Wednesday, September 18th 2024

News

Chance Hymas to Undergo Knee Surgery

• Procedure will force Hymas to miss the Motocross of Nations
• Goal is to return to racing in time for the ’25 AMA 250SX East series

TORRANCE, Calif. (September 18, 2024) – Team Honda HRC Progressive announced today that Chance Hymas will undergo surgery on his left knee on September 24 in Nashville, Tennessee. As a result, the Idaho native will be forced to sit out the Motocross of Nations.

The procedure comes a little over a year after Hymas last underwent an operation on the same joint. The Idaho native then reinjured his ACL during training just before the 2024 season got underway, but he has been able to perform at a high level for much of this year. During the AMA Pro Motocross series, Hymas scored the first overall victory of his professional career and tallied a total of four podium overall results and an additional four top-five overall finishes.

Unfortunately, Hymas aggravated the injury during the opening SuperMotocross round in Charlotte, North Carolina, on September 7. With the goal of retaining his spot on Team USA for the October 6 Motocross of Nations at Matterley Basin in England, he pulled out of the remainder of the SMX series, but after further consultation, Hymas and his team have decided it is more prudent to have the injury repaired as soon as possible. Even though there was high confidence that, after two weeks off, he would be able to perform at a high level, the possibility of reaggravating the injury and adversely affecting Team USA’s result was also a consideration. Luckily, Star Yamaha and Cooper Webb have stepped up and volunteered to take Chance’s spot for the event, with Webb dropping down to a 250 from his usual 450. Meanwhile, Hymas will focus on returning to action in time for the 2025 AMA Supercross 250 East series.

“I’m absolutely gutted,” Hymas said. “I have waited for the opportunity to represent my country at MXoN since I was a kid. I was proud and excited to wear the Red, White and Blue. I was doing everything in my power to be ready for MXoN, but I’ve been battling issues with my knee this entire season. The team and myself decided the stakes are too high to take chances at the MXoN, and I need to get my knee fixed for the future. My sole focus now is getting back to top form and being prepared to compete for championships in 2025. I want to say thank you to Cooper for stepping up and taking my place. I’ll be rooting for him and Team USA from back home. THANK YOU!”

“We’re really, really gutted for Chance, as he has gone through more than his fair share of bad luck in the past year and a half,” said Lars Lindstrom, Manager of the Honda HRC Progressive team. “We know how important this event was to him and the team. Chance has proven that he has the speed to be competitive, and I know that when he’s at full health, he’ll be tough to beat. Although we were excited to support him at the Motocross of Nations, we’re grateful to Star Yamaha and Cooper Webb for stepping up for Team USA. We wish them well. We’re pulling for Chance to have a smooth operation, a productive recovery, and a successful 2025.”

(Source : HRC)

TRIUMPH RACING WISHES JOEY SAVATGY ALL THE BEST AS PARTNERSHIP CONCLUDES AHEAD OF SMX PLAYOFFS

Thu 05 Sep 2024

A mutual decision between Triumph Racing and Joey Savatgy sees the American racer move on to new opportunities ahead of the upcoming SuperMotocross World Championship. Since Joey pointed-out of the 250SX class in 2018, he has been ineligible to race in the 250SX category, despite petitions for the AMA Supercross rules to match the Pro Motocross rules. As a result, it was agreed that the best option for Savatgy’s career was for him to pursue other opportunities.

Following Triumph’s successful first season in the 250 classes in MXGP, AMA Supercross, and Pro Motocross, the decision was made to concentrate efforts in 2025 on expanding and improving the 250 programme, before moving into the premier classes in 2026. Since signing Joey on a two-year deal, Triumph has been campaigning with Feld and the AMA to have the Georgia native’s 250SX class eligibility restored. Despite the significant efforts made, it was recently confirmed that Savatgy would still not be able to line up in 250SX in 2025, as the current rules would remain unchanged.

To honour the initial contract made by Triumph Racing, Joey was offered the chance to compete in 250MX only for 2025; however, it was ultimately decided by both parties that the best resolution was for Savatgy to move on with his career at another team.

Competing in Pro Motocross throughout the summer of 2024, Joey enjoyed many highlights in the 250MX class, with his best overall finish of sixth coming at the Southwick National in June. Despite a heavy fall in moto one at the Red Bud National and missing both races one week later, Joey went on to finish the season 12th in the final standings.

