Slaw
We will not see Haiden Deegan or Justin Cooper or any Monster Energy/Yamaha Star Racing rider at this year’s Motocross of Nations at Ernee, France the first weekend of October. The team released a statement today confirming they will not participate in the event due to the demanding schedule of the SMX series.
There were multiple reports that we could see Deegan or Cooper on Team USA this year, but that no longer looks to be the case. Who does this leave for Team USA? That will be determined this weekend at Ironman as the team is expected to be announced at the Pro Motocross season finale.
Over the weekend, Steve Matthes, of PulpMX Hockey fame, hinted at the possibility of a team made up of Garrett Marchbanks, Levi Kitchen and Chance Hymas with one of the 250 riders moving up to the 450.
It would be an interesting move for the AMA and Team USA heading into the race, but as we’ve seen multiple times, these things tend to change frequently. Stay tuned…
This also means that Cole Davies (New Zealand) and Kayden Minear (Australia) will not compete either.
Below is the full release posted on Monday:
Due to the demanding schedule of the SMX series, and after factoring in the associated travel and support costs, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing and Yamaha Motor USA have collectively decided to withdraw both its 250 and 450 teams from consideration in participating in the upcoming 2026 MXoN in Ernée, France.
“After numerous discussions between the team principals and Yamaha management, both Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing and Yamaha Motor USA have collectively made the difficult decision to step back from this year’s MXoN competition,” said Jim Roach, Yamaha Racing Manager.
“We’re choosing to prioritize the health and safety of our riders, which includes affording them, and the entire team, a period of time to recover from the 2026 season. When you factor in the logistical challenges and costs of shipping and converting bikes to FIM spec, the team respectfully wants to stay focused on its continued preparation for the upcoming 2027 SMX season.”
The team expresses its gratitude to the AMA for consideration, and appreciates its fans, partners, and the broader moto community for their understanding and support.
