Brightmore back on the podium as X-GRIP Racing Team shines in Budapest

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Strong comeback performance at SuperEnduro’s halfway point

Back close to full fitness after a difficult third round, Mitch Brightmore returned to form as the 2026 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship reached its halfway stage in Budapest, Hungary. Racing inside a packed MVW Dome, the X-GRIP Racing Team delivered one of its strongest nights of the season, highlighted by a podium finish and an impressive debut from stand-in rider Cooper Abbott.

New line-up, immediate impact

With Ashton Brightmore sidelined through injury, X-GRIP Racing Team drafted in the experienced American Abbott for his first SuperEnduro appearance with the squad. Despite having only limited time on the GASGAS machine, Abbott adapted quickly to the tight and technical Budapest track, qualifying an excellent seventh.

Brightmore immediately showed his intent by setting the fastest lap in Timed Practice. Both riders advanced to SuperPole, where Abbott again placed seventh, while Brightmore delivered a near-perfect lap to secure second fastest and two valuable championship points.

Race one recovery and late-race drama

In front of over 17,000 spectators, race one began strongly for both riders. Brightmore slotted into third early on, while Abbott also enjoyed a solid start. A major pile-up in the demanding rock garden dramatically reshuffled the order, dropping Brightmore back to seventh, while Abbott emerged unscathed and briefly battled inside the top four.

Both riders showed impressive composure and racecraft. Brightmore mounted a determined comeback, climbing back through the field, while Abbott defended his position inside the top six. In the closing stages, Brightmore forced a decisive pass in the penultimate corner to secure third place and a hard-earned podium finish. Abbott crossed the line sixth after a highly controlled ride.

Reverse grid delivers another strong showing

Race two’s reverse-grid format played to Brightmore’s strengths. The British rider charged forward immediately, climbing to fourth within a single lap. Abbott, starting further back, found himself down in 11th but remained focused.

Both riders pushed hard throughout the race. Abbott once again impressed with his consistency, finishing sixth despite racing the GASGAS indoors for the first time. Up front, Brightmore continued his charge to finish second, trailing only championship leader Billy Bolt.

Final race fight at the front

In the third and final race, Brightmore grabbed the holeshot and led the field in the early laps. Bolt applied immediate pressure and eventually moved into the lead, setting up a thrilling battle at the front. Despite feeling the effects of his injured shoulder late in the race, Brightmore delivered his strongest performance of the season, riding smartly and limiting mistakes to secure second place, just seconds short of victory.

Abbott once again exceeded expectations. Starting ninth, the American charged through the field with confidence and precision to finish fifth. With race results of 6-6-5, he secured sixth overall on the night with 31 points, an outstanding debut performance for the team.

Momentum building for the second half of the season

Brightmore’s steady progression since the season opener underlines his growing confidence and fitness, while Abbott’s Budapest performance proved the depth and adaptability of the X-GRIP Racing Team. With momentum firmly on their side, the team now looks ahead to the second half of the championship, with anticipation already building for Ashton Brightmore’s return to competition.

Foto: Mihai Birca, RaddioPaddok, SportUp