeping up with seasoned international competitors.
An Exciting Finish to the Championship
The 24MX Hixpania Hard Enduro provided an exciting final chapter to the 2024 season, with each rider giving their all in the rugged Spanish landscape. Manuel Lettenbichler’s world title victory and Mitch Brightmore’s Junior title win capped a memorable season, while Billy Bolt’s performance at Hixpania secured his hard-fought event victory.
As the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship draws to a close, both Young and Green have much to celebrate. For Young, his vice-champion status signals a successful year and lays the foundation for even stronger performances in the future. Green, meanwhile, has proven his potential, positioning himself as a promising talent in the hard enduro scene.
Provisional Results: Round 7
El Camino Perdido
1. Billy Bolt (Husqvarna) 5 laps, 2:08:55.93
2. Mario Roman (Sherco) 5 laps, 2:15:43.89
3. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM) 5 laps, 2:25:35.65
4. Graham Jarvis (Husqvarna) 5 laps, 2:35:51.34
5. Wade Young (GASGAS) 5 laps, 2:38:29.98
6. Mitch Brightmore (Husqvarna) 4 laps, 2:00:09.73
7. Ashton Brightmore (Husqvarna) 4 laps, 2:04:30.05
8. Teodor Kabakchiev (Sherco) 4 laps, 2:13:32.30
9. Matthew Green (KTM) 4 laps, 2:17:29.24
10. Marc Riba (KTM) 4 laps, 2:23:52.11
Provisional Championship Standings (After round seven)
1. Manuel Lettenbichler (KTM) 127pts
2. Wade Young (GASGAS) 109pts
3. Mario Roman (Sherco) 108pts
4. Teodor Kabakchiev (Sherco) 91pts
5. Mitch Brightmore (Husqvarna) 79pts
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