MX official gives background on disqualifications

Lourens du Plessis (chairperson of the Namibia Motocross Sub-Commission) writes:RE: Article in Sports Wrap – Drama by sewende ronde op OmaruruFirstly, thank you for your continued coverage of motocross in Namibia. Your reporting provides valuable visibility for the sport, and we appreciate the effort that goes into it.With reference to your article dated 24 September 2025, I must note several inaccuracies and omissions that unfortunately create a one-sided impression of the event. For accuracy, I am not the chairperson of the NMSF, but the chairperson of the NMSF Motocross Sub-Commission.Background on the disqualifications:&bull; At Leg 4 earlier this season, the rider in question received a first and final warning following inappropriate conduct after a on-track incident with another rider, which ended with making provocative signs in front of spectators. This was clearly communicated and recorded. Whether provoked or not, such behaviour is not permitted. As this is a family-friendly sport, we take particular care with behaviour displayed in front of children and young riders, whose minds are easily influenced by what they see.&bull; At Leg 7 in Omaruru, the same rider, Luca Brand, was disqualified in Heat 1 by the Clerk of the Course (COC), Ms. Elzaan du Plessis, for deliberately t-boning rider Juan de Vos. This incident was witnessed by multiple spectators and officials.&bull; In Heat 3, a similar situation occurred, this time involving rider Jarno Metzger, where Luca Brand was observed intentionally pushing him off track. The COC intervened immediately and issued a second disqualification. Officials are duty-bound to act when repeated warnings are ignored. These decisions are never taken lightly, but they are essential to uphold safety, fairness, and the integrity of the sport.For the last disqualification, a protest was lodged following the COC’s decision. As the NMSF Steward on the day, I reviewed the matter thoroughly. The protest included photographic material but no video evidence, and the photos did not provide sufficient grounds to overturn the disqualification. The rider involved, Jarno Metzger, was also asked to give his account, which aligned with the report already provided by the COC. On this basis, the Stewards upheld the original ruling.The second disqualification was also made due to the rider’s continued disregard of repeated warnings regarding reckless riding, as well as unwarranted behaviour that officials had already addressed. Officials are obliged to intervene when warnings are not heeded, as safety is paramount.It is important to clarify that the protest process does carry a fee, as noted in your article. This is a standard regulation applied across motorsport to discourage unsubstantiated protests. Riders also retain the right to appeal a Steward’s decision, an option which, in this case, was not taken up. Although the protest submitted did not meet the formal requirements set out in the rules, it was nevertheless reviewed, reflecting the fairness with which the matter was handled.All officials acted in full accordance with the NMSF regulations. Decisions were taken carefully and only after considering all available facts. While disqualifications are always regrettable, they are necessary when a rider repeatedly fails to comply with the rules that safeguard safety and fairness.It must also be stressed that when repeat offenders are shown undue leniency, situations can escalate. In motocross, escalation is not something we can allow, it can result in severe injuries and, in extreme cases, even death. We pride ourselves on keeping this family sport fun and safe for everyone involved, including spectators. For this reason, situations of this nature must always be taken very seriously.Yours sincerely,Lourens du PlessisChairperson, Motocross Sub-Commission

MX official gives background on disqualifications

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Republikein 2026-05-05

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MX official gives background on disqualifications

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