With Teo, Spain hosting the final round of the 2015 FIM Trial World Championship this weekend, it seems the perfect moment to reflect on the success this great nation has enjoyed in the sport of Trial over the years. Whilst Spanish riders have always played an important role in the series since its inception back in 1975, it has been during the more modern era that this southern European country’s elite has enjoyed undoubted success on a huge scale.
Jordi Tarres’ first FIM Trial World Championship in 1987 also marked the first for Spain too despite the challengers that had come before him. As history shows Tarres then went on to secure six more titles – 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994 and 1995 – and in doing so became one of the true legends of the slow speed discipline.
Spain then had to wait a decade before they returned to the top of the pile with Adam Raga – Gas Gas achieving back to back FIM Trial World Championships in 2005 and 2006 before his reign was abruptly interrupted by the new and undisputed King of Trial. Like his actual move to the Montesa team Toni Bou – Repsol Honda maiden outdoor crown came somewhat as a surprise in 2007, but since then his continued winning ways have come as anything but a shock. Last weekend saw Bou seal his ninth successive FIM Trial World Championship to extend Spain’s reign for another year at least.