Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s star, Manuel Lettenbichler, clinched the 2024 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship title at the Hixpania Hard Enduro. Securing a third-place finish in the grueling Spanish race, Lettenbichler locked in the title on the final day of the season after a season of resilience and strong performances.
With a 17-point lead heading into the final round, Lettenbichler needed a solid performance to secure the title. Starting strong, he placed fourth in Saturday’s qualifying round. On Sunday’s main race, under relentless rain and challenging terrain, Lettenbichler quickly advanced to second. A significant crash midway through the race injured his ankle, forcing him back to third, but he maintained his position to cross the finish line with determination.
Lettenbichler’s season has been impressive, opening with victories at the Valleys Hard Enduro and Red Bull Erzbergrodeo. Despite missing the Xross Hard Enduro Rally in Serbia due to a knee injury, the 26-year-old made a swift comeback to claim victories in rounds four, five, and six. He capped off the season in Spain with a podium finish, solidifying his 2024 Hard Enduro crown in style.
Manuel Lettenbichler: “I’m so stoked to have won the championship for the third time in a row! Getting another podium after such a tough race feels amazing. I had a big crash in the middle of the race, which was painful, so I’m really happy to have finished strong. It’s been an incredible season with plenty of ups and downs, but it has all paid off in the end!”
Provisional Results – 2024 Hixpania Hard Enduro
1. Billy Bolt (GBR), Husqvarna, 2:08:55.93
2. Mario Roman (ESP), Sherco, 2:15:43.89 (+6:47)
3. Manuel Lettenbichler (GER), KTM, 2:25:35.65 (+16:39)
4. Wade Young (RSA), GASGAS, 2:35:51.34 (+26:55)
5. Graham Jarvis (GBR), Husqvarna, 2:38:29.98 (+29:34)
Provisional Standings – 2024 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship (After 7 of 7 rounds)
- Manuel Lettenbichler (GER), KTM, 127 points
- Wade Young (RSA), GASGAS, 109 points
- Mario Roman (ESP), Sherco, 108 points
- Teodor Kabakchiev (BUL), Sherco, 91 points
- Mitch Brightmore (GBR), Husqvarna, 79 points