Everyone at Triumph wishes Joey well for the future, and thanks him for his contributions to our 2024 race programme.

Joey Savatgy: “Firstly, I would like to thank Triumph Racing for giving me the opportunity to race for the team this year. We were all hoping the AMA rule would be amended to allow me to race 250SX next year, but unfortunately, this didn’t happen. Triumph knows how hard it was for me to sit out half the season this year, and they were nice enough to give me the option to be released early in order for me to race a full season next year. Thanks again to the whole team and I wish them all the best for the future.”

Bobby Hewitt – Triumph Racing USA Team Principal: “It’s been a real pleasure working with Joey, and it’s unfortunate that he won’t be competing in this year’s SMX Playoffs with Triumph Racing. While we’ve been waiting for the AMA and the Steering Committee to confirm their decision regarding Joey’s eligibility to compete in 250SX, we allowed him to actively seek other opportunities in the 450 class, just in case this wasn’t an option. In the end, it was decided that he could not return to 250SX. We were, however, more than happy to honour Joey’s two-year contract by having him race for us next summer in the 250 class of Pro Motocross, but ultimately, it was decided that the best resolution was for us to part ways. On behalf of Triumph Racing, I wish Joey all the best for 2025 and thank him for everything he’s done for the team since he joined us last winter.”

Ian Kimber – Head of Global Racing Programmes, Triumph Motorcycles:“Joey’s tenure with Triumph has shown moments of great promise, and whilst we haven’t been able to fully capitalise on them, it is a shame to lose his experience from our team. However, with our decision to prioritise our 250 programme in 2025 and Joey’s ineligibility to ride 250SX due to the current rules, we have mutually agreed to let Joey out of his contract to ensure that his career isn’t detrimentally affected by only having him race 250MX again next year. I want to thank Joey for the hard work he has shown throughout the outdoor season this year and I wish him well for the future.”

August 29, 2024 

— TORRANCE, Calif.

• Shimoda will campaign a 2025 CRF450R in round 7 at Off Road Village in Saitama
• First Japanese rider to score wins in AMA SX, MX, SMX

Honda Racing Corporation announced today that Team Honda HRC rider Jo Shimoda will take part in the seventh round of the D.I.D All Japan Motocross Championship, to be held at Off Road Village in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture. The event takes place on September 28 and 29, one week after completion of the SuperMotocross series. Shimoda, who finished fourth in the 2024 AMA Supercross 250SX West series and turned in three overall podium results in the AMA Pro Motocross 250 series before his collarbone injury, will compete in Japan aboard the new 2025 CRF450R. Without complications, Shimoda’s collarbone should not be an issue at that point.

The Japanese native has past experience in the JMX championship, having campaigned the Meihan round with another manufacturer in 2022, when he posted 1-1 moto finishes in the 450 class.

« I’m stoked on the opportunity to race in my home country, » Shimoda said. « The fans there show me so much support, and I want to thank them by going back to race as often as I can. »

« It’s great that Jo is going back to Japan to compete in front of his home fans, as well as our partners at Honda Motor and HRC, » said Brandon Wilson, American Honda Manager of Racing & Advertising. « The support we receive from Japan is such a vital component of our success, and opportunities like this are a great way for us to show our appreciation. Last year Trey Canard did an exceptional job at the Saitama round, giving the CR Electric Proto its race debut, and we’re confident that Jo will have a positive showing aboard the new CRF450R. »

# # #

About Honda Power Sports & Products
Honda Power Sports & Products is a business unit of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., to conduct the sales, marketing and operational activities for power equipment and powersports products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers in the United States. Honda powersports products include motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and side-by-sides. Honda power equipment products include generators, walk-behind lawn mowers, pumps, snow blowers, tillers, string trimmers, outboard marine engines and small, general-purpose engines for residential, commercial and rental applications.

ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA’S RJ HAMPSHIRE RETURNING FOR BUDDS CREEK NATIONALBACK ON TRACK FOR FINAL ROUNDS OF 250MX SERIES FOLLOWING WRIST INJURY

RJ Hampshire will make his anticipated return to competition in Round 10 of the 2024 AMA Pro Motocross Championship, the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider set to make his first outdoor appearance of the season at the Budds Creek National.

