Six-time Speedway GP world champion Bartosz Zmarzlik says “consistency and confidence” from Aussie rival Brady Kurtz tested him as he held on to take his place in the history books.
Zmarzlik clinched the sport’s biggest prize by one point in 2025, only just seeing off Speedway GP debutant Kurtz, who raced to an incredible five straight victories in Gorzow, Malilla, Riga, Wroclaw and Vojens – becoming the first rider in the series’ history to win five SGPs on the bounce.
But three wins for Zmarzlik in the first half of the season, coupled with consistent performances, saw him match New Zealand legend Ivan Mauger and Swedish star Tony Rickardsson’s record haul of six world titles.
Kurtz ended his 2025 season as an FIM Speedway of Nations world champion with Australia in Torun, as well as delivering the greatest debut season in Speedway GP history.
Asked if he was surprised by Kurtz’s debut-season surge, Zmarzlik said: “I wouldn’t say it surprised me, because I knew his potential.
“What impressed me was his consistency and confidence throughout the season. He was very well prepared, made good decisions on track and clearly believed in himself. That combination made him a very tough opponent.”
Zmarzlik achieved his best-ever SGP points total of 189 in 2021 – a year when he was part of a storied title race with eventual champion Artem Laguta. It appears a close championship challenge brings out the best in the 30-year-old.
Zmarzlik said: “Strong rivals always push you to improve. Brady was very fast, very consistent and never gave up, which meant there was no room for mistakes. This kind of rivalry forces you to stay focused every single round and brings out the best version of yourself.”