As a lifelong motorcyclist, my second passion—photography—has always been a way to capture the world of two wheels from a unique perspective. So, when I won a contest organized by Shoot Magazine to attend and photograph the Motocross of Nations 2024 (MXoN) in the UK, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss.
The MXoN, often called the “Olympics of Motocross,” is the pinnacle of the sport. Teams from around the globe compete not just for individual glory but for their countries, with fans traveling far and wide to cheer on their national heroes. This year’s event, held at the legendary Matterley Basin, lived up to its reputation as the ultimate showcase of motocross talent, teamwork, and passion.
Standing trackside at Matterley Basin, the excitement was palpable. The venue was buzzing with energy as fans draped in flags cheered their riders. The track itself was a masterpiece—steep hills, tight corners, and sections of deep, rutted mud created a test of both rider skill and machine durability. Rain in the days leading up to the event added an extra layer of challenge, turning certain sections into treacherous mud pits.
The starts were pure adrenaline. Watching the gates drop and riders surge forward in a cloud of dirt, all vying for position into the first corner, was an unforgettable experience. Every moto brought its share of daring passes, dramatic crashes, and moments of brilliance.
This year, Team Australia made history by winning their first-ever Chamberlain Trophy, edging out fierce competition from the United States and Netherlands, who finished second and third, respectively. Australia’s consistency across all motos was the key to their triumph.
Belgium, a country with a deep motocross legacy, entered the competition with high hopes. Their team consisted of:
- Brent Van Doninck in the MXGP class
- Lucas Coenen in the MX2 class
- Jago Geerts in the Open class
While the team faced several challenges throughout the weekend, they gave their all on the track. Brent Van Doninck had a strong start with a 14th-place finish in the first moto but struggled in the second moto, ending 39th.
Lucas Coenen, Belgium’s rising star, impressed with his raw talent and determination, building on an incredible season where he dominated several Grand Prix events. He held his own in the fiercely competitive MX2 class, showcasing the future of Belgian motocross.
Jago Geerts, competing in the Open class, brought his vast experience to the team, scoring valuable points and demonstrating why he remains one of Belgium’s top riders.
Despite not making it to the podium, the Belgian team’s perseverance and spirit were evident, and their experience this year will undoubtedly fuel their future ambitions.
The Motocross of Nations 2024 was more than just a race—it was a celebration of everything that makes motocross great: the roar of the engines, the grit of the riders, and the camaraderie among fans and competitors.
For me, the event was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to combine my love for motorcycles with my passion for photography. Experiencing the thrill of motocross at this level, capturing its essence through my lens, and seeing the world’s best riders in action was unforgettable.
Whether you’re a casual fan or a devoted enthusiast, the MXoN is an event that reminds us why motocross continues to inspire and unite riders and fans across the globe.