Image: Foremost Media.

Newly-crowned 125cc world champion Bailey Malkiewicz rates his well-earned world title over the MXD crown he wrapped up earlier this month in the Pirelli MX Nationals.

The youthful talent highlighted that despite having to manage the MXD championship over 10 rounds, the two moto format at Horsham’s Junior Motocross World Championship yesterday meant there was no room for error and only amplified the pressure to string together two strong race results.

“This was a lot harder – you only have two races and one shot at it,” Malkiewicz told MotoOnline.com.au. “In MXD, you have 10 rounds, so if you have one bad one, you’re okay, but if you have a bad race [in the world championship], it’s pretty much over. It was a lot more challenging.

“The world title definitely means more – you’re racing the best kids from all around on the world. It’s a world title, not just a development class in Australia. The world title is definitely a greater achievement and means a lot more.”

The Bulk Nutrients WBR Yamaha rider displayed blistering pace aboard his YZ125, charging to second in the opening affair before a spirited ride in the final encounter saw him emerge victorious.

Just 16 years of age, Malkiewicz relived the final moments of race two, describing the cheers from fans as he crossed the chequered flag as an unbelievable feeling.

“The last couple of laps when I moved into the lead, I could hear the whole crowd around the track going wild,” he continued. “It really got me going and made me push through to the finish. Going over that last jump, everyone was screaming and it was an unbelievable feeling.”

Establishing himself as one of the most promising riders in Australia, Malkiewicz is now set to make his debut campaign in the SX2 category of the Australian Supercross Championship, scheduled to commence on 15 September at Jimboomba in Queensland.