Liam Everts secured sixth overall for Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing at round 11 of the 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship, as the MXGP series returned to South Africa for the first time in 18 years.
The Belgian rider posted 6-5 finishes across Sunday’s two MX2 motos at the rebuilt Terra Topia MX circuit near Johannesburg, collecting 31 points to maintain his fifth-place position in the championship standings as the series entered its second half.
The 1,922-metre hard-pack layout presented a distinctive challenge, with its sweeping uphill start, technical rhythm sections and high-altitude conditions demanding precision and consistency throughout the weekend. Everts qualified sixth on Saturday, positioning himself well for the points-paying motos.
Race one proved challenging after a difficult opening lap dropped the Husqvarna rider outside the top 10. Maintaining composure, Everts methodically worked his way through the field to eighth before executing a decisive pass on Karlis Reisulis for sixth on lap 10. He held the position to the chequered flag, banking 15 championship points.
The second moto saw a much cleaner start place Everts inside the top five immediately. He spent much of the race locked in an intense battle with home favourite Camden McLellan, maintaining consistent pace throughout the demanding 35-minute-plus-two-lap race to cross the line fifth and add 16 points to his tally.
Teammate Kay de Wolf remained absent from the South African round as he continues rehabilitation from the ankle injury sustained at the MXGP of Italy. The Dutchman, currently ninth in the MXGP standings with 273 points, is working alongside team medical staff as preparations continue for his return to racing.
“South Africa was a unique challenge and I really enjoyed racing here,” Everts said. “The altitude definitely makes it tougher physically, and the track changed a lot throughout the weekend, so consistency was important. We came away with another solid points haul, which keeps us moving in the right direction in the championship.”
Guillem Farres dominated the MX2 class with 1-1 finishes for Triumph, whilst Lucas Coenen swept both MXGP motos aboard his KTM to extend his championship lead over Jeffrey Herlings.
The 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship now heads to the Foxhills circuit in Great Britain for round 12 on 19 July. The iconic venue returns to the MXGP calendar for the first time in 26 years, with its natural hillside layout and steep elevation changes promising another demanding test.
Everts sits fifth in the MX2 standings with 433 points, 85 behind championship leader Sacha Coenen on 518 points.
Photo: Husqvarna Media
