What Is 2022 FIM Motocross World Championship

Overview

The 2022 FIM Motocross World Championship marked the 66th edition of the premier motocross series, sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). It featured two primary classes: MXGP for 450cc bikes and MX2 for 250cc machines, with riders competing across 20 rounds in 15 countries.

Season highlights included dominant performances from Tim Gajser in MXGP and Jago Geerts in MX2, both delivering consistent results throughout the year. The championship returned to a full pre-pandemic calendar, including new locations like Kegums, Latvia, and a dramatic finale in Mantova, Italy.

• 20 rounds were held between February 27 and September 11, making it one of the longest seasons in series history.
• Tim Gajser claimed his fifth MXGP title, becoming only the third rider in history to achieve that milestone.
• Jago Geerts won the MX2 class at age 20, securing the title with three rounds remaining in the season.
• The series visited 15 countries, including debuts in Latvia and a return to Turkey after a 12-year absence.
• Honda won the MXGP Manufacturers' Championship, ending KTM’s streak of four consecutive titles since 2018.

How It Works

The FIM Motocross World Championship operates on a points-based system across multiple rounds, with each event featuring two motos (races) per class. Riders earn points based on finishing positions, and the rider with the highest cumulative total at season’s end wins the title.

• Points System: Riders earn points from 1st (50 points) to 20th (1 point) in each moto, with consistency heavily rewarded.
• Double Motos: Each round features two separate motos, and the overall winner is determined by combined results.
• MXGP Class: Open to 450cc motorcycles, this is the premier category featuring top riders like Tim Gajser and Jorge Prado.
• MX2 Class: Restricted to 250cc bikes, this class serves as a talent pipeline, with riders under 23 years old.
• Grand Prix Format: Events span two days, with practice and qualifying on Saturday and races on Sunday.
• Team Championships: Manufacturers earn points based on top two riders’ finishes, influencing bike development and sponsorship.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of key performance metrics between the 2022 MXGP and MX2 champions:

The data shows that while Gajser had fewer overall wins than Geerts, his consistency across all 20 rounds secured his title. Geerts’ dominance in MX2 was highlighted by a 94% podium rate, underscoring his rapid rise in the sport. Both champions overcame mid-season injuries and tough competition, with Geerts returning from a collarbone fracture in May to dominate the second half.

Why It Matters

The 2022 season was pivotal for the sport’s global growth and competitive balance. With rising viewership and manufacturer investment, the championship continues to shape motocross culture and technology.

• Global Reach: The calendar spanned five continents, increasing international exposure and fan engagement.
• Manufacturer Competition: Honda’s win ended KTM’s dominance, signaling a shift in engineering and strategy.
• Youth Development: MX2 served as a proving ground, with riders like Geerts moving toward MXGP careers.
• Injury Comebacks: Both Gajser and Geerts overcame significant injuries, highlighting athlete resilience.
• Environmental Focus: FIM introduced sustainability initiatives, including reduced travel and carbon offsetting.
• Media Expansion: Live streaming and social media coverage reached over 10 million unique viewers globally.

The 2022 FIM Motocross World Championship set new benchmarks for competition and global appeal, reinforcing its status as the premier off-road motorcycle racing series.