After capturing the 250SX West title in the AMA Supercross Championship in May, Hampshire was unfortunately injured during media day at Fox Raceway’s opening round of Pro Motocross. Following an extensive recovery period, he is now fit to rejoin the 250MX Class for the final two rounds onboard his Husqvarna FC 250 Rockstar Edition.

« It’s been a tough injury, but I feel like there is no better way to get ready for the SMX rounds than getting some gate drops in,” Hampshire commented. “I have had a few days back on the bike and the last couple days were good enough to make the call on going racing this weekend. Budds is one of my favorite tracks and has always treated me well in the past – see you Saturday! »

Nathan Ramsey, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager: « The team is very excited to have RJ back on the bike to close out the Pro Motocross season. It was a tough break when RJ sustained an injury at press day for the opening round at Pala, especially after his impressive finish to the 2024 Supercross season where he clinched the West Coast Championship. RJ has shown incredible dedication and resilience during his recovery, and we’re excited to see him back in action. As we set our sights on the SuperMotocross season starting in September, it’s crucial for RJ to get some valuable seat time before the SMX season kicks off. We’re confident that his return will be a strong one and look forward to logging laps and gate drops at Budds Creek and Ironman before shifting our focus to SMX. »

Hampshire’s late inclusion in the final portion of Pro Motocross will count toward his seeding position for the upcoming SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) Playoffs, which will commence on Saturday, September 7, at zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He finished third in the inaugural 250SMX point standings last season.

Jett Lawrence to Miss Remainder of AMA Pro Motocross With Thumb Injury

• Torn UCL incurred in a practice crash this week
• Lawrence to undergo a procedure on Thursday
• Goal is to return for SuperMotocross title defense

DADE CITY, Florida (July 3, 2024) – Having injured his thumb in a small practice crash Tuesday, Team Honda HRC rider Jett Lawrence will undergo a procedure this week, which will result in him sitting out the remainder of the AMA Pro Motocross series.

The fall took place on Tuesday, July 2, at the “Dog Pound” (the Lawrence family’s private training facility in Florida). Later the same day, Jett underwent X-ray and MRI scans, and it was determined that he had a torn ulnar collateral ligament, or UCL. [Technical diagnosis: proximal thumb avulsion fracture at the insertion of the UCL, a sprain of that same ligament, and an avulsive ligamentous tear of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) volar plate from its metacarpal attachment.]

Jett is scheduled to undergo a procedure on Thursday, July 4, at the Steadman Clinic in Colorado, after which he will focus on making a return in time for the SuperMotocross opener on September 7 in Concord, North Carolina.

“It’s obviously a bummer, but it’s part of our sport,” Lawrence said. “It was honestly a pretty small crash, but it is what it is. I’ve been pretty lucky with injuries in my career so far, so I guess it’s just my turn. I was happy with the progress we’ve made in the championship since my setback at Hangtown, and I was excited to try and keep my championship. That obviously won’t happen now, but I have a good team around me and will focus on getting healthy again and coming back at 100 percent. I look forward to cheering on Hunter and doing whatever I can to help him the rest of the series.”

Earlier this year, Jett earned the AMA Supercross 450 Championship, which was the seventh professional AMA crown of his young career. Having scored four of five overall wins so far in his AMA Pro Motocross 450 title defense, he currently sits a close second in the points standings to brother and teammate Hunter Lawrence.

“We’re fully behind Jett and will support him through his recovery,” said Lars Lindstrom, Manager for Team Honda HRC. “It’s pretty crazy that three of the championship’s top riders have now been sidelined with the same injury, especially one that’s typically pretty rare. Of course it’s disappointing, but even though Jett has won the last seven championships he’s competed in, he’s still so young and has a lot of success ahead of him. Physically he’s a freak of nature and a specimen, so to keep it that way, allowing him to heal to 100 percent is the goal. With Hunter currently leading the points chase, I like our chances of keeping the AMA Pro Motocross 450 Championship with Honda, and we look forward to working on that this weekend at RedBud. In the meantime, everyone on the team and at Honda sends their love Jett’s way; we’ll miss having him on the line!”

