Tomac Wins Oakland Supercross by Less Than One Second

Jett Lawrence Calm, Cool, and Fast for the 250SX Class Victory in Oakland

Tomac’s 48th 450SX Class win ties him with Ricky Carmichael for third all-time

OAKLAND, CA – February 19, 2023 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac took the checkered flag with a thrilling final lap defense inside RingCentral Coliseum in Oakland, California for the re-scheduled Round 2 of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season.

The Monster Energy AMA Supercross season lit up the Oakland sky for the 15th year of racing

The Monster Energy AMA Supercross season lit up the Oakland sky for the 15thyear of racing. RingCentral Coliseum delivered incredible action to the Northern California race fans.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

After a last-lap blitz Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb finished less than one second behind Tomac in the event that also pays points toward the inaugural 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship. Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton took the final podium spot after leading much of the race as the 17-round season puts six races in the books for 2023. The rescheduled race brought the Western Regional 250SX Class riders back into action and Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence used patience to get the win in a dramatic race.

Eli Tomac - Oakland Supercross

Tomac wasn’t flawless but he was fast. He took his 48th career Supercross win and stretched his points lead to seven after six races. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Chase Sexton grabbed the Holeshot in the 450SX Class Main Event with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Christian Craig, Tomac, Webb, and Red Bull KTM’s Aaron Plessinger following. Webb wasted no time getting into second with Tomac right behind and Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen jumping into fourth. As the top three began to distance themselves from the pack, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson took over fourth place. Five minutes into the 20-minute plus one lap race Sexton held a 2.2 second lead over Tomac, who’d gapped Webb by four seconds.

The front three ran that formation for several laps. Behind them Plessinger put his KTM into fourth place and Roczen, Anderson, and Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia scrapped for fifth. Up front, Sexton slowly stretched out his lead past five seconds. A near-crash may have gotten into Sexton’s head and led to an actual crash; with just over six and a half minutes left on the race clock he slipped sideways off a small single and crashed into a corner marker. Tomac took over the lead while Sexton remounted in second place.

But Sexton’s troubles weren’t over. Webb was on the move, and with 48 seconds left on the race clock Webb used a unique line down the track’s final rhythm section to get past Sexton. When the riders took the white flag, Webb was 4.3 seconds behind Tomac.

Then it was Tomac’s turn to make an unforced error. On the final lap he landed awkwardly into the face of a small jump, got off-balance, and veered off the track. Tomac recovered but looked off-time for the final lap while Webb laid down a fierce charge. Webb had his fast line in the rhythm section that Tomac wasn’t doing, and as the two riders approached the final turn Webb’s faster line came up just short giving him the pass. Tomac took the win less than a second ahead of Webb. Tomac’s win was his 48th Supercross victory, putting him into a tie for third-most all-time wins with Ricky Carmichael, who called the race from the announcer’s booth.

Jett Lawrence - Oakland Supercross

Jett Lawrence was smooth, patient, and fast on the challenging Oakland track. His dominant win extended his points lead to 20 just four races into the Western Regional 250SX Class season.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

In the Western Regional 250SX Class Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire grabbed the Holeshot ahead of Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Cameron McAdoo, Jett Lawrence, BarX Suzuki’s Matt Moss, and Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha’s Enzo Lopes. The top three put down fast times and without battling each other pulled a gap on the rest of the field. Two minutes into the 15-minute plus one lap race only two seconds separated the top three. When McAdoo dropped his front end in the whoops Lawrence capitalized on the mistake. The Honda rider took over second place and set his sights on Hampshire 2.6 further up the track.

Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Pierce Brown had pushed forward from a bad start and soon was on McAdoo’s rear wheel. Five minutes into the race Hampshire had extended his lead to 3.2 seconds while Lawrence, McAdoo, and Brown were clumped together in a battle for second. Then Hampshire lost the front end in a tight corner and gave up his advantage. He remounted as the pack of three was on him and pushed into the third place spot immediately.

From there Lawrence gradually pulled clear of the three racers behind him. A battle heated up directly behind that pack for fifth place between Red Bull KTM’s Max Vohland, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Levi Kitchen, and Lopes. Hampshire reached second as Brown attacked McAdoo for third. Brown took the spot, but a mistake allowed McAdoo to block pass his way back by, taking Brown down in the process. Brown remounted right into a battle with Levi Kitchen for fourth.

Jett Lawrence had pulled more than a 15 second lead at the end of the race. He grabbed his third win in only four rounds of the division’s season. Hampshire landed the second place spot, and McAdoo took third. It’s worth noting both Hampshire and McAdoo are recovering from injuries and look to have more for Lawrence when the Western Regional 250SX Class resumes on March 25th.

The race series moves east next Saturday night, February 25th, to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas for the second Triple Crown format race of the year. The event pits the racers against one another in three separate Main Events to determine the night’s overall finishing order. The Texas race reactivates the Eastern Regional 250SX Class racers as well as hosts another SX Futures race of young talents competing to earn their pro racing license.

Like every 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross the event also pays points toward the brand-new SuperMotocross World Championship. The new series encompasses the Supercross and Pro Motocross seasons as well as two Playoff races leading to a Final. The 450 Class champion earns a $1,000,000 payout and the 250 Class champion pockets $500,000.

All 31 rounds of the premier off-road motorcycle series stream live on Peacock with select rounds broadcast domestically on NBC, USA Network, and CNBC. Tickets are on sale now for the eleven remaining 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross events, 11 Pro Motocross races, and two SuperMotocross Playoffs and Final. For the full race schedule as well as highlight videos, race results, and more, please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.

