Just days after announcing his retirement from full-time Word Championship EnduroGP racing at seasons’ end, Matthew Phillips has charged back onto the podium with two solid performances at the GP of Portugal.
Phillips shocked the enduro world with his surprise announcement last week and after uncharacteristic mediocre results at the previous two GP events in Greece and Hungry, the Tasmanian has fought back with his signature never-say-die attitude. The reigning World Champion placed second on Saturday in very dusty and extremely technical terrain behind British rider Nathan Watson. Phillips fought a fierce battle with current Championship points leader Steve Holcombe who ended up third.
“Awesome felling to be back on the podium,” said Phillips. “Hats off to Nathan today and great to be fighting with Steve again. Big thanks to the Team for always giving their 110 percent.”
The second day of racing in Portugal was another dusty affair with intense racing. Phillips charged hard to claim third place behind Holcombe and Christophe Charlier.
“It was tough today,” Phillips offered after the race. “Hot and dusty but I’m happy to be on the podium.”
After entering the Portugal rounds of EnduroGP racing sitting fifth in the Championship points, Phillips has propelled himself up to third place, just 20 points in arrears of second position.
The next EnduroGP will take place at Hawkstone Park in the United Kingdom, September 23 & 24.