Slaw Dog
Well, we can eliminate one rider for Team USA at this year’s Motocross of Nations at RedBud.
Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull GasGas’ Justin Barcia has withdrawn his name from consideration. Many expected Barcia to be an option to drop down and ride the 250 in MX2 alongside what many to believe will be Eli Tomac and Chase Sexton on a 450.
Barcia made the following announcement on IG:
“I bleed USA. I’m always honored to represent team USA at the MXoN.
Unfortunately, I have pulled myself out of the running to represent on a 250 this year. I rode the bike a week ago and told the crew the bike and myself could bring it home for USA but after a ton of debating I don’t believe it would be fair to the team when I’m not able to 100% prepare on a 250 right now.
“After Washougal I flew back to California to work with @tld_raceteam on my 450. I haven’t gotten to a spot this year where I feel I’m riding to my full potential so I have to keep giving my 450 season all my attention which won’t allow me to dedicate enough time to prepare for a 250 MXoN run.
“I’m very thankful for this opportunity, I wish team USA the best of luck and look forward to another opportunity next season 🇺🇸 ❤️🙌🏻”
So, who does this leave for the MX2 spot? Many believe it will be Christian Craig dropping down to race MX2 but we will have to wait until Unadilla when the team is expected to be announced.
Main image: GasGas