450SX Podium - Oakland Supercross

450SX Class podium (riders left to right) Cooper Webb, Eli Tomac, and Chase Sexton.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

450SX Class Results

  1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha
  2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM
  3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda
  4. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM
  5. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki
  6. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS
  7. Christian Craig, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna
  8. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki
  9. Colt Nichols, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
  10. Justin Cooper, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha

450SX Class Championship Standings

  1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha (139)
  2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM (132)
  3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (132)
  4. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (111)
  5. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki (104)
  6. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (104)
  7. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS (97)
  8. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki (82)
  9. Colt Nichols, Murrieta, Calif., Honda (75)
  10. Christian Craig, Clermont, Fla., Husqvarna (75)

250SX Podium - Oakland Supercross

250SX Class podium (riders left to right) RJ Hampshire, Jett Lawrence, and Cameron McAdoo.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Western Regional 250SX Class Results

  1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda
  2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna
  3. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki
  4. Levi Kitchen, Havana, Fla., Yamaha
  5. Pierce Brown, Sandy, Utah, GASGAS
  6. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha
  7. Max Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM
  8. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda
  9. Cole Thompson, Brigden, ON, Yamaha
  10. Mitchell Harrison, Leesburg, Fla., GASGAS

Western Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

  1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda (101)
  2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna (81)
  3. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki (80)
  4. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda (69)
  5. Levi Kitchen, Havana, Fla., Yamaha (63)
  6. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha (63)
  7. Stilez Robertson, Bakersfield, Calif., Yamaha (52)
  8. Max Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM (52)
  9. Pierce Brown, Sandy, Utah, GASGAS (51)
  10. Dylan Walsh, Wildomar, Calif., Kawasaki (49)

Assets:
2023 Oakland Photo Gallery
450SX Class Highlights – Oakland
Western Regional 250SX Class Highlights – Oakland
Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Media Contacts:
Sean Brennen
Feld Motor Sports – Senior PR Manager – Supercross
sbrennen@feldinc.com

About Feld Motor Sports:

Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting specialized arena and stadium-based motorsports entertainment. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a subsidiary of Feld Entertainment, Inc. Visit monsterjam.com, SupercrossLIVE.com, and feldentertainment.com for more information.

About Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship:

Monster Energy AMA Supercross is the most competitive and highest-profile off-road motorcycle racing championship on the planet. Founded in America and sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) since 1974. Over 17 weeks, Supercross attracts some of the largest and most impressive crowds inside the most recognizable and prestigious stadiums in North America to race in front of nearly one million live fans and broadcast to millions more worldwide. For more information, visit SupercrossLIVE.com.

About the SuperMotocross World Championship:

The SuperMotocross World Championship™ is the premier off-road motorcycle racing series that combines the technical precision of stadium racing with the all-out speed and endurance of outdoor racing. Created in 2022, the SuperMotocross World Championship combines the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the AMA Pro Motocross Championship into a 31-event series that culminates in a season-ending two round playoff and SuperMotocross World Championship Final. Visit SuperMotocross.com for more information.

About the American Motorcyclist Association:

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Source: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

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Tomac Makes It Two-for-Two in Title Chase with San Diego Supercross Win

Lawrence Also Repeats with 250SX Class Win

SAN DIEGO, CA – January 22, 2023 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) –  Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac grabbed his second victory of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season in front of a sold-out crowd inside Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California. Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb also replicated his Round 1 finish and earned second place at Round 3, although the race was only the second time the riders have faced off in 2023. Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia held off pressure right until the checkers to take the final podium spot at the first Supercross event held inside the new stadium.

In Western Regional 250SX Class racing, Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence also repeated his opening round win with a nearly flawless ride. Tomac and Lawrence extended their points lead in the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross season as well as toward the inaugural 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship of 2023.

Eli Tomac earned his 46th 450SX Class victory

Eli Tomac earned his 46th 450SX Class victory at the first Supercross race held in the all-new Snapdragon Stadium. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Just as at the previous round, Team Honda HRC’s Colt Nichols got through the first corner ahead of 21 other racers to nab the 450SX Class Main Event Holeshot. Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo was quickly into the lead for the opening laps of the 20-minute plus one lap race. The racers who share the past four championships, Webb and Tomac, battled each other as they closed on the leader. Webb took over the front spot two and a half minutes into the race; Tomac also got around Cianciarulo and four minutes after the gate had dropped Tomac made the pass on Webb for the lead. Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson pushed forward into third place as a battle brewed between Barcia and Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen for fourth.

Just past the race’s halfway point Anderson crashed in a turn, turning the battle between Barcia and Roczen into a podium position fight. Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton was right behind and the three riders circled the track within a breath of each other. In the final laps Webb pulled close to Tomac’s rear fender, knocking the Yamaha rider’s lead down to just 1.4 seconds. Tomac held strong for the win, his second of the two races run so far this season.

Honda HRC's Jett Lawrence won the first two 250SX Class races of 2023

Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence won the first two 250SX Class races of 2023 convincingly. There is already buzz about a possible perfect season which would put the Honda rider in a tie as the winningest all-time 125/250 SX rider. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

When the gate dropped for the Western Regional 250SX Class Main Event, Jett Lawrence darted to the lead ahead of Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha’s Enzo Lopes, Smartop MotoConcepts Racing Honda’s Mitchell Oldenburg, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Cameron McAdoo and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire. Contact in the tight opening lap pushed Hampshire back but he quickly worked his way back to sixth and started picking off the riders ahead of him. Teammates Lopes and Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha’s Phil Nicoletti scrapped over second while McAdoo and Hampshire slowly pushed forward. Five minutes into the 15-minute plus one lap race McAdoo put his Kawasaki into second and matched lap times with Lawrence, just two seconds ahead. Two minutes later Hampshire reached third. From there Lawrence pulled out some breathing room. As the race clock neared :30 remaining Hampshire cut under McAdoo to match his Round 1 performance and earn second place points.

The series travels back up the California coast to Angel Stadium of Anaheim for a race that pays points to both the Monster Energy Supercross season and the SuperMotocross World Championship series. Monster Energy AMA Supercross Round 2 was postponed due to area flooding and has found its new place on the schedule; the racers will battle at RingCentral Coliseum in Oakland, California on February 18th. The Oakland Supercross will go into the record books as Round 2 of the 2023 season but will sit just after Round 6 on the calendar.

2023 is already proving to be a thrilling season on the track as well as off with the formation of the SuperMotocross World Championship. The new World Championship League brings champions and contenders of both the technical Monster Energy AMA Supercross season, and the wide-open AMA Pro Motocross season together for two exciting Playoff races and one Final race in October to crown a single champion in each class. The 450 Class winner will pocket a one million dollar win bonus and the 250 Class champ will take home $500,000.

From January through October all 31 SuperMotocross World Championship rounds are available live on PeacockTV. Select rounds will be broadcast domestically on NBC, USA Network, and CNBC. SuperMotocross.tv provides international coverage of the events.

Nothing matches the thrill of seeing the action live. Tickets are on sale now for all remaining Monster Energy AMA Supercross events. For tickets, race results, feature stories, and airtimes on Peacock, NBC, USA Network, and CNBC please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.

