The European appearance of the most successful rider in AMA Motocross/Supercross history, who is heading for a new career in Stock Car racing, is sure to guarantee a sell-out event as the stars battle for individual and national honour within the cramped confines of "le chaudron" ("the cooking pot").
Past Kings of Bercy include such legends Johnny O'Mara, David Bailey, Rick Johnson, Jeff Ward, Jean-Michel Bayle, Jeff Stanton, Jeremy McGrath, Mike LaRocco and David Vuillemin - but not yet Carmichael…
The 'Greatest Rider Of All Time' came to Bercy early in his big-bike career, but had a disappointing week-end, which ended prematurely when a gearbox malfunction sent him over the 'bars during day two practice and left him with a broken collarbone.
RC still has a plate in his shoulder to remind him about the incident but, when contacted by the promoters, he jumped at the chance to add the King of Bercy title to his extra-long list of achievements.
And the Floridian will be able to ride his usual 450cc Suzuki, after a rule change ended a five-year run of 250cc-only racing.
Grant Langston, the newly crowned AMA Motocross champion, will be eager to inflict a rare defeat on Carmichael, after finishing second to RC at the 2007 X-Games. The “Zulu Warrior” loves Bercy - he was crowned King, twice, on smaller bikes - and, as always, the hard-charging South African won't give an inch to his competition
Himself twice King of Bercy, American Andrew Short is another rider who has great hopes. After battling with Langston for the AMA title, finishing third in the prestigious series, the Factory Honda rider has shown his true potential on big bikes too.
Sebastien Pourcel, the most successful French rider this season - he finished 4th, for his first MX1 season, with two GP wins - will represent the host Nation and aim to replicate his younger brother's 2006 victory. Christophe will not ride due this year due to serious injuries sustained in the Grand Prix of Northern Ireland.
Carmichael, Langston and Pourcel will be the leaders for the three teams: USA, “Rest of the World” and France.
Besides RC and Short, Josh Grant will be back to represent the USA, after a strong but crash-filled showing last year. The fourth rider for Team USA will be announced after the US Open.
