The 2024 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship came to a thrilling conclusion at the 24MX Hixpania Hard Enduro in Aguilar de Campoo, Spain. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Manuel Lettenbichler secured his third consecutive world title, while Billy Bolt from Husqvarna Factory Racing took the victory in the final round.
As the day kicked off with excitement and anticipation, Lettenbichler entered the race with a 16-point lead. However, fierce competition from Wade Young and Mario Roman kept the pressure high throughout the event. Bolt, the top qualifier, set the pace in challenging wet conditions, showcasing exceptional skill and determination as he led the pack during the two-hour El Camino Perdido race.
Despite facing a heavy crash that left him nursing an injured ankle, Lettenbichler maintained his composure, finishing in third place to clinch the championship title. His perseverance paid off, making him a celebrated figure in the Hard Enduro community.
In the Junior category, Mitch Brightmore from TTR Squadra Corse triumphed, finishing sixth in the main race and earning the 2024 FIM Hard Enduro Junior World Championship title.
Noteworthy Events and Highlights
The excitement of the Hixpania event wasn’t limited to Lettenbichler’s victory. The race featured steep climbs, rocky terrains, and technical challenges that tested the riders’ limits. Here are some key highlights from the event:
- Billy Bolt expressed his happiness, stating, “I knew I had to stay in the fight in the early laps… I’m so happy to have made it happen today.”
- Mario Roman, finishing in a strong second place, acknowledged the difficulties of the race while congratulating both Bolt and Lettenbichler on their achievements.
- The event was not just a showcase of talent but also highlighted the growth of Hard Enduro racing, especially with Mitch Brightmore’s impressive performance.
To relive the action, check out the video highlights of the 24MX Hixpania Hard Enduro:
- 24MX Hixpania Hard Enduro Highlights
Watch top Hard Enduro riders tackle Spain’s toughest terrain for ultimate glory. - Best of Bolton – 24MX Hixpania Hard Enduro
Follow extreme enduro rider Paul Bolton as he competes alongside other racers in this challenging event.
Women in Hard Enduro
In addition to the thrilling championship finale, the FIM has been making strides to promote women’s participation in the sport. At the recent Sea to Sky Hard Enduro, Kirsten Landman earned the Women’s Hard Enduro Performance Award, showcasing the growing recognition of female talent in extreme racing.
Looking Ahead
As the FIM Hard Enduro World Championship wraps up for the season, the excitement doesn’t stop here. Fans eagerly await the next series of events that will showcase the continued evolution of this exhilarating sport.
