The two-time FIM Enduro World Champion was initially selected to represent France as a key member of their FIM World Trophy team. A life-changing spinal injury, during a rally competition in late August, sadly brought an end to Bellino’s riding career.
Bellino’s absence remains heavy in the hearts of the entire French team with his absence from the event is felt across all corners of the FIM ISDE paddock.
Aiming for victory this week in Chile, team captain Christophe Nambotin - Gas Gas - says spirits remain high, but reflective, within the French teams.
“The motivation is good and although Matthias cannot be here with us on this journey, he’s in our thoughts,” says Nambotin. “We are racing for him as much as for ourselves and we want to deliver the victory for him.”
“This will actually be my ninth time representing France at the FIM ISDE. I rode twice in the FIM Junior World Trophy and six times with the FIM World Trophy team - winning the FIM World Trophy each time.
“However, with Mathias’s injury fresh in my mind, claiming victory this year is more important than ever.”
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Defending champions France race For Bellino