While the 18-year-old has been cleared of any additional injuries, Beaumer is currently following the MX Sports Pro Racing concussion protocol and will return to competition once he is back to 100 percent fitness.

It’s been a promising first full outdoor campaign for Beaumer onboard his KTM 250 SX-F FACTORY EDITION, achieving a career-best finish of P6 at High Point’s fourth round. He has claimed three top-10 overall results in five rounds and is currently positioned 11th in the standings despite being unable to finish Moto 2 this past weekend.

Ian Harrison – Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager:« It was so unfortunate to see Julien crash in the opening lap of Moto 2 at Southwick, after showing strides at High Point with a sixth overall. Julien’s health is our first priority and it is a positive that he did not sustain further injury. After receiving further evaluations this week, he will sit out RedBud and will diligently follow concussion protocol until cleared to race. We eagerly anticipate his full recovery and return to racing at 100 percent. »

Additional information on Julien’s condition will be made available in due course, with an update to be provided once a possible return date is determined.

SHIFTING UP: TRIUMPH POWER FROM SUPERCROSS TO PRO MOTOCROSS

• Debut Supercross season yields holeshots and Heat Race win
• Looking ahead to 11 round Pro Motocross series
• Joey Savatgy to make his racing debut on Triumph TF 250-X

Shaking up the world of motocross is no easy feat, but that’s exactly what Triumph set out to do in 2024 competing with the Triumph TF 250-X in both the Monster Energy AMA 250SX East Championship and Pro Motocross Championship. The full season of Supercross delivered holeshots, a Heat Race win, and fighting for podium positions. But now attention turns to the outdoor season.

Sole rider Jalek Swoll enjoyed his most successful season in Supercross on the all-new machine. Despite picking up a back injury early in the season, the 23-year old from Belleview, Florida, valiantly flew the flag for Triumph over the course of the nine-round Monster Energy AMA 250SX East Championship. 

Although a debut podium fell just out of reach after a crash fighting for second place at Round 8 in Philadelphia, the #33 bike was consistently running top five pace, managed two holeshots and his – and Triumph’s – first Heat Race win. The aim was to finish the championship in the top five and Jalek placed seventh overall. If it wasn’t for two incidents outside of his control in the opening rounds, the nine points needed for that position would have easily been achieved. 

The bright lights of the arenas now give way to the challenging terrains of the outdoor tracks when the 2024 Pro Motocross season kicks off on May 25 at the Fox Raceway in Pala, California. For the 11 rounds and 22 motos of the Nationals, Triumph Racing can count on the youthful exuberance of Jalek Swoll joined by his multi-time race winner teammate, Joey Savatgy, on the #17 Triumph TF 250-X. 

Savatgy has spent all year preparing for the outdoor season, where previously in the 250 class between 2013 and 2018 he has finished twice in the top three overall standings, achieving 14 visits to the podium with seven of those being on the top step.

Jalek Swoll #33
“Being part of a legendary brand and being their only rider throughout the Supercross season made me proud. We certainly learned a lot about ourselves, as a team, and with the bike. A lot of credit goes to Triumph as the TF 250-X started out in a really competitive way. The bike corners so well; it’s super light and nimble so I can move it around how I want to.

“Looking ahead to the Nationals, I feel really good. If I’m honest I prefer the outdoors and I’m definitely pumped and excited to showcase what I and the bike can do. The goal is to fight for podiums at each round as I’m plenty capable of being up there and the bike is, too. The Grand Prix guys are already outdoors and so we can fast forward a few things from what they’ve learned.

“The Nationals are something else. The depth of field on the gate is insane and all the fast guys are there, so it means a lot when you can put some good results on the table. You either love Pala or hate it. It’s certainly not my best track, but it’s the season opener and so everyone is pumped and ready to go, I know I definitely am.”

Joey Savatgy #17
“My off-season has been long! I’ve not necessarily been sitting around, but watching the racing and not being part of it hasn’t been easy. But those were the cards we were dealt with, so the time has been an extended training block with a lot of riding outdoors. We’ve made a lot of refinements with the bike and also with myself, both mentally and physically.

