Sexton Captures 2024 Pro Motocross 450 Class Title at Ironman with Dominant Performance, KTM Sweeps Finale
In an electrifying climax to a summer brimming with fierce competition, the 2024 Pro Motocross Championship Finals, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, showcased the prowess of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Chase Sexton as he clinched the prestigious 450 Class title with a stunning 1-1 performance at the Tucker Freight Lines Ironman National. The Indianapolis area witnessed a banner day for KTM, further solidified by Frenchman Tom Vialle's triumph in the 250 Class, capping off a sweep for the Austrian brand.
Dominating the 450 Class: Moto 1 Highlights
Chase Sexton dominated at Ironman to capture the 450 Class title with an emphatic 1-1 effort for his sixth straight victory. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Kicking off the action, Phil Nicoletti of Muc-Off/FXR/ClubMX Yamaha grabbed the MotoSport.com Holeshot in his final Pro Motocross race. However, it was Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Aaron Plessinger who quickly took command. Chase Sexton swiftly advanced to third place, closely trailed by Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Eli Tomac. Plessinger took an early lead, but Sexton’s relentless pursuit paid off as he surged past Lawrence, marking a crucial championship-winning move. Within the race’s initial ten minutes, the top four riders were separated by just seconds, amplifying the intense showdown.
Aaron Plessinger finished in the runner-up spot to secure a KTM 1-2 finish. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Sexton adeptly maneuvered into first place, despite persistent pressure from Plessinger and a resurgent Lawrence. Establishing a decisive lead, Sexton clinched his 12th moto win of the season with a gap of 4.8 seconds over Plessinger, ensuring his first 450 Class title with one race still to go.
Moto 2: A Coronation Ride
Eli Tomac grabbed his 72nd career podium in just his second start of the season. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
The final moto saw Justin Cooper of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing taking the MotoSport.com Holeshot. Sexton showcased his brilliance once again, surging to the front within the opening lap. Cooper settled into third, with Lawrence, Tomac, and Plessinger in hot pursuit. Although Sexton briefly stalled his bike at one point, he quickly regained his lead and never looked back. His flawless ride culminated in another dominant win by 26.1 seconds over Plessinger.
Overall Standings and Reflections
Sexton’s unparalleled consistency culminated in a six-race winning streak, propelling him to the 450 Class title. Plessinger finished second overall, maintaining his impressive form, while Tomac secured third - a commendable comeback after his injury hiatus.
Chase Sexton (1st, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing): "This season has been incredible. Overcoming the struggles from last summer, to now riding the best I ever have, feels surreal. I crave more victories now."
Aaron Plessinger (2nd, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing): "I gave it my all today. It was a grueling, hot day, but moments on the podium make it worth every effort."
Eli Tomac (3rd, Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing): "Returning to the podium feels great. Jumping back into the fray isn't easy, but today the bike was perfect, and I’m thrilled to be back."
450 Class Overall Results
Chase Sexton (1-1)
Aaron Plessinger (2-2)
Eli Tomac (4-3)
Triumph in the 250 Class: Vialle Seizes Victory
Tom Vialle broke through for his first win of the season to give KTM a sweep of the day’s victories. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
In the 250 Class, Tom Vialle wrapped up his season with a remarkable performance. The Frenchman rode his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing bike to his first win of the season, achieving a 1-4 result, to end the season on a high note.
250 Class: Moto 1 Action
Tom Vialle began Moto 1 strongly, securing the MotoSport.com Holeshot and leading from start to finish. Despite challenges from Team Honda HRC’s Chance Hymas and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Jordon Smith, Vialle maintained a decisive lead. Misfortunes for competitors like Ty Masterpool further cleared Vialle’s path to a 4.4-second victory over Levi Kitchen of Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki.
Chance Hymas ended a four-race podium drought with a runner-up finish. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Moto 2: Battling to the Finish
The last moto mirrored the first, with Vialle once again at the front. This time, despite fierce battles with Hymas and Haiden Deegan, Vialle showcased tactical mastery. As the race progressed, Deegan’s surge saw him clinch the win, but Vialle’s fourth-place finish was enough to secure the overall victory.
RJ Hampshire landed on the overall podium in just his second race of the season. Photo Credit: MX Sports Pro Racing, Inc.
Reflections from the Podium
Tom Vialle (1st, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing): "I was super tired in the second moto, but managing to finish the season with a win is an incredible feeling. The bike felt great all day."
Chance Hymas (2nd, Team Honda HRC): "Ending the season with a battle like that was exhilarating. A bit of rest now, then back to prepare for the SMX playoffs."
RJ Hampshire (3rd, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing): "I came out here just for the gate drops, but I can't help but push hard in every race. I’m ready and excited for the playoffs."
250 Class Overall Results
Tom Vialle (1-4)
Chance Hymas (6-2)
RJ Hampshire (4-3)
As the season concludes, all eyes now turn to the SuperMotocross World Championship Finals, set to commence on September 7th at Charlotte Motor Speedway. With fresh titles on their belts, Sexton and Deegan lead the charge in what promises to be another exhilarating chapter in motocross history.
Stay updated with the latest in Pro Motocross by visiting ProMotocross.com and following their social media channels. Dive into the world of American motocross, where every race delivers a spectacle of unparalleled skill and excitement.
Chase Sexton Triumphs at Supercross Final, Jett Lawrence Clinches Title in Rookie Season
First place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing's Chase Sexton claimed victory at the final round of the 2024 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season, marking his second win of the season. The event, held at Rice-Eccles Stadium, also saw Jett Lawrence of Team Honda HRC secure his first Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship in the 450SX Class, becoming only the third rider in history to do so in his rookie season.
