Motocross team world champion, MX1 world championship runner-up, six-time grand prix winner, two-time ADAC MX Masters winner - the achievements of world championship rider Max Nagl (28) are manifold. The Bavarian first began competing with the Big Boys in the world championship some nine years ago and has made a name for himself every year ever since by securing victories and top rankings. Only one title has so far eluded the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team rider, the world championship. He is really keen to become world champion. A goal that is well within reach. The Husqvarna rider is currently fourth in the ranks of the international MX elite.

Max Nagl is a real workhorse on the motocross scene. His ambition, his discipline and willpower make him an opponent that the top stars in the world championship have to take seriously. He often engages in thrilling charges up the field in pursuit of his strongest rivals, Tony Cairoli (30), Romain Febvre (24) and Tim Gajser (19). Their times usually only vary by a few fractions of a second, and that is what attracts the MX star so much to the world championship, going up against the best and being one of the top contenders.

His recipe for success - skill and expertise. "I've been competing for so many years and have acquired plenty of experience over time. That's helped me become more relaxed and better able to cope with stressful situations. I think that's now one of my plus points," he told us. Max is father to Mason (1) and is supported in his career as a pro by his fiancée Sabrina (28). He is also known for his speedy starts. In the ADAC MX Masters, he often wins the 'Red Bull holeshot' for the rider who is first into the first corner.

The current world championship rider was practically born to be an extreme athlete, as his father, Hubert Nagl, was also a successful motocross rider and had a motorcycle business. Young Max contested his first race on a PW50 in Weilheim as a wee laddie, aged eight, after which he never looked back. "I've always loved being quick on two wheels. It feels great to go fast on loose ground, to take the jumps and really fly through the air to the cheers of my fans at the track," said Max, describing his fascination with the sport.

Spectators always really take to the Bavarian. You see, the 28-year-old holds no truck with arrogance or airs and graces. Despite his fame, the world championship rider is normally down-to-earth and friendly and always leaves plenty of time for autographs and interviews. "My fans are important to me. Apart from my family, they are the ones who support me, and I think that's great. It makes me feel more confident on the track, motivates me and gives me a lot of pleasure," said the famous motocross rider, who was named ADAC Motor Sportsman of the Year in 2012. Max is and will always simply be Max, and no amount of titles and trophies will ever change that.