San Diego 450SX Class podium

Class podium (riders left to right) Justin Barcia, Eli Tomac, and Cooper Webb.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

450SX Class Results

  1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha
  2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM
  3. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS
  4. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki
  5. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda
  6. Dylan Ferrandis, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha
  7. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki
  8. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki
  9. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM
  10. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki

450SX Class Championship Standings

  1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha (52)
  2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM (46)
  3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (39)
  4. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki (37)
  5. Dylan Ferrandis, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (36)
  6. Justin Barcia, Greenville, Fla., GASGAS (33)
  7. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (32)
  8. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (29)
  9. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (29)
  10. Colt Nichols, Murrieta, Calif., Honda (28)

San Diego 250SX Class podium

250SX Class podium (riders left to right) RJ Hampshire, Jett Lawrence, and Cameron McAdoo.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Western Regional 250SX Class Results

  1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda
  2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna
  3. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki
  4. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha
  5. Pierce Brown, Sandy, Utah, GASGAS
  6. Stilez Robertson, Bakersfield, Calif., Yamaha
  7. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda
  8. Phillip Nicoletti, Bethel, N.Y., Yamaha
  9. Derek Kelley, Riverside, Calif., KTM
  10. Cole Thompson, Brigden, Ont., Yamaha

Western Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

  1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda (52)
  2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna (46)
  3. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki (42)
  4. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha (36)
  5. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda (35)
  6. Stilez Robertson, Bakersfield, Calif., Yamaha (31)
  7. Phillip Nicoletti, Bethel, N.Y., Yamaha (30)
  8. Derek Kelley, Riverside, Calif., KTM (27)
  9. Dylan Walsh, Wildomar, Calif., Kawasaki (24)
  10. Cole Thompson, Brigden, Ont., Yamaha (23)

Assets:

2023 San Diego Photo Gallery

450SX Class Highlights

Western Regional 250SX Class Highlights

Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc

Media Contacts:

Sean Brennen
Feld Motor Sports – Senior PR Manager – Supercross
sbrennen@feldinc.com

About Feld Motor Sports:

Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting specialized arena and stadium-based motorsports entertainment. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a subsidiary of Feld Entertainment, Inc. Visit monsterjam.com, SupercrossLIVE.com, and feldentertainment.com for more information.

About Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship:

Monster Energy AMA Supercross is the most competitive and highest-profile off-road motorcycle racing championship on the planet. Founded in America and sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) since 1974. Over 17 weeks, Supercross attracts some of the largest and most impressive crowds inside the most recognizable and prestigious stadiums in North America to race in front of nearly one million live fans and broadcast to millions more worldwide. For more information, visit SupercrossLIVE.com.

About the SuperMotocross World Championship:

The SuperMotocross World Championship™ is the premier off-road motorcycle racing series that combines the technical precision of stadium racing with the all-out speed and endurance of outdoor racing. Created in 2022, the SuperMotocross World Championship combines the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the AMA Pro Motocross Championship into a 31-event series that culminates in a season-ending two round playoff and SuperMotocross World Championship Final. Visit SuperMotocross.com for more information.

About the American Motorcyclist Association:

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Source: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

230105 SX sponsor logos

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Wiseco Support Expanded to Complete Honda HRC Roster for 2023

Factory Honda 450SX and 250SX Riders are Wiseco-Backed for ‘23 SX and MX

MENTOR, OH – January 10, 2023 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) – After five incredible seasons building its partnership with Team Honda HRC, Wiseco Performance Productsis proud to expand its relationship to include collaboration with Honda’s 250SX program in addition to its existing 450SX relationship. This technical partnership focuses on piston development for the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross and Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship seasons, which have joined forces to create the 2023 SuperMotocross World Championship.

230110 23 Team Honda HRC_Wiseco_11_rs

With over eight decades of performance and racing experience, Wiseco’s first-hand knowledge designing, developing, and manufacturing USA-made performance is a powerful complement to Team Honda HRC’s elite legacy in Supercross and Motocross racing. Wiseco will continue to work closely with the team on piston and engine package research and development services, now expanded to both the Honda CRF450RWE and CRF250R platforms for 2023.

“Team Honda HRC are very excited and proud to have Wiseco become a ‘complete’ team sponsor to include the 250 program as well the 450. Together we have had many successful years already on the 450, and we are ready to take that same success to the 250 class, where a high-performance, high-quality piston is extremely important.”

Coming off a pair of 2022 championships in AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross, now three-time title earner Jett Lawrence is campaigning the 250SX West Class while his brother, Hunter Lawrence will be campaigning the 250SX East Class, where each will be hunting for number one plates aboard their CRF250R machines. Additionally, proven amateur rider, Chance Hymas, will be campaigning select AMA Supercross 250SX West region rounds before competing in his first AMA Pro Motocross season.

Team Honda HRC’s 450SX class efforts are led by Chase Sexton, who has entered his third AMA Supercross season aboard the CRF450RWE and is coming off a season filled with championship-contending performances, as well as riding for the winning Team USA effort in the 2022 Motocross of Nations. Also backed by Wiseco, alongside Sexton, will be 2021 250SX East Region Champion Colt Nichols, making his debut in the premier class aboard his number 45 Honda.

230110 23 Team Honda HRC_Wiseco_5_rs

“Wiseco is thrilled to be evolving our relationship with Team Honda HRC entering the 2023 season,” explained Wiseco’s Director of Marketing, Scott Highland. “It’s an honor to combine resources for piston development with one of the most recognizable teams in the global powersports industry. Last season showed great success in mutual development with the CRF450R platform, and we are looking forward to building upon that with the CRF250R platform as well.”

The gate drops at the second round of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross series in Oakland on January 14. Find the complete 2023 Supercross schedule here, and check out Team Honda HRC’s official announcement here.

About Wiseco Performance Products

Born over 80 years ago from the passion for racing, Wiseco is a world leader in manufacturing high-performance, forged pistons for the motorcycle, automotive, ATV, snowmobile, personal watercraft, and outboard marine markets. The Wiseco crew shares the same level of dedication to motorsports as their customers and are focused on continually refining the quality and practices it takes to exceed expectations. Engineered, forged, and machined on cutting-edge equipment in the U.S. at Wiseco’s Mentor, Ohio manufacturing facility, Wiseco pistons are the undisputed leader in quality and performance. Wiseco Performance Products, built for racers, by racers.

About American Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the United States. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.

