The ninety-sixth edition of the FIM International Six Days of Enduro (ISDE) officially opened for business with the traditional opening ceremony on Saturday night.
Taking place in the heart of France’s host town Le Puy-En-Velay, competitors and supporters from thirty nations gathered in the town square to celebrate the beginning of this year’s FIM ISDE.
With excitement high, it was an opportunity for flag waving, singing, chanting and general celebration ahead of the next six days of racing to come.
FIM President Jorge Viegas was on hand in Le Puy-En-Velay to welcome everyone to France.
“We welcome the riders and teams to the ninety-sixth FIM ISDE here in Le Puy-En-Velay,” told Viegas. “A spectacular city and region, it holds a lot of history in the sport of Enduro for France.”
“The ISDE is for you, the riders and the fans. To see so many people from so many countries around the world is so important. We wish everyone involved to have a great week here in France.”
As is customary, defending FIM ISDE champions Italy arrived on stage with the World Trophy. One of the nations favourite to win in 2022, team leader Andrea Verona (GASGAS) is feeling optimistic for the race ahead.
“We are very happy and proud to stand on the stage as the defending FIM World Trophy Champions,” said Verona. “We are in good shape and looking forward to going full gas again this year. Like other teams we come here to win.”
“I really like the tests and it looks like the week will be really good. The tests will be challenging, but this is what we want.”
The FIM ISDE takes place in Le Puy-En-Velay, France from August 29 – September 3.