Second place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Third place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The day began with a weather delay, but the storm passed, and the racing commenced, showcasing thrilling battles and crowning four Supercross champions. In the 450SX Class, Justin Cooper of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing delivered a standout performance, securing second place, while Cooper Webb, also of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, finished third overall in the season, despite riding injured.
Seventh place 450SX Class, Supercross Champion – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
In the 250SX Class, the Dave Coombs Sr. East/West Showdown saw Haiden Deegan of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing emerge victorious, claiming his first East/West Showdown win. RJ Hampshire of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing and Tom Vialle of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing clinched the Western Regional 250SX Class and Eastern Regional 250SX Class titles, respectively.
First place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Second place 250SX Class, Western Regional 250SX Class Champion Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Eighth place 250SX Class, Eastern Regional 250SX Class Champion Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The event also marked the conclusion of the Supercross Futures AMA National Championship, with Cole Davies of Troy Lee Designs GASGAS emerging victorious.
First place SX Futures Class, SX Futures Champion – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The 2024 Monster Energy Supercross season, with its season-long battles and memorable moments, sets the stage for the 11-round outdoor season of Pro Motocross, promising more thrilling action and competition.
For fans looking to support a worthy cause, the Love Moto Stop Cancer auction, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s fight against childhood cancer, concludes on May 13th. Visit SupercrossLIVE.com/St-Jude to participate.
Tickets for the Pro Motocross season and all three SuperMotocross World Championship rounds are on sale now at www.MOTO.events. Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness the excitement of motocross firsthand!
Jett Lawrence Takes Back the Lead in Nashville Supercross!
Nashville Supercross Delivered Drama and a Points Shakeup
The Monster Energy Supercross season heated up in Nashville, Tennessee, with championship points leads changing hands in both the 450SX Class and the 250SX Class.
First place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Jett Lawrence, Team Honda HRC, secured a convincing victory in the 450SX Main Event, reclaiming the red plate after a four-round winless streak. Eli Tomac, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, grabbed the holeshot but eventually finished second. Cooper Webb, also of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, came in third, dropping him back five points behind Lawrence in the standings.
Second place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Lawrence Ecstatic About Returning to the Top Spot
"I hate losing," Lawrence said in the post-race interview. "But [I'm] really pumped to come out and get it done here... This [win] is leading in the good direction, so hopefully we keep it going."
Third place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Hampshire Dominates Inaugural East/West Showdown
First place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The 250SX Class saw the first-ever East/West Showdown, where riders from both regions battled it out. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing's RJ Hampshire emerged victorious, grabbing the holeshot and pulling away from the pack. This win also propelled him to the top spot in the Western Regional 250SX Class point standings.
A Night of Firsts and Close Calls
Second place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Team Honda HRC's Jo Shimoda secured a strong second-place finish in the Showdown, while Red Bull KTM Factory Racing's Tom Vialle took third. Vialle's performance earned him enough points to take the lead in the Eastern Regional 250SX Class championship.
Third place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Cooper Webb Edges Out Sexton in Nail-Biting Seattle Supercross
Cooper Webb Clinched His Third Victory
First place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
In a heart-pounding showdown at Lumen Field, Cooper Webb of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing clinched his third victory of the season in the 2024 Monster Energy Supercross series. The thrilling race saw Webb narrowly beating out Chase Sexton from Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, with fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Second place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The track conditions at Lumen Field were challenging, with deep ruts formed by earlier rain. Despite the difficult terrain, Webb and Sexton put on a spectacular show, battling fiercely for the lead. Ultimately, it was Webb who crossed the finish line first, with Sexton hot on his heels, less than a second behind.
Third place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Jett Lawrence of Team Honda HRC also delivered a strong performance, finishing in third place despite facing setbacks earlier in the race. In the Western Regional 250SX Class, local favorite Levi Kitchen of Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki dominated the competition, securing a commanding win in front of his hometown crowd.
Reflecting on his victory, Webb praised the intense competition and expressed gratitude to his team and supporters. Sexton, while disappointed with his second-place finish, acknowledged the improvements in his performance and commended his team for their efforts. Lawrence, despite facing challenges during the race, remained positive and focused on securing a podium finish.
Kitchen Wins Hometown
First place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
In the 250SX Class, Kitchen celebrated a well-deserved victory, highlighting the importance of perseverance and self-belief. RJ Hampshire of Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing and Jo Shimoda of Team Honda HRC rounded out the podium, showcasing their resilience and determination on the demanding track.
Second place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Third place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Ken Roczen Roars to Victory at Glendale Supercross
In a night that reverberated with the thunderous roar of engines and the passionate cheers of a record-breaking crowd, Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki's Ken Roczen emerged as the triumphant victor at Round 6 of the 2024 Monster Energy Supercross season, held at the iconic State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
From the very start, Roczen dominated the race, seizing the Holeshot and maintaining an iron grip on the lead throughout the event. This impressive victory marked Roczen's third win at the State Farm Stadium, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with on the Supercross circuit.
"I haven't won much in the recent years so I take these moments in so much… My start was really good. I got a super good jump. I may have shut the throttle off a little bit too early, so I almost got swallowed up there. But I had the inside and as I went around the first turn I'm like, 'This is what I need'… The track was really tricky, it just got so slippery. I made so many micro-decisions on the track in certain areas that I picked out; as I ran through some of the first few laps I just noticed some of the key spots that are really tricky and can really bite you. So I just managed the race the whole way… I tried to not look at the time, I just clicked my laps, lap after lap. My Progressive ECSTAR Suzuki was working flawless out here today. I haven't done many changes at all and it shows. You know, I've got to give it up to my whole team, my crew behind me, Peyton at home, my family, Griffin this is for you. I've been telling him the whole time I'm going to bring some trophies home, and especially wins, so I finally did it and this is an unbelievable moment for us." – Ken Roczen
Joining Roczen on the podium were Monster Energy Kawasaki's Jason Anderson, who secured a hard-fought second place, and Team Honda HRC's Jett Lawrence, who battled his way to a well-deserved third place finish.
