The 2006 MX1 and MX2 Motocross World Championships reach a conclusion at Ernee on Sunday, when the Grand Prix of France marks the 15th and final round of the season.
The event will mark the last ever grand prix appearance by reigning record-breaking ten-times world champion Stefan Everts, who will bring his glittering career to a close just two weeks after claiming his 100th GP victory.
Having been beaten only one this season, by Josh Coppins at Desertmartin in Northern Ireland, the Yamaha star will be favourite for win number 101 this weekend - but will need to beat both Coppins, his future successor at Yamaha, and countryman Kevin Strijbos, amongst others, to sign off his career in style.
Suzuki mounted Strijbos looks likely to hold second in the championship, with CAS Honda rider Coppins now up to seventh despite missing the first seven GPs due to injury - but Steve Ramon (third), Ken de Dycker (fourth) and Tanel Leok (fifth) are likely to be in contention for podium honours.
Meanwhile, the local fans will have two big names to support in MX1 with former double world champion Mickael Pichon returning for only his second - and most likely last - grand prix, while 34-year-old Yves Demaria will also line-up on a factory KTM.
However, whilst those established names are reaching the end of their careers a new French star looks almost certain to be crowned world champion on Sunday, with Kawasaki's Christophe Pourcel holding a commanding 28 point lead over Yamaha's reigning world champion Antonio Cairoli.
Third place in the championship is less assured with KTM team-mate Tyla Rattray and David Philippaerts separated by just six points.
