British rider Joe Brookes claimed the first EMX250 podium finish of his career with an impressive second overall at the MXGP of Portugal, as Spain’s Francisco Garcia continued his dominant run in the 2026 FIM European Motocross Championship.
Images courtesy of Infront Moto Racing
Racing in the hot conditions at Águeda, Garcia completed a perfect weekend with victory in both races to extend his championship lead to a commanding 104 points. However, from a British perspective, it was Brookes who stole the headlines.
Maiden EMX250 Podium
Brookes produced two determined rides aboard his Honda to finish fourth in Race One before charging through the pack from outside the top ten in Race Two to secure third place and clinch second overall on the day.
The result marks the youngster’s first ever EMX250 podium, another significant milestone in what continues to be an impressive season.
Speaking after the podium finish, Brookes said:
“It was really good. I didn’t get the best start and got pinched at the gate, but I managed to come through well in the first couple of minutes. I made some aggressive passes, I really enjoyed the track and found some good lines, and I felt good.”
Garcia Untouchable
While Brookes celebrated his breakthrough result, Garcia was in a class of his own throughout the weekend.
The Venum BUD Racing Kawasaki rider controlled both races from the front to complete a perfect 1-1 scorecard and record his fifth overall victory of the season, stretching his championship advantage to 104 points.
Reflecting on another dominant weekend, Garcia said:
“I train every day to be the best version of myself and to not be tired in the race. I work so hard with my trainer and my team to be able to do this, and this is only the beginning. I’m already focusing on next year too, so we’ll see what happens.”
Tough Weekend for the British EMX125 Riders
It proved a more difficult weekend in the EMX125 class for the British contingent, with only Drew Stock notching up a point for 20th in the second moto for 24th overall, while Hayden Statt and Brian Gyles didn’t get on the scoreboard. Ricardo Bauer claimed the overall victory to close the championship gap to teammate Moritz Ernecker.
EMX250 Overall Results
EMX125 Overall Results