Source: Wiseco Performance Products

Wiseco

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Eli Tomac Grabs Dramatic Win at Monster Energy Supercross Opener

Jett Lawrence Captures 250SX Win at Anaheim 1 Supercross

ANAHEIM, CA – January 8, 2022 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac took a wild and hard-fought victory at the opening round of the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season, an event that also paid points as the opening round of the inaugural SuperMotocross World Championship series. After a tough battle through the pack, Red Bull KTM’s Cooper Webb locked down second place inside a packed Angel Stadium of Anaheim in Southern California. After leading several laps late in the race, Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton took the third spot on the podium in this historical 50th year of Supercross racing. In the Western Regional 250SX Class, Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence nabbed the opening win with a wire-to-wire win.

Eli Tomac captured his first Anaheim 1

Eli Tomac captured his first Anaheim 1 victory in one of the most dramatic races in the sport’s history. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Team Honda HRC’s Colt Nichols grabbed the holeshot of the 450SX Class Main Event but Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia took over the top spot just two corners into the race. Tomac and Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen were right behind, battling hard and flying side-by-side down three consecutive rhythm sections. Tomac broke free of Roczen, then took the lead over the bridge jump three and a half minutes into the 20-minute plus one lap race.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Malcolm Stewart closed up to Roczen’s rear tire as Barcia got sideways in a rhythm lane and crashed off the track. Barcia’s crash moved Roczen to second, Stewart to third, and Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton up to fourth. Six and a half minutes in, Stewart drew alongside Roczen and battled his way past. The two riders nearly came together, forcing a mistake from Roczen that allowed Sexton to take over third place. Further back, Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson and Cooper Webb scrapped for fifth position.

Then Tomac crashed on the bridge jump he’d used to take the lead. Malcolm Stewart found himself out front. The crowd erupted as the Husqvarna rider saw his best shot at his first 450SX Class victory. At the halfway point Stewart led, Sexton pursued in second place, and Roczen sat third. Sexton challenged for the lead as Tomac started his charge back to the front.

With just under seven minutes left on the race clock Sexton pushed past Stewart, forcing Stewart momentarily off the track. Shortly after, Tomac reached third place and set his sights on Stewart in second. As the clock ticked down past 3:30, Tomac pushed past Stewart while Webb got around Roczen and into fourth. One small bobble from Sexton put Tomac suddenly in a perfect position to take back the lead. Only 1.7 seconds separated the top three racers when Stewart went over the bars in a rhythm section and saw his shot at a first win disappear.

With two minutes to go, Tomac took back the front spot. As the clock ticked past one minute, Webb reached third position. Webb nabbed one more spot, taking second from Sexton just as they crossed the white flag. Tomac took the checkers a lap later, earning his first Anaheim 1 victory and starting his title defense with a win and a display of speed that separates him as the rider to beat this season.

Jett Lawrence - Western Regional 250SX Class opener

Jett Lawrence was picture perfect with a convincing win in the Western Regional 250SX Class opener. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

The Western Regional 250SX Class delivered a dramatic crash nearly from the instant the gate dropped. Just halfway down the start straight of the 250SX Class Main Event, Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Austin Forkner crashed hard. Emerging from the first turn with the lead, Jett Lawrence fought off early attacks from Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Cameron McAdoo. Before the first lap was in the books Lawrence had pulled clear of McAdoo and the pack and was never challenged again for the spot.

Behind Lawrence, McAdoo pursued with Red Bull KTM’s Max Vohland, Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha’s Phil Nicoletti, and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire close behind. Hampshire put down fast laps on the rutty track and moved into third place two and a half minutes into the 15-minute plus one lap race. With under two minutes left on the race clock Hampshire made the pass into second position and held the spot to the checkers.

The racers battle again on Saturday night, January 14th at RingCentral Coliseum in Oakland, California for round 2 of the Monster Energy Supercross season. The event also serves as round 2 of the 2023 Super Motocross World Championship series. The new 2023 SuperMotocross League tests the athletes across both disciplines and culminates in a three race series (two Playoffs and one Final, with points payout increases at each) in September and October to crown a single champion in each class. All 31 SuperMotocross World Championship rounds will be streamed live on Peacock with select rounds also broadcast domestically across NBC, USA Network, and CNBC. International coverage is available through the SuperMotocross Video Pass at SuperMotocross.tv.

The Monster Energy Supercross season makes up the first seventeen rounds of 2023 racing, with three rounds featuring a Triple Crown format and two rounds hosting a 250SX Class East/West Showdown. The 2023 purse money increases $1.1 million over the 17-rounds, with a $1,000,000 win bonus to the SuperMotocross 450 Class champion and $500,000 win bonus to the SuperMotocross 250 Class champion.

Tickets are on sale now for all seventeen Monster Energy Supercross events. For tickets, race results, feature stories, and airtimes on Peacock, NBC, USA Network, and CNBC please go to SupercrossLIVE.com.

450SX podium

450SX Class podium (riders left to right) Chase Sexton, Eli Tomac, and Cooper Webb. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

450SX Class Results – Anaheim 1

  1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha
  2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM
  3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda
  4. Dylan Ferrandis, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha
  5. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki
  6. Colt Nichols, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
  7. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki
  8. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM
  9. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki
  10. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki

450SX Class Championship Standings

  1. Eli Tomac, Cortez, Colo., Yamaha (26)
  2. Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., KTM (23)
  3. Chase Sexton, Clermont, Fla., Honda (21)
  4. Dylan Ferrandis, Tallahassee, Fla., Yamaha (19)
  5. Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki (18)
  6. Colt Nichols, Murrieta, Calif., Honda (17)
  7. Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (16)
  8. Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (15)
  9. Adam Cianciarulo, New Smyrna Beach, Fla., Kawasaki (14)
  10. Joey Savatgy, Clermont, Fla., Kawasaki (13)

Anaheim 1 - 250SX Class podium

250SX Class podium (riders left to right) RJ Hampshire, Jett Lawrence, and Cameron McAdoo. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Western Regional 250SX Class Results – Anaheim 1

  1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda
  2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna
  3. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki
  4. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda
  5. Max Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM
  6. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha
  7. Levi Kitchen, Havana, Fla., Yamaha
  8. Phillip Nicoletti, Bethel, N.Y., Yamaha
  9. Stilez Robertson, Bakersfield, Calif., Yamaha
  10. Derek Kelley, Riverside, Calif., KTM

