2016 MXGP of Argentina

The 2016 MXGP of Argentina was the fourth round of the [2016 FIM Motocross World Championship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2016_FIM_Motocross_World_Championship), part of the annual international motocross racing series sanctioned by the [Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%A9d%C3%A9ration_Internationale_de_Motocyclisme). The event took place from 9–10 April 2016 at the [Neuquén track](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuqu%C3%A9n) in the Patagonian region of Argentina. Both the premier MXGP and second-tier MX2 categories held their fourth rounds during this event, offering a critical opportunity for riders to gain championship points.

Venue: Neuquén Track, Patagonia

The Neuquén track is located in the [Neuquén Province](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuqu%C3%A9n_Province), part of Argentina's scenic Patagonia region. Known for its volcanic soil, natural elevation changes, and technical layout, the Neuquén circuit is renowned for challenging riders with its unpredictable conditions. Its scenic backdrop of rugged mountains and forested areas make it one of the most visually striking tracks in the championship.

The combination of high-speed straights, sharp corners, and technical jumps requires a high level of skill, while the softer, sandy surface makes the track particularly demanding, leading to frequent changes in terrain grip over the race weekend.

Event Highlights:

The 2016 MXGP of Argentina saw intense competition in both the MXGP and MX2 classes. Riders had to deal with the ever-changing weather conditions, typical of Patagonia, which included rain showers that made the track even more difficult to navigate.

MXGP Class:

The MXGP class featured top international motocross athletes, including reigning champion **Romain Febvre, the 2015 FIM Motocross World Champion, as well as Tim Gajser, a rising star in the series. Antonio Cairoli, one of the most decorated motocross riders in the history of the sport, also competed in the MXGP category.

Gajser, riding for Honda, was particularly impressive during this round, capitalizing on his momentum from previous races. His aggressive yet controlled riding style enabled him to secure important points in the race for the championship.

MX2 Class:

The MX2 class is primarily a proving ground for younger, up-and-coming riders, typically racing with bikes of lower engine capacities compared to the MXGP class. Jeffrey Herlings, widely regarded as one of the best MX2 riders of his era, continued his dominance in the class. Despite facing stiff competition, Herlings showcased his superior skill on the challenging Neuquén track, extending his lead in the MX2 championship standings.

Significance in the 2016 Championship:

As the fourth round of the championship, the MXGP of Argentina played a pivotal role in shaping the early-season standings for both the MXGP and MX2 classes. The technical demands of the Neuquén track forced riders to push their limits, and those who performed well solidified their status as contenders for the world title.

In particular, Gajser's strong performance in Argentina contributed to his eventual overall victory in the 2016 MXGP Championship, while Herlings' continued dominance in the MX2 class helped him build an insurmountable lead by the season’s end.

Key Riders:

MXGP:

- [Romain Febvre](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romain_Febvre) (Yamaha)

- [Tim Gajser](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Gajser) (Honda)

- [Antonio Cairoli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antonio_Cairoli) (KTM)

- **MX2:**

- [Jeffrey Herlings](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Herlings) (KTM)

- [Jeremy Seewer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremy_Seewer) (Suzuki)

- [Paul Jonass](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pauls_Jonass) (KTM)

Results:

The final standings for the 2016 MXGP of Argentina were as follows:

MXGP Category:

- 1st: Tim Gajser (Honda)

- 2nd: Romain Febvre (Yamaha)

- 3rd: Antonio Cairoli (KTM)

MX2 Category:

- 1st: Jeffrey Herlings (KTM)

- 2nd: Jeremy Seewer (Suzuki)

- 3rd: Pauls Jonass (KTM)

Legacy:

The 2016 MXGP of Argentina is remembered for the fierce rivalry between Gajser and Febvre, with the two pushing each other throughout the season in their quest for the MXGP title. It also reinforced Jeffrey Herlings' dominance in the MX2 class, setting him on the path to further career success in the MXGP class in subsequent years.

References