Monster Energy Yamaha rider Jago Geerts is a talent, which is obvious, and his handful of runner-up finishes in the MX2 World championships over the last four or five years tells us that. While the 2024 MXGP debut hasn’t gone to plan, you just know in no time, he will find his speed and hopefully come the final round of the series in Spain, he will be back to his best and capable of maybe even a podium finish.

While injury has ruined his season, Geerts is back in action and returned to GP action last weekend in Arnhem, scoring 11-13 results around one of the toughest circuits in the World. Being realistic about his chances in Holland, he knew it wouldn’t be easy and was happy with his overall result and his speed.

We sat down and talked with the Belgian rider, about his comeback in the Keiheuvel race in Belgium, where he did finish with a third-place moto finish and arrived in Arnhem with some confidence. We also asked him about his exclusion from the Belgian MXoN team, something of a shock to many, including Geerts, but like the quiet achiever that he is, he took it on the chin and is available if Belgium need him.

MXlarge: Firstly, how are you feeling, because you have been out for a long time?

Geerts: Yes, I am happy to be back at the races. It has been a long time with the injury and difficult to come back from and I am happy to be back in Arnhem.

MXLarge: The track looks really difficult, even the front guys looked like they were struggling a bit. Is Arnhem even harder than Lommel?

Geerts: I think it is similar to Lommel this year, because of the rain yesterday and also this week, so it is heavier, and the ruts get deeper on the jumps, on the take-offs, so the track is really rough this year.

MXlarge: On Saturday, you started around 16th and finished the same spot. Did anything happen, or you were just happy to get laps in?

Geerts: I think I was around 20th in the first lap and made some passes and stayed in 16th place for most of the race. It was okay, but we spent time trying to figure out how to set-up the bike. I didn’t take any risks and just did my laps and tried to improve for Sunday.

MXlarge: You tried to come back for Lommel and that didn’t really work out and then coming back here, two really tough tracks, but I assume you were just desperate to get back on the bike after so long out?

Geerts: For sure, the tracks are more difficult than hard pack, but I am used to riding in Lommel and also in Arnhem, so for me it was good to come back here and set-up the bike and the hard pack will be okay. I am really looking forward to getting to Switzerland and see how I can do.

MXLarge: How did you feel at the Belgian International the week of the Dutch GP?

Geerts: I felt a little better there than here, but my speed was good there. I felt really good. An eleventh (after a crash in the first lap) in the first moto and a third place in the second moto are a good preparation for the MXGP in Arnhem, the Netherlands this weekend. Thanks to all the media that paid attention to my comeback. Also, a huge thank you to KMC Mol for this perfect organization and amazing track. Thanks also to the thousands of fans who came with their children to Balen. The cheering from the JG93 fans gave me goosebumps. See you in Arnhem on Sunday.

MXLarge: What about Arnhem, how did you feel there?

Geerts: After my successful comeback in Balen, earlier in the week, I’m really satisfied with my return to the World Championship. Two good starts, two decent motos. I can’t expect more yet. Don’t forget that I miss competition rhythm. This was my first GP of the season. And don’t forget this was my first race in MXGP. That requires a certain adjustment, you know. I’m especially happy to be back again. The train has left again. Now the idea is to make steps forwards.

MXLarge: Tell me, they picked the Belgian team last week and when I saw the team, I just assumed you asked not to be picked, because you might not be ready, but then I found out you just didn’t get picked. That surprised, because I think you have shown in the past you are a very good Nations rider and I think everyone has some questions if Sasha (Coenen) will be ready for such an event, as he is very inexperienced and does show a lack of consistency this year (rumour says he is also injured). Without doubt, he will be a major part of Belgian motocross I the future and do many Nations for his country. Can you explain how you found out you were not picked and were you surprised?

Geerts: A little bit disappointed, but on the other hand, I understand. The other guys won a few GPs between them, and they are having good seasons, but for sure, some people are feeling strange about it and the coach picked the team and I can’t say anything about it.

MXlarge: If they need you, for instance if somebody gets injured, would you fill in for them?

Geerts: Yes, for sure, if somebody gets injured, I will ride for my country.

MXLarge: Four rounds remaining in Switzerland, Turkey, China and Spain. What can you expect from these last four rounds?

Geerts: Just getting races under my belt and getting the feeling back on the bike and I need to get some experience for next year.

MXlarge: Are you signed for next year?

Geerts: Yes, I am staying with Yamaha next year. They had an option on me, and they wanted to continue.

Stefan Geukens images