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Exciting start to the 2025 FIM EWC championship
The 2025 FIM Endurance World Championship kicked off with a bang over the Easter weekend at the iconic Bugatti circuit, hosting the 48th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This prestigious event is not just a test of speed but also a true testament to endurance, strategy, and teamwork. The challenging wet track conditions during the race’s opening hours led to a record number of crashes, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans and a test of skill for the riders.
Kawasaki’s strategic prowess on display
Starting from the 7th position, Grégory Leblanc, a co-record holder with five wins at Le Mans, showcased his exceptional racing skills. He quickly moved the #11 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR into 3rd place, demonstrating a solid pace that set the tone for the team’s performance. Meanwhile, Mike Di Meglio, who began in 2nd, displayed caution and strategy, allowing him to take the lead as dusk fell. The Kawasaki team’s ability to adapt to the ever-changing conditions was crucial, as they earned maximum bonus points at the 8-hour mark, solidifying their position in the race.
Challenges and triumphs during the race
As the race progressed, the Kawasaki Webike Trickstar team faced numerous challenges, including a crash by Di Meglio with just three and a half hours remaining. Fortunately, the incident was minor, and the team managed to maintain their lead. The rain intensified towards the end, prompting a strategic tire change that proved pivotal. Despite setbacks, the team’s experience and commitment shone through, allowing them to complete repairs swiftly and return to the track with minimal time lost.
Riders reflect on their performance
Post-race, the riders expressed mixed emotions about their performance. Roman Ramos Alvaro, who played a significant role in the team’s success, shared his excitement about finishing on the podium, stating, “If someone had told me before arriving at Le Mans that I would finish on the podium in a race like this, I would have signed up straight away!” Mike Di Meglio echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the team’s strong pace and resilience despite the challenging conditions. Grégory Leblanc, reflecting on his 15th appearance at Le Mans, expressed a desire for a different outcome but recognized the importance of the points earned for the championship.
Looking ahead to the next challenge
With a total of 53 points from qualifying and the race, the Kawasaki Webike Trickstar team is now positioned second in the provisional world championship standings. The excitement doesn’t end here, as the championship will continue with the next round at the 8 Hours of Spa in Belgium on June 7. The team is eager to build on their performance and continue their pursuit of excellence in the 2025 season.