Second place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
"Oh 100% [I'm happy with a podium]. I'm really excited to walk out here with second. But at the end of the day I felt like I left a little on the table. I started riding tight there for a second, but, with how gnarly our class is, it's pretty cool to be up here… Honestly this is one of my home races so everyone from the 505 out here, thanks for showing up and supporting." – Jason Anderson
Third place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
"[I] didn't give myself the best opportunity to go on for a win today with just getting a terrible start. But it was cool to climb my way through. It was a cool accomplishment to catch and pass Eli… So it was a cool accomplishment and just happy I was able to fight back to a podium position. [The] front boys they were gone… so especially going similar speeds here you can't catch up, you can't give 'em that extra gap… It was a good finish to get third, especially with how it started." – Jett Lawrence
In the Western Regional 250SX Class, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing's RJ Hampshire emerged victorious, delivering a stellar performance and clinching his second win of the season.
First place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
"[It was] a really tough day. Man, I had that case [coming up short on the track's large double jump in the] first timed practice. Man, that hurt me quite a bit. [I'm] getting up there in age so those don't go by so fast… [In the] main event, got a decent start, made those passes quick. And [then] just kinda rode my own race… You know [my win at] A1 was so easy, and then, you know, you have some bad luck… Man, we work hard and it's awesome to repay this whole Austrian team with another win. We get six weeks off now [for the west coast 250SX Class] so I get to recover a bit, but yeah, so stoked! Thank you! Arizona was awesome to me, ready to go back home." – RJ Hampshire
Second place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
“[Regarding Jordon Smith jumping into Levi while the ‘do not jump’ lights were flashing] I don’t know. Like, that’s a bad situation. I feel really bad, I’m glad Smitty’s okay. But yeah, you come around and they’re blinking. I didn’t know if I could jump on, and he jumped on behind me and we hit. Luckily we’re both okay… That’s a weird thing with the lights and everything. I just didn’t want to be in the wrong, and get docked. Glad I’m healthy, glad he’s healthy, and yeah, stoked to go into this long break with the red plate, obviously.” – Levi Kitchen
Third place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
“We’ve been working hard in the weekends with the team but the results sometimes [are] not showing… The main event [podium], I kinda got gifted, I guess, but [it’s] some kind of way to start my groove again… I missed the feeling [of being up here on the podium].”– Jo Shimoda
Get Your Tickets
Tickets for the remaining Monster Energy Supercross events are on sale now at Moto.events.
As the championship race intensifies, the excitement and anticipation continue to build. Stay tuned for more thrilling Supercross action as the season unfolds!
Webb Triumphs in Anaheim 2 Triple Crown Showdown
Monster Energy AMA Supercross enthusiasts witnessed a sensational night of racing at Angel Stadium as Cooper Webb secured victory at the Anaheim 2 Supercross, marking the first of three Triple Crown events this season. The Triple Crown format, combining results from three races, added an extra layer of intensity to the competition, and Webb emerged victorious with consistent (2-2-5) race performances.
Angel Stadium, with its clear skies, provided the ideal backdrop for the spectacle that unfolded. The event, considered by many as the true start of the season following two mud races, drew a spirited crowd of 43,753 fans.
Second place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
In the 450SX class, the Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing team showcased its prowess. Eli Tomac, going (5-7-1), thrilled the crowd with a stellar performance, clinching second place overall. Webb's teammate, Aaron Plessinger of Red Bull KTM, secured third place with (6-4-3) results, maintaining his lead in the championship points.
Webb shared his thoughts on the unique Triple Crown format: "If you do really well the first two [races], the third one sometimes is easy… I had a lot of wiggle room [in Race #3] and could just, honestly, have a solo ride in fifth place. But it is a little bit weird, for sure, to not go over the checkered flag first. But I think that’s kinda the unique thing about the Triple Crown, is we’ve seen a lot of this happen."
Eli Tomac expressed his determination after the first two races: “I was pretty frustrated after those first two [races]. I was like, ‘Okay, here I’m just – what am I now, fifth – seventh place guy right now?’ I don’t know. I just had to go do something, I had to get off the gate there, so it was good. It was good. Had a good flow. I was able to get the whoop combo down, and I felt like that was important for me, and yeah, felt good.”
Third place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Looking ahead, Aaron Plessinger is eager to carry the red plate into Detroit: “I knew Detroit was the next race and I really, really wanted to carry the red plate into Detroit given the events that happened last year. That’s gonna be a special race and yeah, I’m ready for it."
In the Western Regional 250SX Class, Levi Kitchen of Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki showcased his determination, claiming the overall win with (1-2-3) race scores. Kitchen becomes the fourth different winner in four rounds, highlighting the competitiveness in the class.
First place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Levi Kitchen reflected on the tight competition: “We’re all really close right now. Obviously I want to be the dominant guy, but yeah, it’s closer now. You can’t start in like fifth and sixth with these guys and have them up front. You’d have to have a pretty amazing – I don’t even know what you’d have to do to be able to get up to them."
