LEVI KITCHEN CAPTURES THE 2026 250 CLASS SMX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP™

September 26, 2026 | Thunder Ridge Nature Arena | Ridgedale, MO

Foothill Ranch, Calif. (Sept. 26, 2026) – Monster Energy® Pro Circuit Kawasaki rider Levi Kitchen clinches the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship™ in the 250 Class at the season finale in Ridgedale, Missouri. After a standout year highlighted by multiple wins and numerous podium finishes, Kitchen secured his first championship and Kawasaki’s 39th in the 250 Class.

Kitchen’s stellar performance all year long set him up for success heading into the SMX Playoffs, where he entered the final three rounds sitting second in the series standings. After taking the overall win at Playoff 1, he moved into the series points lead. Facing a triple-points payout in the final round, Kitchen remained consistent and was able to score a podium finish to secure his first SMX championship. Through 31 rounds, Kitchen accumulated four moto wins, two overall victories and 12 overall podiums aboard his KX™250. 

Kitchen’s achievement adds to the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s storied legacy, marking its 32nd championship and first SMX No. 1 plate. As Kitchen and the team celebrate this major milestone, they look forward to closing out the year representing their country at the 79th FIM Motocross of Nations in Ernée, France.

“Winning this championship feels incredible. I was on course this summer to wrap up my first Pro Motocross title but had some issues at the final round that didn’t allow me to complete that goal, so being able to end the year with the SMX championship is exactly what I needed. I put myself in a good position coming into this series. I just wanted to stay consistent and in the mix. The whole Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team has worked incredibly hard to give me a bike I felt comfortable and fast on all year long.I’m excited to celebrate this a little bit before we head to France for MXoN.”  

 – Levi Kitchen

“Watching Levi earn his first championship today was extremely rewarding. He faced many challenges this year, but watching the determination he rides with every time he’s on the track is inspiring. He never gave up and always gave his best effort every weekend. I’m very proud of Levi and the whole Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team for the continued effort they displayed throughout the whole year.”

 – Mitch Payton

Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki Team Owner