Lucas Coenen and Camden McLellan Conquer the Spanish Sands at the MXGP of Andalucia
The 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship burst into its European leg in spectacular fashion at the MXGP of Andalucia, where Lucas Coenen and South Africa’s Camden McLellan delivered standout performances on the demanding sandy layout of the Circuito de Motocross di Almonte.
With passionate Spanish fans filling the venue and near-perfect racing conditions following earlier rain, the second round of the season provided thrilling action, dramatic moments, and historic achievements.
Coenen Dominates MXGP with Perfect Weekend
Lucas Coenen was untouchable in the premier class, delivering a flawless 1-1-1 performance across the weekend to secure his 17th career Grand Prix victory and his seventh in MXGP.
The Belgian sensation showcased exceptional speed and control on the deep sand circuit, pulling away from the field in both races. His dominant display saw him claim the red plate for the first time in his MXGP career, now leading the championship standings.
Jeffrey Herlings continued his strong start to the season, finishing second in both races for Honda HRC Petronas, while Tim Gajser powered through the pack twice to claim his first podium with Monster Energy Yamaha Factory MXGP.
MXGP Overall Top 5
- Lucas Coenen (KTM) – 50 pts
- Jeffrey Herlings (Honda) – 44 pts
- Tim Gajser (Yamaha) – 35 pts
- Maxime Renaux (Yamaha) – 33 pts
- Andrea Adamo (KTM) – 32 pts
“It was a perfect weekend where everything clicked. The red plate is an amazing feeling, but we need to stay consistent.”
Coenen reflected on his breakthrough weekend:
“Lucas was the best this weekend, no excuses. The level is really high, it’s going to be an exciting season.”
Despite pushing hard, Herlings acknowledged Coenen’s superiority:
McLellan Makes History for South Africa and Triumph
In MX2, it was a landmark moment for Camden McLellan, who secured his first-ever Grand Prix victory and delivered a historic milestone for Triumph Racing Factory Team.
The South African star combined speed, patience, and race intelligence to claim the overall win, including a commanding victory in race two. His performance also earned him the red plate, making him the championship leader heading into round three.
Teammate Guillem Farrés thrilled the home crowd with a sensational race one victory, but mechanical issues in race two denied him a shot at the overall. Meanwhile, Simon Längenfelder and Sacha Coenen completed the podium after consistent performances.
MX2 Overall Top 5
- Camden McLellan (Triumph) – 47 pts
- Simon Längenfelder (KTM) – 40 pts
- Sacha Coenen (KTM) – 36 pts
- Mathis Valin (Kawasaki) – 33 pts
- Janis Martins Reisulis (Yamaha) – 32 pts
“It’s a special weekend for me. I waited for the right moment in race two and made it count. The red plate is a nice bonus.”
McLellan was elated after his breakthrough:
Sand, Speed and Spectacle in Andalucia
The sandy Almonte circuit proved to be a true test of skill and endurance, separating the elite from the rest. Coenen’s raw pace and McLellan’s calculated brilliance highlighted the evolving competitive landscape of the 2026 season.
With Coenen now leading MXGP and McLellan topping MX2, both championships are beginning to take shape—but with many rounds still to come, the fight is far from over.
As the championship heads to Switzerland for round three, all eyes will be on whether these new leaders can maintain their momentum or if the established stars will strike back.