Second place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
“For the first time in my career I had a flat tire on a Supercross track, so yeah, it was eventful. I knew something was wrong, didn’t necessarily know what until it shot me off in the whoops… I was fine the next couple laps, and then once that rear tire breaks the bead and it’s off the rim, that’s when it gets really, really scary. But overall it was an awesome night. That first and second moto were sick. If we could do that every weekend, I mean, we’d probably get paid a lot more because that was a show. [smiles]. But like I said, that was fun. All in all, it was a really solid day.” – RJ Hampshire
Third place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
“[The new bike is] the same motor package but a whole different chassis. So all the suspension characteristics are completely different. So we’re still leaning, but I think I got a good package this weekend. I felt like it was a big step in the right direction for me, and we’re still learning, still working, still trying to get a little bit better, but last week [in testing] I think we found a little bit and it showed this weekend… It was a very hardpack track out there today and on the bike I was racing a couple weekends ago I was struggling pretty bad with the hardpack. So yeah, it was definitely a little bit better spot for me.” – Nate Thrasher
First place SX Futures Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
“It was an awesome battle. We were just going back and forth. And it was super tiring, I was breathing so hard and, you’re just glad to be on top… I couldn’t even feel myself. I was like so frickin – I was like in a dream it felt like.” – Cole Davies (#17)
As the series heads to Detroit, Michigan, for Round 5 at Ford Field on Saturday, February 3rd, the daytime schedule will add a unique element to the racing experience, starting at 3:00 PM Eastern Time. The event will also kick off the 9-round Eastern Regional 250SX Championship.
Stay tuned for more fierce competition in the pursuit of victory in the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship. Every race is available live on PeacockTV, with select rounds airing on NBC, USA Network, CNBC, NBCSports.com, and the NBC Sports app. Don't miss the action-packed spectacle as the riders gear up for more intense battles in Detroit.
For ticket information, visit Moto.Events. The journey continues, and the excitement only intensifies as the season progresses.
Jett Lawrence's Historic Triumph at A1 Sets the Stage for 2024 Supercross Thrills!
RJ Hampshire Reigns Supreme in the Western Regional 250SX Class Opener
The roar of engines, the scent of exhaust and the thunderous applause of 45,050 fans – that's the symphony that echoed through Angel Stadium as Team Honda HRC's Jett Lawrence etched his name in Supercross history. Lawrence not only conquered the 450SX Class Main Event but did so in a rookie feat that defies the sport's rich history.
First Place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
As the 33rd season opener unfolded, Lawrence's decisive victory electrified the crowd, marking the fourth consecutive sold-out year for the event. In the shadow of this momentous win, Monster Energy Kawasaki's Jason Anderson secured second place, while Red Bull KTM's Chase Sexton clinched the final podium spot in the 50th anniversary season of AMA Supercross.
Second Place 450SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The excitement wasn't confined to the 450SX Class; the Western Regional 250SX Class witnessed Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing's RJ Hampshire seizing the first win of the 10-round championship. A stellar performance that earned him first place points and an early-season lead.
First Place 250SX Class – Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Key Highlights:
Jett Lawrence's Historic Win:
Lawrence becomes the first rider to win their debut 450SX Class Main Event, a rookie feat for the ages.
Podium Standings:
Second Place: Jason Anderson (Monster Energy Kawasaki)
Third Place: Chase Sexton (Red Bull KTM)
RJ Hampshire's Triumph:
Hampshire secures first place in the Western Regional 250SX Class opener, claiming early-season lead.
Quotes:
Lawrence on the significance of his win: "It’s cool that it took that many years for someone to do it. I’m definitely grateful..."
Anderson on the battle with Cooper Webb: "Me, Coop, and Jett, for a good 15 minutes of that moto were pretty even..."
Sexton on the season ahead: "I come out here to win and be up front, so not only Jett, but everybody else, I gotta go out there and race as hard as I can..."
Western Regional 250SX Class Results:
First Place: RJ Hampshire
Second Place: Jordon Smith
Third Place: Levi Kitchen
Next Stop: Oracle Park, San Francisco:
Round two kicks off on January 13th with an earlier start time and thrilling Opening Ceremonies at 8:00 p.m. EST.
The next battleground awaits at Oracle Park in San Francisco on January 13th. Brace yourself for an earlier start time and Opening Ceremonies that kick off at 8:00 p.m. EST. It's not just a race; it's the first chapter of a 17-round Monster Energy Supercross season that also fuels the 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship.
Jett Lawrence Wins Post-Season Final and SuperMotocross World Championship
Haiden Deegan Takes 250 Class Title with Victory at Final
Team Honda HRC’s Jett Lawrence won both motos at the SuperMotocross World Championship Finals Fueled by Monster Energy inside Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Australian racer earned the win on the night and the points needed to become the sport’s first SuperMotocross World Champion.
The 2023 SuperMotocross World Championship season wrapped up where the sport of Supercross got its start, inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen finished a close second place in both motos and with that the points for the runner-up position in the inaugural post-season championship. Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton, the points leader heading into the round, led the final moto but a bad crash in the track’s sand section relegated him to third position in the championship. It was Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Cooper Webb who took home the third place spot at the Los Angeles Final and with that secured the fourth place spot in the championship. In the 250 Class, rookie Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Haiden Deegan won the night as well as the 250 Class title to wrap up his first year of professional racing as a World Champion.
Jett Lawrence’s 1-1 moto scores did not come easy. The Honda rider pushed hard to win the first-ever post-season race series and it’s $1,000,000 bonus. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The first moto of the 450 Class was off to an exciting start, but just after taking over the lead in the opening laps Troy Lee Designs Red Bull GASGAS Factory Racing’s Justin Barcia crashed hard and the race was red-flagged. The racers then lined up for a staggered re-start with 16 minutes remaining on the race clock. After the re-start Ken Roczen went after leader Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Jason Anderson while Lawrence moved past Sexton to take over third. Roczen cut under Anderson in the bowl turn after the sand section to take the lead with 12:43 left on the clock. Lawrence was launching a large quad jump and used it to make up the gap and put an inside pass attempt on Roczen in the following corner. The riders came together; Lawrence nearly fell, and Roczen held the lead. On the next lap Lawrence used his advantage with the quad jump to make the pass into the lead while behind him Sexton had passed Anderson for third place. Roczen later said he knew about the quad jump option, and with Lawrence inching away he decided to also launch the long jump each lap. Roczen closed from 1.8 seconds back to bring the lead to just one second, but the German rider could not get close enough to make a pass attempt. At the checkered flag Lawrence took the moto win ahead of Roczen, Sexton, and Anderson. The first moto finishing positions would combine with the second moto results to determine the World Championship and its $1,000,000 bonus.