“From when I first rode the bike to now, we’ve made heaps of improvements, but we will continue to learn. We have a smart crew around us to get the boat pointed in the right direction. The vibe with the team is great; they’re so knowledgeable and with them having some good results in Supercross, it’s such a confidence booster to me. I would have loved to be out there with them, but my chance is almost here. 

“My goal for the season is to go and win – I feel connected to the bike. A lack of gate drops is never ideal, but I know the Triumph TF 250-X well, my fitness is good and so I think we can do some damage. My experience will be an advantage with a long season and a lot of motos. For the times when it just isn’t clicking, it’s about maximising the points and doing the best I can do. I’ll get the wins if they’re there, but on the weekends that don’t come as easy I’ll remember the long game and grab the points. If we can leave the first round in a good place mentally, it will set the tone for the rest of the season.”

Bobby Hewitt – Triumph Racing Team Principal (US): 
“There was a lot of questions about the Triumph TF 250-X coming into 2024, but after nine races in Supercross, a lot of development and testing, the gap to our competitors is a lot smaller. I feel a lot better coming into the outdoor season than what I did for the indoors. 

“If we can call this the midpoint of our year, there are two main highlights so far for me in 2024; lining up for the first round in Detroit was historical, and then of course there was Jalek winning his and Triumph’s first Heat Race in Philadelphia. Our toughest moment had to be in Indianapolis when we had a sensor issue and Jalek wasn’t able to complete the final race of the triple header. That hurt our position, points and morale. But it was also a learning experience and something we’ve been able to remedy.

“The Nationals are very difficult for riders. In the past five seasons there’s been an average of 121 entries, and from those nine complete every race with just five of those scoring points in every moto. It’s tough! But Jalek’s had an incredible year so far with great moments, which gives him confidence and motivation coming into outdoors. 

“Joey coming into the outdoors is a huge positive for the team and Jalek; it gives him a teammate to talk about different lines and other details. Sure, it does make our life busier each weekend, but this year has been very stressful having all of our eggs in one basket, so it’s nice to have two riders out on track.

“I have one goal and that’s to win the championship; everything else is just the process of getting there. We know the bike a lot better, have a solid base and a motivated team and riders. For Pala, if both riders are in the top 10 of both motos, I’d be very pleased about that. By the time we reach High Point Raceway, the fourth round of the season, we will have experienced different track types, conditions and weather, so after that I’d be expecting top fives and podiums from the mid-season.”

Ian Kimber – Triumph Head Of Off-Road Programmes
« We’re all excited by the transition from Supercross into the outdoor season. The results in Supercross, coupled with the competitiveness we have seen in MX2, give us confidence in the capabilities of the Triumph TF 250-X to perform in a multitude of conditions. We hope to see the same kind of holeshots, and front-running pace that we have seen in our other races so far.

« We’ve witnessed Jalek having his best ever Supercross season and now heading outdoors with Joey finally joining the squad not only sees us bolster our rider line-up, but also adds an experienced hand to the race team. Although the rule change didn’t go in our favour for Supercross, it has given Joey the extra time to prepare for the outdoor season and he’s keen to show everyone what he’s capable of. »

Ahead of his maiden motocross campaign since joining the team this season, Sexton has swiftly adapted to the KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION outdoors, and is coming off a spectacular Main Event victory at Salt Lake City’s AMA Supercross Championship Finals last weekend. With momentum increasing, the 24-year-old is determined to build upon his six-career 450MX overall wins over the course of this year’s 11-round series and to factor in the title race.

Chase Sexton:« I’m ready for outdoors! The team and I made some good development inroads by the end of the Supercross season to make me feel comfortable and at home with the bike and team. Winning in Salt Lake really bolstered my confidence, and we want to keep that momentum going into Pala MX this weekend. We will keep doing what we’ve been doing all year long and working to get better with every race. I know I have a good group of people around me, so plan to throw everything at it this motocross season. »

Fan favorite Plessinger will make his anticipated and welcome return from a fractured elbow that unfortunately ended his Supercross season prematurely. The Cowboy – himself a former 250MX National Champion – has been busy preparing in the background during recent weeks, due to race his way back to 100 percent fitness when the gates drop and the season opens. Last year, the 28-year-old finished third in the final 450MX standings with three podiums to his credit.

