KTM Motocross Racing Team’s Kirk Gibbs believes the 2017 Australian squad that included himself, Dean Ferris (CDR Yamaha) and Hunter Lawrence (Suzuki World MX2) have the potential to podium at the Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) after a promising performance at Matterley Basin in Great Britain.

Gibbs shone in his debut appearance at the prestigious event, racing to 5-19 results for sixth overall in the Open division, assisting Team Australia to sixth in the Nations standings.

“It was obviously something that I’ve wanted to do for a long time and it was all it was hyped up to be,” Gibbs reflected. “I loved every minute of it! The atmosphere was crazy and the track couldn’t have been any better on Saturday, but there was a down-pour that night.

“The track was muddy on Sunday morning, the weather was misty and it rained all day, but it was still ride-able and still amazing. I’m really happy with the way I rode and although there were a couple of little things I could have done better.

“Overall for my first Nations I’m really happy and hope to go again in the future. With a team similar to what we had or even the same three guys, I believe we have the potential to podium together.”

MX2 contender Lawrence was the star of the event, putting in two thrilling performances that saw him claim the overall victory in the MX2 category, as dual Australian motocross champion Ferris endured a challenging weekend to end up 10th overall in the premier MXGP class.