Northern Ireland's Mark McLernon claims runner-up finish in inaugural Quadcross World Championship

Qualifying for the final round at GP Varsseveld in the Netherlands, McLernon struggled to feel comfortable and eventually finished sixth.

Race one started much better as he slotted into second before passing world champion Saar for the lead following an opening-lap mistake.

Saar quickly regained the advantage, with eventual winner Mike van Grinsven also moving past. McLernon held third until Harry Walker came through around the halfway mark, when losing his goggles made conditions difficult for the remainder of the race.

For the final race, McLernon fitted heavier springs to help keep the bike higher and out of the ruts, but drama followed when his machine refused to start on the line.

With five seconds to go, his engine finally fired up. McLernon immediately put it into gear and somehow emerged from the first corner in second before eventually finishing third.

Despite ending the season as world number two, McLernon isn’t particularly keen to tackle the full championship again given the weeks of travelling required around Europe, stays at campsites and service stations and the challenge of carrying out most of the work on his machine himself with his friends.

“A huge amount of work went into the year, and coming away as world number two makes all that effort worthwhile,” McLernon said.

Meanwhile, the 2026 Irish MX season came to a close Mountain Quarter, Saul Co Down with an excellent day of racing in front of a massive crowd.

More than 200 riders descended on the venue for the season finale. Although time restrictions forced the Knock Club to bring the meeting to an early conclusion after two sets of races, it did little to detract from an entertaining day of motocross.

Nathan Green and Niall Cregan arrived at the final round level on points at the top of the Plews Irish MX1 Pro Championship, but it was GOMX Yamaha rider Green who emerged as champion.

“It was nerve-racking all week,” said Green. "I’d worked hard, but mistakes and bike problems can happen.

"In the last race, my head was going a hundred miles an hour, but I kept her steady and got the win – I’m over the moon. Thanks to my family, Stevie Mills, GOMX and everyone supporting us.”

Apico Honda rider Josh Gilbert claimed the overall Pro victory after sharing the race wins with Dixon Racing Kawasaki rider Taylor Hammal.

Moto-Cycle Yamaha rider Jason Meara was the top local finisher in fifth overall.

“I struggled a wee bit in qualifying, but I had a good start in race one and went with them for two or three laps before arm pump left me with no choice but to settle for fifth,” he said.

“I felt strong in race two and, despite a bad start, finished fifth again. I didn’t take any mad risks with the MXoN coming up in a few weeks’ time, and I’m ready to finish the season strong.”

Glenn McCormick (Chambers KTM) was sixth overall and second in MX2 behind Jamie Keith.

“I got caught up in a first-turn pile-up and had to work hard to finish eighth,” said McCormick.

"After a good start in race two, I settled for sixth. More importantly, it was a brilliant day for the sport.”

Martin Barr finished sixth in MX1 and ninth overall on the HTM Husqvarna.

“I really enjoyed the day and for having very little racing this year I’m delighted with my result,” smiled Barr.

Alfie Herron wrapped up the MX2 Pro Championship to add to his 125 Youth title.

“It has been a great season, but I had no expectations at all in MX2,” said the Castlewellan teenager.

"There aren’t many riders who have won the MX2 title on a 125, that’s for sure.”

Stephen Bailie, Luke Flynn, Thomas O’Grady, Noah Annett, Neil McFarland and David Totty were also crowned champions in their respective classes.