The 2023 Paulo Duarte FIM EnduroGP World Championship’s penultimate round commenced with the AKRAPOVIC Super Test taking center stage on Friday evening in Valpacos, Portugal. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Josep Garcia showcased his prowess by recording an impressively fast time, securing the top position in the classification.
CH Racing Sherco’s Zach Pichon closely followed Garcia, finishing just over half a second behind the Spaniard, securing the second spot. GASGAS Factory Racing’s Andrea Verona rounded out the top three with the third quickest time.
The event in Valpacos was marked by intense competition under the floodlights. After the summer break, the championship roared back to life, and it was evident that Garcia, who had previously suffered an injury in round five, was eager to set the pace for the weekend’s races.
French rider Zach Pichon, representing Sherco, was not far behind Garcia, missing the top spot by a mere half-second. The competition was tight, with Italy’s Andrea Verona (GASGAS) and Samuele Bernardini (Honda) finishing third and fourth, respectively, separated by less than two-tenths of a second.
Beta Factory Racing’s Brad Freeman, who had a setback in round five in Slovakia, made a strong comeback, securing the fifth position. Freeman’s performance indicates his determination to continue his battle for the EnduroGP title.
GALFER FIM Junior Enduro World Championship’s current leader, Jed Etchells of Fantic, began his race on a high note, finishing sixth overall for the night.
Results: Round 6 – AKRAPOVIC Super Test:
- Josep Garcia (KTM) – 1:28.17
- Zach Pichon (Sherco) – 1:28:76
- Andrea Verona (GASGAS) – 1:29.46
- Samuele Bernardini (Honda) – 1:29.62
- Brad Freeman (Beta) – 1:30.82
- Jed Etchells (Fantic) – 1:31.03
- Matteo Pavoni (TM) – 1:31.20
- Steve Holcombe (Beta) – 1:31.48
- Sergio Navarro (Husqvarna) – 1:31.58
- Albert Fontova (GASGAS) – 1:31.64
The EnduroGP Portugal promises more thrilling action in the upcoming days, and fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the outcomes of the subsequent rounds.