Western Regional 250SX Class Championship Standings

  1. Jett Lawrence, Zephyrhills, Fla., Honda (26)
  2. RJ Hampshire, Minneola, Fla., Husqvarna (23)
  3. Cameron McAdoo, Sioux City, Iowa, Kawasaki (21)
  4. Mitchell Oldenburg, Godley, Tex., Honda (19)
  5. Max Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM (18)
  6. Enzo Lopes, Chesterfield, S.C., Yamaha (17)
  7. Levi Kitchen, Havana, Fla., Yamaha (16)
  8. Phillip Nicoletti, Bethel, N.Y., Yamaha (15)
  9. Stilez Robertson, Bakersfield, Calif., Yamaha (14)
  10. Derek Kelley, Riverside, Calif., KTM (13)

Assets:

2023 Anaheim 1 Photo Gallery

450SX Class Highlights

Western Regional 250SX Class Highlights

Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

Media Contacts:

Sean Brennen
Feld Motor Sports – Senior PR Manager – Supercross
sbrennen@feldinc.com

About Feld Motor Sports:

Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting specialized arena and stadium-based motorsports entertainment. Properties include Monster Jam®, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a subsidiary of Feld Entertainment, Inc. Visit monsterjam.com, SupercrossLIVE.com, and feldentertainment.com for more information.

About Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship:

Monster Energy AMA Supercross is the most competitive and highest-profile off-road motorcycle racing championship on the planet. Founded in America and sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) since 1974. Over 17 weeks, Supercross attracts some of the largest and most impressive crowds inside the most recognizable and prestigious stadiums in North America to race in front of nearly one million live fans and broadcast to millions more worldwide. For more information, visit SupercrossLIVE.com.

About the SuperMotocross World Championship:

The SuperMotocross World Championship™ is the premier off-road motorcycle racing series that combines the technical precision of stadium racing with the all-out speed and endurance of outdoor racing. Created in 2022, the SuperMotocross World Championship combines the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and the AMA Pro Motocross Championship into a 31-event series that culminates in a season-ending two round playoff and SuperMotocross World Championship Final. Visit SuperMotocross.com for more information.

About the American Motorcyclist Association:

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. The AMA also provides money-saving discounts on products and services for its members. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit americanmotorcyclist.com.

Source: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.

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Team Honda HRC Presents Lineup Ahead of 2023 Season

Team Honda HRC Lineup Ahead of the 2023 Season, including riders, management, and technicians to the media during a special event.

MURRIETA, CA – December 10, 2022 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) –

  • Riders expected to fight for titles in both classes
  • Team to campaign 2023 CRF450RWE, CRF250R

With the racing season fast approaching, Team Honda HRC presented its 2023 roster, including riders, management and technicians, to the media during a special event held today at Southern California’s Blackmore Ranch. This will mark the 50th anniversary in motocross for American Honda, which approaches the ’23 AMA Supercross season with a powerful rider lineup comprising Chase Sexton, Colt Nichols, and Hunter and Jett Lawrence, along with Chance Hymas.

The squad’s 450 effort will be led by Chase Sexton, who embarks on his third AMA Supercross season aboard the factory CRF450RWE. A two-time AMA Supercross 250SX East Region Champion, the Illinois native took a big step forward this past season, regularly posting podium results indoors, finishing a close second in the AMA Pro Motocross final standings, and riding for the winning Team USA effort in his Motocross of Nations debut. As previously announced, Sexton is joined for the 2023 indoor series by 2021 AMA Supercross 250SX East Region Champion Colt Nichols, who moves to Honda and the premier class after a successful career aboard quarter-liter machinery.

Video Player

For the third year in a row, Team Honda HRC’s 250 effort is headed up by Australian brothers Hunter and Jett Lawrence, both campaigning the CRF250R. This past season saw Jett not only successfully defend his AMA Pro Motocross 250 title, but also earn the AMA Supercross 250SX East Region crown, while Hunter was second in the West Region and third outdoors. For 2023, the brothers are swapping supercross regions, with Jett riding West and Hunter racing East. Meanwhile, Chance Hymas advances from the amateur ranks to join Hunter in selected East Region appearances.

In addition to his 250 efforts, Jett intends to switch to the CRF450RWE fulltime for AMA Pro Motocross. At that point, Hymas will fill his 250 spot fulltime alongside Hunter Lawrence.

Following a successful debut year as Team Manager, Lars Lindstrom continues at the helm for 2023, once again joined by 450 and 250 Crew Chiefs Shane Drew and Grant Hutcheson, respectively. Brandon Zimmerman is Sexton’s mechanic, while Nichols’ technician is Jordan Troxell. Christien Ducharme and Cameron Camera continue as mechanics for Jett and Hunter Lawrence, and Thomas Harris is spinning wrenches for Hymas.

“The 2023 season will mark 50 years of motocross for American Honda, and we’re excited to get started,” said Brandon Wilson, Manager of Sports & Experiential at American Honda. “We experienced some good success in 2022, including indoor and outdoor championships in the 250 class, but we’re hungry for more. We’ve got a great lineup of riders aboard competitive machinery, and talented crew and management behind them. Honda has compiled an impressive motocross and supercross heritage over the past half-century, but we’re focused on adding to it as we head into the next 50 years.”

The 2023 season features a new format, with the 17-round AMA Supercross series commencing January 7 in Anaheim, California; the 11-round AMA Pro Motocross series kicking off May 27 in Pala, California; and the new three-round SuperMotocross World Championship starting September 9 in a yet-to-be-announced location.

About American Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and side-by-sides in the United States. American Honda’s Power Sports & Products division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to 
powersports.honda.com.

Source: American Honda Motor Co., Inc.


Team Honda HRC

Dunlop Riders Dominated at the 2022 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA – September 5, 2022 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) –  The PristineAuction.com National at Fox Raceway just outside of San Diego California was the twelfth and final round of the 50th anniversary 2022 Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross Championship sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing. After winning all the AMA Pro Supercross and Motocross championships since 2010, it was no surprise that for the thirteenth consecutive year, Dunlop riders won both the 2022 250 and 450 National Motocross Championships. The Dunlop Domination continued throughout the overall championship standings, taking the top nine spots in the premier 450 class, and taking the top sixteen positions in the 250 class. By capturing all the pro AMA titles in 2022, Dunlop riders have now won a remarkable 173 AMA Pro Motocross and Supercross Championships

The 450 title was the one to watch as it all came down to the final round. With last year’s 450 champion out with an injury it opened the door for a new title holder. This 2022 season was considered one of the best MX seasons ever, with multiple points lead changes and the closest points battle it has ever been going into the final round. Team Dunlop Elite alumni Eli Tomac and Chase Sexton only had 1 point differentiating themselves going into Pala II. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac came out on top beating the Team Honda HRC rider in dominating fashion going 1-1 and capturing his fifth Pro Motocross Championship!

