While the powersports industry has seen an unexpected boom in sales throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the professional industry has taken a hit with two huge teams—GEICO Honda and JGR Suzuki—both closing their doors in 2020. The closure of the teams has left many riders, mechanics, etc. without jobs heading into 2021.
Fortunately, for many of the riders, they have already found new homes. Let’s take a look at where they ended up.
GEICO Honda
Official
Jeremy Martin | Monster Energy/Star Racing Yamaha
This was very unexpected, as Jeremy and the team didn’t have the best ending to their relationship, but hey, when you can add one of the best 250 riders and pair him with the best bike in the class, it’s easy to mend fences.
Chase Sexton | Honda HRC
This one has been done and dusted, but Sexton did ride for the team in supercross (capturing a second title) so he’s included. As you know, Sexton has moved to the 450 Class on a long-term deal with Honda HRC. He rode for the team in Lucas Oil Pro Motocross.
Christian Craig | Monster Energy/Star Racing Yamaha
Craig joins his former GEICO Honda teammate on Star.
Not Official
Hunter Lawrence | Honda HRC
Not official… yet. But Hunter has a deal with Honda HRC to complete its 250 squad.
Jett Lawrence | Honda HRC
Not official… yet. But, yeah, Jett will join his brother on Honda HRC.
Jo Shimoda | Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki
This is not official either, but rumors are strong that Shimoda will join Mitch Payton’s squad for 2021.
Carson Mumford | A Honda Team
Lot of rumors floating around here, but Honda wants to find a home for Mumford and Michael Linday’s Chaparral/FXR Honda team has been mentioned the most.
JGRMX
Official
Joey Savatgy | Rocky Mountain ATV/MC-KTM-WPS
This one was surprising. Savatgy tested with MotoConcepts Honda but didn’t get a deal. Then, kind of out of nowhere, Rocky Mountain ATV/MC KTM announced at its team intro that Joey would replace Blake Baggett on the team.
Alex Martin | Manluk/Rock River Yamaha/Merge Racing
A-Mart finds a home with his old team—Rock River Yamaha—who merged with Manluk and Merge Racing.
Unknown
Fredrik Noren
At this time, Noren has not announced plans for next year.
Main image: GEICO Honda
Shimoda has pictures of his Monster Bell helmet, and Fox Pro Circuit jersey on Instagram.