Chase Sexton grabbed the holeshot of the second 450 Class moto and with it put himself in the points lead for the title. He led Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo, Jason Anderson, Cooper Webb, Jett Lawrence, and Ken Roczen. By the third corner, Lawrence was up into third place while Roczen worked on Webb in the early, tight racing. With just over two minutes off the clock in the 20-minute plus one lap moto, Roczen pushed his way into third place and the stage was set perfectly for the top three in points to settle the fight for World Champion. Sexton had pulled out more than a four second lead at the race’s midpoint, then made a dramatic mistake in the sand section; Sexton got leaned over going off a sand jump, landed hard, and was out of the race. It was then down to two, with Lawrence maintaining a lead over Roczen of just over one second. Roczen would close the gap in some parts of the track, but overall Lawrence maintained a small bit of breathing room. As the clock neared zero Roczen got held up by a lapper and dropped back three seconds. In the final two laps Roczen tightened the gap back up but never got in range to make a pass. Lawrence launched off the finish line double, setting of the winner’s pyrotechnics on the track and a string of fireworks around the legendary stadium. With 1-1 moto scores, Lawrence took the Final win and with it the SuperMotocross World Championship and its $1,000,000 bonus. Roczen earned second place in both the race and championship and pocketed $500,000 for himself, and Chase Sexton took third place in the championship and a $250,000 bonus. At the final event podium, it was Cooper Webb who stood third on the night with 5-3 moto scores and enough points to finish fourth in the championship and its $200,000 bonus.
Haiden Deegan, in his rookie year, notched a World Championship with a strong and smart ride at the season’s Final and took home a $500,000 bonus. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The first 250 Class moto was a thriller from the drop of the gate. Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jalek Swoll grabbed the holeshot ahead of Haiden Deegan, Red Bull KTM’s Tom Vialle, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper, and Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Ryder DiFrancesco. Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki’s Jo Shimoda sat in ninth. Post-season points-leader Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence was not racing due to an injury during qualifying. Vialle was into the lead early but Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Jordon Smith was the rider on the move, pushing into third place five minutes into the 20-minute plus one lap moto. The lead pack stayed close. Then, with just over eight minutes left on the race clock, Smith pushed past Deegan for second and went after Vialle. In less than a lap Smith railed an outside line and charged side by side with Vialle through a jump section and up the legendary Peristyle. Smith took the lead and never looked back. Soon after, Deegan tried to square up a turn to get under Vialle, but Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire cut under and took third place away from Deegan. The two put up a back-and-forth exchange of passes as Shimoda closed in on both riders. With just over five minutes remaining on the clock the top five riders occupied the same rhythm lane. Deegan tried to bump his way past Vialle in a bowl turn, but the pass was unsuccessful and in the next corner Shimoda pushed his way by Deegan while he pushed the rookie wide at a corner exit. The final laps provided intense battles for both the lead and for third, with every rider pushing their hardest to be in the best position to win the World Championship. At the checkers Smith held on for the win, Hampshire was close in second, Vialle took third, Shimoda earned fourth, and Deegan crossed the line in fifth.
In the second 250 Class moto, Deegan was the first to pass the holeshot stripe but his teammate Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Levi Kitchen took over the lead before the second corner. Kitchen led Deegan, Justin Cooper, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Talon Hawkins, and Jo Shimoda. In the second corner, moto-one winner Jordon Smith went down, and Tom Vialle was off the track just one turn after that. Three laps into the race Shimoda took over fourth place, and from there the top four circled the track with none close enough to make a pass attempt on the rider ahead. Just before the midpoint Deegan looked to be making a move on Kitchen, but after nearly falling in a turn appeared to settle into second and prepare for a possible late-race battle. Jo Shimoda fell back to nearly seven seconds off the leader, but in the closing laps he put on one of his late-race surges. Shimoda closed in but never got close enough to challenge for third. At the checkered flag Kitchen took the moto win. Deegan earned second in the moto and with that enough points to win the overall for the event and, more significantly, win the first-ever 250 Class SuperMotocross World Championship by five points over Jo Shimoda. RJ Hampshire took third place honors in the post-season series.
Drew Adams took the win in the 250 World All-Stars Main Event that kicked-off the night’s racing. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The evening’s racing kicked-off with the 250 World All Stars Main Event, an invitational field composed of up-and-coming racers aged 15-19. Kawasaki’s Slade Varola grabbed the holeshot ahead of SLR Honda’s Noah Viney, Monster Energy Star Yamaha’s Gavin Towers, KTM Orange Brigade’s Preston Boespflug, and Kawasaki’s Drew Adams. In the early laps Viney tangled with Adams in a rhythm section and went down while Towers crashed in the same section right behind them. Adams kept his Kawasaki on two wheels; he caught Varola’s rear fender and applied heavy pressure with GASGAS Fly Racing’s Mark Fineis also in striking distance. Three minutes into the eight-minute plus one lap race Adams and Fineis pushed past Varola exiting a track section that was under a cross-flag, no-jump safety restriction. Adams pushed out a 1.5 second lead ahead of Fineis. Just behind, Team Green Kawasaki’s Krystian Janik was on Varola’s fender and pushing hard for second. The two riders put on a great battle, with Varola holding strong against the pressure and several pass attempts. At the checkers, 15-year-old Adams took the win, Fineis took second, and Varola held on for the final podium spot.