In the 250 class, last year’s champion Jett Lawrence continued his winning ways into the 2022 season. With a 41-point lead going into the final round, the Aussie only needed to ride smart to make it two 250 Pro Motocross championships in a row! The Team Honda HRC rider did so in the extreme heat by finishing first in the opening moto and second in his final moto of the season. With eleven moto wins and nine overall wins throughout the season, Jett Lawrence was crowned the 2022 Pro Motocross 250 class champion!

“This has truly been the most exciting Pro Motocross series that I can remember, and Dunlop riders continued their Dominance” said Broc Glover, Sr. Manager of Off-Road Motorcycles for Dunlop. “Not only is this the thirteenth consecutive year Dunlop riders won both Lucas Oil Pro Motocross championships, but our riders also had a perfect podium record in both classes at all twelve rounds! This is a testament to the brand, product and hard-working Dunlop staff that represent and support Dunlop day in and day out. In addition, we had the new Geomax MX14 sand/mud tire show its true protentional and was a great option for these top racers to use. Motocross riders have a choice in tires, and we want to thank all the teams and riders who chose to race on Dunlop.”

About Dunlop Motorcycle Tires:

Dunlop is the largest supplier of original equipment and replacement motorcycle tires in the U.S.A. For more information, visit www.DunlopMotorcycleTires.com. Follow @ridedunlop on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for the latest Dunlop news. Use #RideDunlop and/or #RaceDunlop to share your Dunlop moments.

Source: Dunlop Motorcycle Tires

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Champions Crowned in Southern California to Close Out 50th Anniversary Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship

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Eli Tomac Captures Fourth Career 450 Class Title
Jett Lawrence Wraps Up Back-to-Back 250 Class Crowns at Fox Raceway

PALA, CA – September 4, 2022 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) – After 12 rounds of travel across the country and 24 hotly contested motos over the course of the summer, the 50th Anniversary of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, came to a dramatic conclusion from the proverbial home of the industry in Southern California. Champions were crowned at the PristineAuction.com Fox Raceway II National, presented by Fox Racing, where the historic showdown between Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing’s Eli Tomac and Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton culminated with another memorable battle, from which Tomac prevailed following a 1-1 effort, to hoist the Edison Dye Cup for the first time since 2019 and secure the fourth 450 Class title of his decorated career. In the 250 Class, Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence captured an exclamation point victory to successfully defend his hold of the Gary Jones Cup and secure back-to-back championships to further solidify his role as the sport’s youngest star.

Moto 1

Extreme heat protocols were implemented for the races, which shortened each moto in both classes to 25 minutes plus two laps. As the field stormed out the gate to open 450 Class Moto 1 it was Sexton and Tomac at the front, with Sexton grabbing the MotoSport.com Holeshot. The championship rivals set a torrid pace early and easily sprinted away from the field.

The pair traded fast laps as the gap between them ebbed and flowed through various parts of the track, where both riders appeared to have strengths in different sections. Sexton and Tomac opened an advantage of nearly half a minute on the field as the moto reached its halfway point, while the distance between them hovered around a second.

Lapped riders brought the rivals closer together entering the final five minutes and it opened the door for Tomac to take advantage. The Yamaha rider seized the moment and went on the attack to make the pass. Tomac then dropped the hammer and opened a gap of two seconds with three minutes to go.

As they took the two-lap board just 1.5 seconds separated Tomac and Sexton, but a bobble from Sexton allowed Tomac to establish the largest lead of the moto at its most critical juncture. Sexton battled back and closed in, but it was too little too late as Tomac secured his 13th moto win of the season by 1.5 seconds. Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing’s Christian Craig finished third, one minute and 15 seconds behind the leaders, with Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson fourth and Troy Lee Designs/Red Bull/GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia in fifth.

Moto 2

The final moto of the 2022 season had everything on the line and as the field exited the first turn it was Craig who came away with the MotoSport.com Holeshot, followed by Anderson and Sexton. Tomac was forced to work his way forward from a start deep in the top 10. In his pursuit of Anderson for second during the opening laps, Sexton suffered a bobble that shot him off track and caused him to tip over. He lost multiple positions and reentered the race right behind Tomac, in seventh. Sexton then tipped over again and lost another position.

Out front, the battle for the lead heated up between Anderson and Craig. The Kawasaki rider got alongside the Yamaha and made a savvy move to take the lead a little more than five minutes into the moto. Behind this exchange Tomac was able to break into the top three, while Sexton was on a recovery charge and clawed his way up to fourth. Tomac closed quickly on Craig, his teammate, and moved into second with ease. At that point, Tomac faced a 2.8 second deficit to Anderson. Needing to make a push, Sexton closed in on Craig for third but suffered another tip over. He remounted without losing a position.

As the moto surpassed the halfway point the battle for the lead was on between Anderson and Tomac. Despite having a faster pace, Tomac was unable to get enough of an edge to make a move. A slight miscue by Anderson saw him briefly put the bike in neutral, which allowed Tomac to slip past and seize control of the moto with six minutes to go. Sexton’s fight continued as well with a pass on Craig for third. From there, the Honda rider tried to track down the lead duo.

With the lead in hand, Tomac opened up a lead of more than six seconds as Anderson started to lose ground to Sexton for second. The Honda rider was decisive and made the pass, but faced too big of a deficit to contend for the lead. Tomac brought home an emphatic final moto win by 9.2 seconds over Sexton, with Anderson in third.

Overall

Tomac’s fourth 1-1 performance of the season was his biggest as he finished the year with a class-leading fifth victory, his first since the seventh round. His third win at Fox Raceway was the 32nd victory of his career and marked his 70th career podium finish, which moved him into second all-time. Sexton’s runner-up finish came on the heels of a hard-earned 2-2 effort, while Anderson’s strong final moto landed him third overall (4-3).

Tomac’s 11-race podium streak to close out the season and his 14 moto wins were the tipping point in the championship, where he finished seven points ahead of Sexton in the final standings in what has been the closest battle in the history of Pro Motocross. Anderson enjoyed a career-best season to finish third on the championship podium. Tomac’s title, combined with his Monster Energy Supercross Championship from earlier this year, also made him the first rider to sweep the season championships since Ryan Dungey did it during the 2015 season. The fourth premier class title of Tomac’s career is also the second most in history, trailing only Ricky Carmichael (7).

