Matt Phillips earned himself a podium spot on debut for Husqvarna in the EWC series.

Australia’s Matt Phillips has made a successful debut for the Husqvarna Racing Team by CH Racing at round one of the FIM Enduro World Championship (EWC) in Talca, Chile.

Competing in the Enduro Junior class, Phillips battled his way though his first ever EWC event, having to quickly adapt to both the unfamiliar class and championship.

Phillips’ opening day was tough, but he kept a positive outlook and put together a podium result on day two, logging the third fastest times on five of the nine special tests throughout the day.

“Everything’s been new for me this weekend,” said Phillips. “Even communicating with the guys was a little strange to start with, but as the weekend’s progressed things have got better and better.

“The first day was tough as I was riding at the back of the Enduro Junior class, which meant I was always riding in dust. But I had some good tests and enjoyed it. Day two went better but I struggled on the enduro test.”

Although he enjoyed his EWC debut, Phillips admits that the transition to the series has been tougher than expected.

“I’ve not done much racing in these kinds of conditions, so I was learning all the time,” he added. “It’s been a lot tougher than I was expecting. It’s great to get the first event under my belt and had a great time. It’s been a tough but enjoyable first world championship race for me.”

Phillips and the Husqvarna Enduro Team by CH Racing will now head to Argentina for round two of the series on 23 March.