The exciting racing inside Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum concluded the inaugural SuperMotocross World Championship. The event will re-air twice, first on Sunday, September 24th at 4:00 p.m. ET on NBC and then on Monday, September 25th at 1:00 a.m. ET on CNBC.
The inaugural SuperMotocross World Championship brought thrills with the sports’ first-ever post season racing. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Notable on the night, Jett Lawrence moved from the 250 Class to the 450 Class mid-season after winning the 2023 Western Regional 250SX Class title; he won the World Championship in his 450 Class rookie year. Similarly, Haiden Deegan was in his rookie pro racing season, and in fact started it a few races into the Supercross season. Haiden Deegan also shares a history now with his father, Brian Deegan, who earned a Supercross win and landed the first 360 freestyle motocross jump both inside the storied stadium. With the SuperMotocross World Champions crowned and the full 2023 purse of $10 million dollars paid out, race fans look ahead toward 2024 racing; the 17-round Monster Energy AMA Supercross season and 11-round AMA Pro Motocross season schedules have been released.
The 2024 Supercross ticket pre-sale begins Monday, October 3rd at 10 a.m. ET for preferred customers and will run through Monday, October 9th. On Tuesday, October 10that 10 a.m. ET and then 10 a.m. in each subsequent time zone, tickets for all Supercross and Pro Motocross races will become available for sale to the public. For 2024 all Pro Motocross event ticketing will be done through Ticketmaster. Fans can find the race schedules, sign up for preferred access (Supercross), and make ticket purchases online at SupercrossLIVE.com and promotocross.com. The SMX World Championship Playoff and Final dates, locations, and venues will be announced at Round 1 in Anaheim in January.
All rounds in 2024 will be streamed live domestically on Peacock, while broadcast coverage will be shared between NBC, USA Network, and CNBC. Internationally, all rounds will be available to stream live and on-demand via the SuperMotocross Video Pass, available everywhere outside the U.S. Visit Peacock (Domestic) and SuperMotocross.tv(International) for details.
For video highlights, news, results, and to watch for the Playoffs and Final events schedule, please visit supermotocross.com.
450SX Class podium (racers left to right) Ken Roczen, Jett Lawrence, and Cooper Webb.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
450SMX Final Results
Jett Lawrence, Australia, Honda (1-1)
Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla., Suzuki (2-2)
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha (5-3)
Adam Cianciarulo, Murrieta, Calif., Kawasaki (7-4)
Colt Nichols, Muskogee, OK, Kawasaki (8-5)
Garrett Marchbanks, Coalville, Utah, Yamaha (6-7)
Ty Masterpool, Paradise, Tex., Kawasaki (9-9)
Fredrik Noren, Lidkoping, Sweden, Suzuki (11-8)
Phillip Nicoletti, Bethal, N.Y., Yamaha (12-10)
Chase Sexton, LaMoille, IL., Honda (3-20)
450SMX Class Championship Final Standings
Jett Lawrence, Australia, Honda (163)
Ken Roczen, Clermont, Fla. Suzuki (146)
Chase Sexton, LaMoille, IL., Honda (126)
Cooper Webb, Newport, N.C., Yamaha (120)
Aaron Plessinger, Hamilton, Ohio, KTM (104)
Adam Cianciarulo, Murrieta, Calif., Kawasaki (96)
Garrett Marchbanks, Coalville, Utah, Yamaha (92)
Jason Anderson, Rio Rancho, N.Mex., Kawasaki (91)
Colt Nichols, Muskogee, OK, Kawasaki (90)
Ty Masterpool, Paradise, Tex., Kawasaki (84)
250SX Class podium (racers left to right) Jo Shimoda, Haiden Deegan, and RJ Hampshire.
Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Justin Cooper, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., Yamaha (101)
Maximus Vohland, Granite Bay, Calif., KTM (98)
Tom Vialle, France, KTM (90)
Hunter Lawrence, Australia, Honda (89)
Jalek Swoll, Belleview, Fla., Husqvarna (88)
SMX 250 World All Stars Results
Drew Adams, Chattanooga, Tenn., Kawasaki
Mark Fineis, Westfield, Ind., GASGAS
Slade Varola, Simi Valley, Calif. Kawasaki
Krystian Janik, Oak Lawn, Ill., Kawasaki
Blake Gardner, Canyon Country, Calif., Kawasaki
Preston Boespflug, Battle Ground, Wash., KTM
Jaxon Pascal, Hudson, Colo. Honda
Enzo Temmerman, Visalia, Calif., Kawasaki
Noah Viney, Murrieta, Calif., Honda
Dilon Blecha, Fruita, Colo., Yamaha
Jett Lawrence Remains Undefeated in 2023 Pro Motocross Championship with Fourth Consecutive Win at High Point
Hunter Lawrence’s Moto 2 Prowess Continues for Fourth Straight 250 Class Win
Famed High Point Raceway hosted the East Coast debut of the 2023 Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, on Saturday, which featured the sport’s own unique Father’s Day celebration at the GEICO Motorcycles High Point National. The 46th running of the legendary event welcomed its largest crowd ever as rain on Friday coupled with dense morning cloud cover resulted in wet conditions that continued to evolve as sunshine emerged and started to dry out the racing surface. The most competitive afternoon of racing of the young season ended with the same result, as Australia’s Lawrence brothers both stood atop the overall podium for the fourth time to remain unbeaten and continue the dominance by Team Honda HRC, as Jett Lawrence remained perfect in the 450 Class and Hunter Lawrence continued his unbeaten streak in the 250 Class.
