Slaw
Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, is proud to announce an extensive update to its industry-leading flagship Motocross model, the new 2026 YZ450F. Faced with the complex challenge of improving on a bike already widely considered the benchmark of the ultra-competitive 450cc four-stroke class, Yamaha engineers put significant focus into refining power delivery and handling performance to achieve a level of precision, control and tuneability that sets a new class standard: the easiest bike to ride fast. Learn more!
We are currently in the midst of one of my favorite times of the year: Silly season. Riders moving teams, debuting new gear, and seeing familiar faces in different places is awesome. A lot of deals have already been announced with a bunch more to come as you will see below.
Keep in mind, this does not take into account riders that are staying at their current homes like Jett and Hunter Lawrence, Cooper Webb, Malcolm Stewart and so on. The below is just riders that have already switched teams or that will in the coming weeks.
450 SuperMotocross Silly Season Tracker
Jason Anderson signed with Pipes Motorsports Group and will race for the Twisted Tea Suzuki presented by Progressive Insurance aboard the Suzuki RM-Z450 for 2026. He will debut in the 2025 FIM World Supercross Championship with the team.
Justin Barcia and GasGas officially parted ways after five years together. He is expected to sign with Ducati for next year.
Christian Craig has left Monster Energy/Yamaha Star Racing and has signed with Quad Lock Honda. He will debut with the team in the FIM World Supercross Championship.
Haiden Deegan signed a multi-year extension with Monster Energy/Yamaha Star Racing and will move up to the 450 Class beginning at the 2026 Pro Motocross opener. He will defend his 250SX West Region title in Monster Energy Supercross.
Dylan Ferrandis is leaving Phoenix Racing Honda and is expected to sign with Ducati alongside Barcia.
Garrett Marchbanks appears to be inline to get the second 450 spot on Monster Energy Kawasaki alongside Chase Sexton, as Steve Matthes reported last week.
Colt Nichols signed a one-year extension with Pipes Motorsports Group and will continue with the Twisted Tea Suzuki presented by Progressive Insurance team.
Jorge Prado and Monster Energy Kawasaki have gone their separate ways after just one season. He is expected to join Red Bull KTM.
Ken Roczen re-signed with Pipes Motorsports Group for 2026. He will continue racing with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki team aboard the RM-Z450.
Chase Sexton and KTM announced they are going their separate ways after two seasons together. Sexton is expected to sign with Monster Energy Kawasaki.
Eli Tomac is leaving Monster Energy/Yamaha Star Racing and is expected to sign with Red Bull KTM.
