Image: Supplied.

Former MX2 world champion Pauls Jonass has expressed satisfaction in the decision to line-up for yesterday’s opening round of the 2019 MXGP World Championship, marking his debut in the premier class.

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider experienced a shortened pre-season after undergoing knee surgery at the conclusion of his 2018 campaign, casting doubt over his entry for last weekend’s opener.

Transitioning both to 450 machinery and the Husqvarna brand for 2019, Jonass pieced together a respectable 10-9 scorecard for 10th overall at the Neuquen circuit in Argentina, forming a strong base to build from this year.

“Considering the limited time I had on the bike during the off-season, I am really happy with my results here in Argentina,” Jonass commented. “I had two decent motos, made no mistakes and learnt a lot. This was my first race in the MXGP class on the FC 450 and everything was new for me.

“I have to take this experience and continue working to become a better 450 rider. The races in this class are a lot more intense and also the starts are massively important for each moto. I’m happy we took the decision to come here in Argentina and I’m motivated to get back to work as soon as we return to Europe.”

Nine-time world champion Antonio Cairoli (Red Bull KTM Factory Racing) took out both motos for the overall, joined on the podium by Tim Gajser (Honda HRC) and Jeremy van Horebeek (Honda SR Motoblouz).