Moto 1
The first moto of the day began with Jett Lawrence out front for his sixth MotoSport.comHoleshot ahead of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Cooper Webb and Muc-Off/FXR/ClubMX Yamaha’s Garrett Marchbanks. Behind them, Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki’s Ken Roczen, making his first start of the season, slotted into fourth but made several quick moves on the opening lap to claw his way up to second.
Lawrence’s lead was three seconds at the completion of the opening lap, but Roczen went to work on chipping away at the deficit. While the German veteran was able to keep the Aussie upstart honest, Lawrence comfortably maintained the advantage until the halfway point of the moto. Roczen closed to within 1.5 seconds and as Lawrence looked to respond he tucked his front end on a downhill and went down. That allowed Roczen to take control of the moto and Marchbanks to move up into second as Lawrence remounted in third. With Roczen out front, it marked the first time this season that a rider other than Lawrence led a lap.
Lawrence went into rebound mode and was able to wrangle second from Marchbanks. At that point, with about a dozen minutes left in the moto, Roczen and Lawrence were separated by 5.1 seconds. Lawrence rode consistent, clean laps to close back in on the Suzuki and with six minutes to go the lead pair was separated by less than a second. Lawrence was patient and was able to reclaim the lead, but Roczen countered to put himself up front again. The Honda rider mounted another attack about a half lap later and secured the top spot for a third time. The battle was poised to continue with two laps to go, but Roczen tucked his front end and went down. He got back up quickly, but needed an extended period of time to get his Suzuki restarted, which cost him multiple positions on the track. He eventually resumed in seventh.
With the pressure gone, Lawrence cruised home to his seventh moto win in a row, which established a new record to open a 450 Class career. He took the checkered flag 26.2 seconds ahead of Marchbanks, who earned a career-best finish in second, while Webb rounded out the moto podium in third. Monster Energy Kawasaki’s Adam Cianciarulo was fourth, followed by Sport Clips/Beachview Treatment/Airline Vacuum Kawasaki’s Ty Masterpool in fifth.
Jett Lawrence is off to a historic start in his 450 Class career
with eight moto wins and four straight overall victories.
Photo: Align Media
Moto 2
The deciding moto saw Roczen storm out to the early lead with the MotoSport.comHoleshot, followed by Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Aaron Plessinger and Cianciarulo, while Lawrence experienced his worst start of the season in fourth. Known for his first lap speed, Roczen put the hammer down to open the moto and build a gap on the field. Cianciarulo was able to pass Plessinger for second, while Lawrence felt the pressure from Monster Energy Yamaha Factory Racing’s Dylan Ferrandis from fifth.
A three-rider battle soon started to unfold between Cianciarulo, Plessinger and Lawrence. As Plessinger looked to make a move on Cianciarulo he slid out, which caused Lawrence to stop to avoid hitting him. That moved Ferrandis into third, briefly, before Lawrence reclaimed the position.
As the first 10 minutes of the moto passed, the top three had distanced themselves from the rest of the field and were separated by 10 seconds. As the race carried on through the middle portion and approached the final 10 minutes Lawrence closed in on Cianciarulo for second and made the pass with relative ease. The lead duo were separated by 3.5 seconds as Lawrence sought to track down the top spot. Lawrence continued to ride the fastest laps on the track and it allowed him to make big gains on Roczen, which was further aided by lapped riders.
With six minutes to go Lawrence was within striking distance of Roczen and went on the attack as soon as the opportunity presented itself. An outside line on an uphill off-camber gave Lawrence the momentum he needed to surge past Roczen and put another moto win within reach. Roczen kept him honest for a while, but Lawrence closed out the moto strong to keep his undefeated record intact by 2.4 seconds over Roczen, with Ferrandis in third.
In his first race of the Pro Motocross season
Ken Roczen finished in the runner-up spot (7-2)
Photo: Align Media
Overall
Lawrence’s fourth straight 1-1 sweep equals the single-most-successful class start in the history of the sport as his eight consecutive moto wins to open his 450 Class career is shared with Hall of Famer David Bailey, who accomplished the same feat to start his 500cc career during the 1984 season. In his first start of the summer Roczen finished in the runner-up spot (7-2), while Cianciarulo finished in third (4-4) for his first podium result since the 2021 High Point National.
Lawrence added even more to advantage in the championship standings, which now sits at 49 points after four races over Ferrandis, while Webb sits third, 53 points out of the lead.
Adam Cianciarulo’s consistent 4-4 effort landed him
on the overall podium for the first time since the 2021 season. Photo: Align Media
Jett Lawrence, Team Honda HRC “It was tricky. You had to wait and be patient [with the track conditions]. It was sick being able to race with Kenny [Roczen]. I used to look up to him and now I got to race him, so I checked that off the list. It was a tough day. I didn’t feel too comfortable on the track with the ruts and everything, but I held on to go 1-1. It was a struggle of a day, but I’m pumped.”
Ken Roczen, Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki “I am beyond stoked. I appreciate all the support from the fans today. This was a tough one to come back to with the track conditions. I can’t believe I got second [overall] after that first moto with the crash. I felt good at the beginning [of Moto 2], but I struggled with lines and Jett was riding great. I think I’m going to have to do some more of these.”
Adam Cianciarulo, Monster Energy Kawasaki “That’s back-to-back weeks where the track was really difficult. You had to be 100% focused the whole time out there. It really was a mental battle as much as it was a physical battle. I had good pace early in the moto and that almost means more to me than the result. I still have a long way to go but I’m so excited to be up here.”