Aaron Plessinger:« I love racing outdoors, so can’t wait for the season to start – outdoor fans are my people! I’ve been back on my bike riding motocross for a few weeks now after injuring my elbow during Supercross. It’s actually given me a bit of a head start on the other guys, so I guess that’s the positive on what was a negative of having my SX season cut short. I’m looking forward to getting amongst the fans every weekend and having a good time with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team crew every weekend. »

The 250MX Class will be led by two-time MX2 World Champion Vialle on his 250 SX-F FACTORY EDITION, the Frenchman who just wrapped up the 2024 AMA Supercross 250SX East Championship this month. Already a Pro Motocross round winner at Southwick last year, the 23-year-old has increased experience this time around – certain to capitalize from the confidence gained following his title-winning season in the stadiums.

Tom Vialle:« It’s nice to come into the start of the 2024 MX series with confidence and momentum on the back of winning the 250SX East title and with knowledge on my side from last year. I’m returning to tracks that I got to race on last year, which has been the hardest part for me transitioning to racing in the US – racing on new tracks every week. It certainly helped me in returning to many of the same locations in Supercross, so I’m sure it will be the same for Pro Motocross this year. Every race outdoors also counts towards the overall SMX series points, so my goal is to be consistent and on the box every weekend. »

As for 18-year-old revelation Beaumer, the highly-regarded rookie made two appearances at the end of last season and instantly claimed an impressive ninth position overall at Budds Creek on debut. His Supercross campaign in the 250SX West division further displayed his ability to accelerate his learning curve in the professional ranks and that will play into his favor as the season progresses.

Julien Beaumer:« I’m really looking forward to racing my first full season with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team outdoors. I was lucky enough to make my pro debut and race the final few MX rounds last season to get a little bit of early experience, which will definitely help me this year. My goal this season is to learn as much as I can and get better with every round – I want to be on the podium this season. »

With a positive AMA Supercross season complete, Pro Motocross marks the second phase of the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) series, taking off this Saturday, May 25, at the Fox Raceway National and spanning 11 rounds across the United States before culminating at Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville, Indiana, on August 24. It’s yet another opportunity to challenge for championships for the READY TO RACE Red Bull KTM Factory Racing roster.

Ian Harrison – Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager:« We are excited for the Pro Motocross season and having all four riders on track at the opening round. Chase was extremely strong last year outdoors and I will say it will be a high-pressure situation to keep that same momentum heading into the 2024 season – time will soon tell in a few days’ time here. Aaron has been doing a great job getting ready for the season, his elbow has healed quickly, and his bike is basically where it was at last year, but with a couple of small improvements. He seems like he’s in a good spot and I’m happy to see him back for this weekend. On the 250 side, I think Tom will go into the outdoors very confident after winning the Supercross championship and already being a two-time MX2 World Champion, so momentum is on his side, too. Julien is entering his first full season, so we are expecting him to grow as the season progresses, and he has great teammates around him to help with that progression. »

5/24/2024

RJ HAMPSHIRE SIDELINED AHEAD OF AMA PRO MOTOCROSS SEASON OPENERROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING RIDER INJURED DURING MEDIA DAY

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rider RJ Hampshire has unfortunately been sidelined ahead of Round 1 of the 2024 AMA Pro Motocross Championship in Pala, California, after injuring his wrist during media day on Thursday afternoon.

The 28-year-old, fresh from capturing the 250SX West Championship in AMA Supercross two weeks ago, underwent immediate surgery yesterday evening, but it remains unclear when he will be fit to return to the 11-round outdoor series.

Nathan Ramsey, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager:« The highs and the lows of this sport are sometimes tough to swallow, but unfortunately with RJ taking a spill on press day here at Pala, he has injured his wrist. It’s a setback, but we can all get through this – I know that RJ and the crew will stay positive. RJ’s tough and he’s mentally strong, so he’ll be back as soon as possible. »

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing looks forward to welcoming RJ back once he is back to 100 percent health. The team will field Malcolm Stewart and Christian Craig in 450MX, as well as rookie Casey Cochran in 250MX, at this Saturday’s season-opening Fox Raceway National.

