The Australian Grand Prix, the final round of the 2025 FIM Motocross World Championship, took place on the Darwin track in the north of the country. The track proved to be spectacular and it attracted large crowds over the weekend. Unfortunately, a violent storm on Sunday afternoon forced the organiser to cancel the second race of the MXGP Class.
15th in free practice and 18th at the end of timed practice, Ben Watson (Beta RX450) achieved a good 20th position in Saturday’s qualifying after starting close to the top 5. On Sunday however, Watson was struck by bad luck in the race: after making up ground in the early laps following a poor start, he was then forced to retire on lap 12. Ben Watson, in his 3rd season with MRT Racing Team Beta Factory, finished 14th in the final Championship Standings.
Ben Watson: “The Australian GP didn’t go as I would have liked. I felt good all weekend, but a few problems prevented me from finishing the season on a high note. It’s a shame that the second race was cancelled due to bad weather, taking away my chance to get a good result. It was an up-and-down season, marked by highs and lows. The positive thing is that I stayed injury-free. Together with the team, we always tried to fight for the best possible results. Sometimes it’s not easy, but I’ve improved compared to last season. Let’s try to continue on this path of growth.”
Tom Koch (Beta RX450) finished the timed sessions in 19th position, behind Watson. In qualifying, he managed to make-up for an unfortunate start with a comeback that allowed him to finish 19th. In Sunday’s race, which saw him get off to a better start, the German rider made a bigger impression, finishing 16th. Koch collected 108 points during the season, which allowed him to finish 21st in the Championship.
Tom Koch: “In Australia, we found a track and an environment that was new to everyone. On Saturday morning, as soon as we entered, the track was very soft, especially in some places, but the layout was fun and spectacular. In the timed sessions, I struggled to find a good lap and finished 19th. The start in qualifying was terrible, and in the first few laps, I took few risks and lost more positions. In the end, I crossed the finish line in 19th position. On Sunday, in the only race held, the start and the first ten minutes went better. After that, I lost my feeling and rhythm, but I finished 16th. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped me this season, and the MRT Racing Team Beta Factory for the opportunity they have given me.”
The FIM Motocross World Championship is now over, Beta would like to thank the riders and the MRT Team for the 2025 season. Looking forward to seeing you all again next year!