Eli Tomac, Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing
“I just think of this whole season in its entirety. It’s been the most enjoyable season of my career, by far, starting with supercross and now motocross. This summer was incredible battling with Chase [Sexton]. He’s the future of this division. We pushed ourselves to the limits [all summer] and even raised the bar.”

Chase Sexton, Team Honda HRC
“I had a never-quit attitude all year. Eli [Tomac] is so tough and he got the upper hand on me. That second moto was so frustrating. I was trying so hard and made three mistakes. I need to stop making those. We made huge gains this year and I’m really looking forward to the future. We’re just getting started.”

Jason Anderson, Monster Energy Kawasaki
“I spent a lot of energy in that first moto to finish fourth. In the second moto the pace was too tough, and I used too much energy earlier so I couldn’t keep it up. It’s been an amazing season for me, but I still want more.”

220904 Eli Tomac Captures Fourth Career 450 Class Title (2)
450 Class - FOX Raceway podium
450 Class - FOX Raceway (1) 450 Class - FOX Raceway (2)
450 Class - FOX Raceway (3) 450 Class - FOX Raceway (4)
450 Class - FOX Raceway (6)

Photos: Align Media

220904 450 Class - FOX Raceway results

250 class banner

Moto 1

The first 250 Class moto of the afternoon got underway with Jett Lawrence leading the field through the first turn for the MotoSport.com Holeshot, followed closely by Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Jo Shimoda. The close friends engaged in a spirited battle on the opening lap as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Marvin Musquin slotted into third in his first start in the division since the 2015 season.

Lawrence continued to control the moto from the lead through the opening five minutes, but Shimoda was able to keep him honest with consistent lap times. Musquin settled into third but eventually faced a challenge from Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence. A small miscue forced Musquin off the track, which handed the position to Lawrence. Back up front, Jett Lawrence stabilized a lead hovering around two seconds over Shimoda as the moto reached its halfway point.

As the moto entered its final 10 minutes Shimoda picked up the pace and closed the deficit by a second with the fastest laps on the track. The Japanese rider began looking for a way around with alternate lines and soon found himself all over the rear fender of the Honda. As they played cat and mouse with one another it allowed Hunter Lawrence to close in from third and make it a three-rider battle with three minutes to go. Less than a second separated the top three as time ran out on the moto and set the stage for a thrilling battle to the finish.

With two laps to go, Hunter Lawrence pulled the trigger with a pass on Shimoda as they descended one of the track’s downhills. It resulted in hard contact between the two riders and sent Shimoda to the ground as Lawrence continued on in second. Shimoda remounted in third but was forced to fend off Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing’s Justin Cooper from fourth.

The Lawrence brothers went head-to-head on the final lap as Jett narrowly held off Hunter by a mere four tenths of a second for his 11th moto win of the season, which also clinched the championship. Cooper made the pass on Shimoda for third, while Musquin rounded out the top five.

Moto 2

The final 250 Class moto of the season started with Cooper at the head of the pack with the MotoSport.com Holeshot, with Shimoda and his Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki teammate Cameron McAdoo in pursuit, with Jett Lawrence in fourth. Shimoda bided his time and waited for an opening. Once it appeared he wasted no time in making the move and grabbed control of the moto a little more than four minutes into the race.

Once he had the lead in hand, Shimoda began to build a gap on Cooper that soon grew to more than five seconds. Behind him, Cooper was forced to fend off Lawrence, who made the pass on McAdoo and looked to continue his push forward. The champ chipped away at the deficit and closed in on the Yamaha at the halfway point of the moto. He made quick work of Cooper and took control of second. With a little more than 11 minutes to go the gap between Shimoda and Lawrence was more than nine seconds.

Just as it appeared as though Lawrence had control of the runner-up spot, Cooper mounted a counter attack to reignite the battle for the position. With Shimoda well in control of the moto, this battle became the focal point of the closing minutes.

Back up front, Shimoda was in a class of his own and rebounded from the frustrating end to the first moto to earn his fifth moto win of the season by 24.3 seconds over Lawrence, who kept Cooper at bay through to the finish.

Overall

Lawrence’s 1-2 effort carried him to his ninth win of the summer, tied for third most in a single season, and the 14th victory of his career, which moves the young Australian into a tie for eighth on the all-time wins list. It also signified the sixth different moto score combination that has carried him to victory this season and maintained Lawrence’s undefeated record at Fox Raceway, where he now has five wins. Shimoda followed with his ninth overall podium result of the season in second (4-1) and ended the year with four straight finishes on the box. Cooper’s solid afternoon landed him third overall (3-3) for the landmark 30th podium result of his career, good enough to move into a tie for ninth on the all-time podiums list.

Lawrence’s final championship margin was 45 points over Shimoda, while Hunter Lawrence completed the championship podium in third following a fourth-place finish (2-5) in the finale. Jett Lawrence is 12th two-time champion in the history of the division and the first to earn back-to-back titles since Jeremy Martin in 2014-2015.

Jett Lawrence, Team Honda HRC
“It was a lot better today than last year [trying to wrap up the title]. I just wanted to use the least amount of energy possible today. I got into second as soon as I could [in Moto 2] and tried to catch Jo [Shimoda], but it didn’t happen, so I just decided to settle into second.”

Jo Shimoda, Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki
“I was pretty pissed off from the first moto, so I just wanted to get a good start in the second moto and put in a charge. I got a pretty good gap and kept it to the finish, so that’s pretty awesome. I’m just really happy with my season.”

Justin Cooper, Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing
“It was a fun day, but definitely hot. Glad to come out of here in one piece. I had a fun race with Jett [in Moto 2] but Jo was just on another level and we had nothing for him. I’m glad to finish the season on the podium.”

220904 Jett Lawrence Wraps Up Back-to-Back 250 Class Crowns at Fox Raceway (1)
250 Class - FOX Raceway podium
250 Class - FOX Raceway (1) 250 Class - FOX Raceway (2)
250 Class - FOX Raceway (3) 250 Class - FOX Raceway (4)
220904 Jett Lawrence Wraps Up Back-to-Back 250 Class Crowns at Fox Raceway (2)

Photos: Align Media

220904 250 Class - FOX Raceway results

For information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, please visit ProMotocross.com and be sure to follow all of the Pro Motocross social media channels for exclusive content and additional information on the latest news:

Now available for download for both Apple and Android devices is the official Pro Motocross App. Fans of American motocross can have access to the world’s most prestigious off-road motorcycle racing series right at their fingertips on their mobile devices. Developed by AMA Pro Racing, the Pro Motocross App provides users with the most important information surrounding the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, from series news to schedule and ticket information, as well as broadcast schedule details and live timing & scoring. Download it now via the App Store or Google Play.

Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship

The Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, features the world’s fastest outdoor motocross racers, competing aboard homologated bikes from one of seven competing manufacturers on a collection of the roughest, toughest tracks on the planet. Racing takes place each Saturday afternoon, with competition divided into two classes: one for 250cc machines, and one for 450cc machines. MX Sports Pro Racing, the industry leader in off-road powersports event production, manages the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. The title sponsor is Lucas Oil, a leading producer of premium oils, greases, and problem-solving additives, all made in America. Broadcast coverage will be showcased live all season long on MAVTV Motorsports Network, with three rounds broadcast live on NBC Network.

More information can be found at www.ProMotocross.com.

Lucas Oil Products, Inc.

Lucas Oil Products was founded by Forrest and Charlotte Lucas with the simple philosophy of producing only the best line of lubricants and additives available anywhere. Since its inception, Lucas has steadfastly adhered to this corporate objective. Through innovative product research and development, along with aggressive marketing programs, Lucas has established itself as the top selling additive line in the United States. Additionally, Lucas Oil offers a premium line of motor oils, greases, fuel treatments, industrial lubricants, and problem-solving additives to help firmly establish Lucas Oil as a prominent figure in the marketplace. It has provided title sponsorship of the world’s prestigious off-road motorcycle racing series since the 2009 season.

For more information, visit www.LucasOil.com.

MAVTV Motorsports Network 

MAVTV Motorsports Network is the only television network in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to motorsports. MAVTV offers an unparalleled line-up of exclusive and unique events, including unprecedented live coverage of the 50th Anniversary of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. MAVTV goes beyond the national mainstream motorsports events to include grassroots racing from across the globe: drag racing, sprint boats, rally cars, short course off-road truck racing, sprint cars, pro pulling, drifting, ice racing, cross-country motorcycle and ATV racing, ATV motocross, and everything in between. MAVTV knows you don’t have to be a race fan to be an automotive enthusiast, which is why we have developed a package of automotive reality and custom build shows that are truly second-to-none. MAVTV Motorsports Network is available on most cable, satellite, and digital television providers.

If it has a motor, it’s probably on MAVTV – The Motorsports Network!

Source: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc. 

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Team Honda HRC to Field Three Riders in Motocross of Nations

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The American Motorcyclist Association confirmed that Chase Sexton will be on the Team Honda HRC USA lineup for the Motocross of Nations.

MECHANICSVILLE, MD – August 22, 2022 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) –

In a ceremony held today during the Budds Creek AMA Pro Motocross round, the American Motorcyclist Association confirmed that Chase Sexton will be on the Team USA lineup for the Motocross of Nations in Michigan next month. In addition, Sexton’s Team Honda HRC teammates, Hunter and Jett Lawrence, will compete for Team Australia.

This will be Sexton’s debut appearance in the event as a rider for Team USA. Currently campaigning his third season in AMA Pro Motocross’s premier 450 class, the Illinois native holds a narrow lead in the championship battle, having earned three overall wins so far this year (three rounds remain in the series). Sexton will race a factory CRF450R in the unique and history-rich international event, in which countries field three-man teams, often competing on different brands. Team USA’s other riders for 2022 are Eli Tomac (Sexton’s AMA Pro Motocross title rival) and Justin Cooper.

 

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Jett Lawrence
  

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Chase Sexton
  

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Hunter Lawrence

“I’m super-stoked to be picked for the Motocross of Nations,” Sexton said. “It’s been a dream of mine ever since I was little, watching Ricky Carmichael, Travis Pastrana, James Stewart and the other Team USA riders. It’s such a cool race—something like no other. I went to the Motocross of Nations at RedBud in 2018 and got to watch, and now I’m excited to race it. It’s going to be special for me, having grown up like two hours away from RedBud, because it’s my home race. I’m stoked about it, and the goal is to hopefully go there and win.”

Highly anticipated by race fans around the world, the Motocross of Nations will take place at RedBud MX September 23-25. The U.S. has hosted the Motocross of Nations on four occasions since its 1947 inception, the most recent being in 2018 (also at RedBud). Although Team USA has dominated the event during different periods in the 1980s and 2000s, the U.S. has not tasted victory since 2011. However, many consider this to be the strongest American lineup in years.

That said, Team USA will face stiff competition from a number of countries, including Team Australia, which will field an all-Honda lineup that includes Team Honda HRC riders Jett and Hunter Lawrence, the brothers who are currently running first and second, respectively, in the AMA Pro Motocross 250 title battle. Jett, who won that crown last year, will make his 450 debut at the Motocross of Nations, while Hunter will campaign a CRF250R. They’ll be joined on Team Australia by CRF450R-mounted Mitch Evans, who normally rides for Team HRC in the MXGP World Championship.

Because the race is on American soil, Team Honda HRC will have three semi-trucks on hand at RedBud in order to provide pit support for not only Sexton, but also for a number of international Red Riders, including all of Team Australia, as well as Team Japan’s Kainosuke Oshiro and Team Spain’s Ruben Fernandez.

“The Motocross of Nations has always meant a lot to Honda, as evidenced by our proud history of success in the event,” said Brandon Wilson, Manager of Sports & Experiential at American Honda. “We’re pleased not only that Chase Sexton has been selected for Team USA, but that Jett and Hunter Lawrence will compete for Team Australia, highlighting both the competitiveness and the international aspect of Team Honda HRC. As American Honda, of course we’ll be pulling for Team USA, but because the event will be held on U.S. soil this year, we also relish the opportunity to welcome and host our Honda friends and partners from all over the globe. We’re hoping for a positive event for every Red Rider on the entry list.”

Ahead of the Motocross of Nations, Team USA is organizing a Golf Tournament Fundraiser, to take place on September 4 at Redhawk Golf Club in Temecula, California. Honda is sponsoring a hole, and participants will have the opportunity meet and compete with motocross athletes including Sexton, as well as Team Honda HRC manager Lars Lindstrom and crew chief Grant Hutcheson. For more information, visit raiseit4usa.com

About American Honda

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the United States. American Honda’s Powersports Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.

Source: American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

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