ROCKSTAR ENERGY HUSQVARNA FACTORY RACING TEAM AIMS FOR AMA PRO MOTOCROSS SUCCESSOUTDOOR SERIES SET TO DROP THE GATES ON 2024 SEASON BEGINNING AT PALA THIS WEEKEND

The 2024 AMA Pro Motocross Championship beckons for the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team, fresh from RJ Hampshire’s title-winning achievements in the 250SX West division of AMA Supercross and with the motivation to maintain that momentum into the great outdoors. Round 1 will take place in Pala, California, this Saturday.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing will arrive at the Fox Raceway National with Hampshire to be joined by newcomer Casey Cochran in the 250MX category, while Spaniard Guillem Farres continues to recover from a broken femur sustained in February. The 450MX ranks will see Malcolm Stewart rejoined by Christian Craig in time for the Pro Motocross season.

Hampshire lines up as a legitimate title threat in the 250MX category with experience on his side at 28 years of age, certain to benefit from his knowledge gained in the stadiums on his way to a first-career professional championship victory. He has claimed four overall wins during his career, now aiming to deliver in a similar fashion to what he managed during the Supercross series.

« We’re super excited leading into the outdoors, » explained Hampshire.« Coming off the west coast championship in Supercross, we all want to carry that momentum into the new season and we have a lot to look forward to. We have a really good base, and I feel like we’re going to be in a good position right off the bat this season, so I look forward to getting back racing at Pala for the opener. »

Still only at the age of 17, Cochran is a multiple-time AMA Amateur National Motocross Champion as a result of his success at Loretta Lynn’s prior to turning pro full-time for 2024. After lining up at two rounds last season, it’s expected that he will gain a wealth of experience throughout the 11 rounds this year, and has the potential to make an impact as the season progresses equipped with the Husqvarna Motorcycles FC 250 Rockstar Edition.

« Coming into my first season outdoors, I’m super excited for the full 11 rounds this year, » Cochran commented. « Hopefully we can be in there racing with some good guys, while getting some good experience and results along the way. I’ve got a good team behind me and am feeling good on the bike, so I’m looking forward to getting out there and competing, showing everyone what we can do in my rookie year. Let’s go! »

While Hampshire and Cochran will fly to flag in the 250 Class to commence the 2024 series, a vast amount of attention will be directed Stewart’s way in 450MX. Injuries have meant that he’s only made minimal appearances outdoors in recent years, but that’s not causing him to lower his outlook on the eve of the upcoming season ahead. Instead, he’s looking to keep improving his results, as he did in the closing stages of the 450SX.

« I’m very excited, very motivated, after having all of last season off of racing, » Stewart said. « For me, I’m thankful to continue being able to race, and to build on what we did in Supercross. I’m looking forward to the outdoors and also building into SMX later this year – all racing is good racing over here! I’m ready to line up, enjoy it, and see what we can do. »

California native Christian Craig – who previously resided in the Temecula region during the majority of his career – is back on his Husqvarna Motorcycles FC 450 Rockstar Edition following issues with a re-aggravated elbow injury that sidelined him toward the end of February. Like teammate Stewart, Craig missed the entire outdoor season last year, but is excited to be returning in time for the season-opener.

« I’m excited to get this outdoor season started, » Craig explained.« Unfortunately, we won’t be coming in with a lot of time on the bike after dealing with this elbow injury for a while, but nonetheless I’m looking forward to getting some gate drops and building throughout the season. The bike is in a good spot already, so let’s get the season going! »

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing Team Manager, Nathan Ramsey, added: « Making the transition from Supercross into Pro Motocross with the one weekend off in between is pretty tight, but obviously we have some good momentum, and we’ve squeezed in some motocross testing along the way. I feel really good about the season ahead and I think it will be one of those things, if we can start the season on a high note, hopefully we can keep that up and be consistent through the long season to fight for the championship in the end. RJ is in a good spot, Malcolm is excited too, Casey as our rookie coming in has been riding good as well, plus we’re excited to have Christian back, coming off an injury. The goal for him is to get started and build as the series goes on into the middle stages of the season, which is also when we are hoping to see Guillem back at the races. »

The first round of 11 scheduled will begin this Saturday, May 25th, in Southern California, before travelling the country and arriving in Indiana at the end of August, where champions will be crowned in the 2024 AMA Pro Motocross Championship across the 450MX and 250MX categories.