Adam Cianciarulo, Port Orange, Fla., Kawasaki – 134
Ty Masterpool, Fallon, Nev., Kawasaki – 92
Lorenzo Locurcio, Valencia, Venezuela, GASGAS – 85
Fredrik Noren, Lidköping, Sweden, Suzuki – 81
Derek Drake, San Luis Obispo, Calif., Suzuki – 79
Grant Harlan, Justin, Texas, Yamaha – 78
450 Class Highlights – GEICO Motorcycle High Point National
Moto 1
The opening moto began with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire out front with the MotoSport.com Holeshot, just ahead of his teammate Jalek Swoll and Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Jo Shimoda. However, Shimoda tipped over in the second turn and caused a log jam for the rest of the field, including Hunter Lawrence, the championship point leader. Both riders resumed with starts outside the top 10.
The clear track proved to be a major advantage for Hampshire who sprinted out to an early multi-second lead over Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing’s Haiden Deegan, who passed Swoll for second. Behind the leaders, Lawrence and Shimoda began a climb through the field, with Lawrence able to carve his way up the running order.
Despite the tricky conditions Lawrence made it look easy as he picked off riders, one by one, and broke into the top five nearly halfway into the moto. Back out front, in full control of the moto, Hampshire crashed out of the lead, which allowed Deegan to assume the top spot as Hampshire quickly remounted in second, more than three seconds behind his Yamaha rival.
The final minute of the moto saw Hampshire erase his deficit and mount a late attack for the lead. The rookie rider responded as Deegan looked to run clean, defined lines and force Hampshire to venture elsewhere. As a result, some minor bobbles by Hampshire allowed Deegan to extend his advantage. Hampshire closed in once more as they took the white flag. The Husqvarna rider bided his time and pulled the trigger on a pass with about a quarter lap to go. Their lines came together and resulted in some contact, which briefly halted Deegan’s momentum and allowed Hampshire to continue on.
Hampshire rebounded from his early misfortune to nab his second moto win of the season, 2.6 seconds ahead of Deegan, while Lawrence battled his way into podium position in third. Swoll followed in fourth, while Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Ryder DiFrancesco rounded out the top five.
Hunter Lawrence’s fourth Moto 2 win of the season
vaulted him to a fourth overall victory with 3-1 finishes.
Photo: Align Media
Moto 2
The final moto got underway with several of the sport’s newest faces out front, as Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Levi Kitchen grabbed the MotoSport.com Holeshot, but was quickly overcome by Team Honda HRC rookie Chance Hymas, which dropped Kitchen to second ahead of DiFrancesco. Behind them, many of the lead riders from the first moto found themselves on the ground, which included Hampshire, Deegan, and Swoll. Lawrence was also deep inside the top 20 off the start, but it didn’t take long for the point leader to move forward and slot into the top 10.
The clear track allowed Hymas to sprint out to a multi-second lead over the field, as Kitchen and DiFrancesco settled into second and third, respectively. As this unfolded, Lawrence put in a charge to break into the top five. He continued his push and eventually worked his way around DiFrancesco into third within the first 10 minutes.
Hymas continued to control the moto as it surpassed the halfway point, but Lawrence was on a tear forward, catching and passing Kitchen for second. Once there, it didn’t take long for the Australian to make big gains on the deficit to his teammate. Once he got within striking distance Lawrence wasted little time in making the move. He took advantage of some lapped riders to make an easy pass and seize control of the moto.
As Lawrence pulled away Hymas was forced to deal with pressure from behind from two-time world champion and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing rider Tom Vialle. The Frenchman looked comfortable in the conditions and was able to make a quick, clean pass on Hymas to move into second. The Honda rookie continued to lose ground to his competitors and eventually lost hold of third to Kitchen late in the moto.
Out front, Lawrence continued to build on his lead in the closing stages of the moto and soon found himself more than 10 seconds clear of the field. He took his fourth straight Moto 2 victory by 18.6 seconds over Vialle, while a last-lap battle for third unfolded between Kitchen and Shimoda, from which the Japanese rider prevailed.
Another resilient outing for RJ Hampshire earned
him a runner-up finish following 1-7 moto scores.
Photo: Align Media
Overall
Lawrence’s impeccable Moto 2 efforts once again landed him atop the overall podium to remain unbeaten. It marked the third time this season that 3-1 finishes proved to be the winning formula for the Australian, who now has five career wins. After a resilient ride to recover from his first-lap crash, Hampshire secured the runner-up spot [1-7], while Deegan earned his third podium finish in four races this season in third [2-6].
At the conclusion of the race, officials reviewed footage to confirm that Lawrence had violated Section 2.10, Item b.iii., 9.c.** of the AMA Pro Racing Pro Motocross Rulebook pertaining to the adherence of signal flags. As a result, Lawrence was penalized seven championship points. Event results were not affected.
The impressive winning streak to open the season has put Lawrence 28 points ahead of Deegan, who moved into second, and 42 points ahead of Hampshire, who now sits third. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper, who entered the day second in points, was forced to miss the afternoon motos following a crash in practice and dropped to fifth in the championship standings.
Rookie Haiden Deegan captured his third podium finish in four rounds with 2-6 results. Photo: Align Media
Hunter Lawrence, Team Honda HRC “It’s a good habit I guess [winning Moto 2]. I’m stoked. This track was wild. This is the country club of motocross so we’re going to watch Jett [Lawrence in Moto 2] and then we’ll go cheer on our buddy [golfer] Rickie Fowler at the U.S. Open. He loves moto and we should all support him.”
RJ Hampshire, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing “That’s all me [in the Moto 2 crash]. I got a decent start but I guess I came in too hot into the second corner. It’s a bummer I took out my teammate too. I’ll take it though. Second moto win of the season and another podium.”
Haiden Deegan, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing “That was some crazy racing. I crashed on the start and got ran over. Kind of the whole nine yards. My thought after that was either crash or get on the podium today. I gave it my all and it paid off.”
250 Class Overall Results (Moto Finishes // Points)
**Rule: 2.10. Signal Flags, b. Warning Flags and Signal Lights: iii. White Flag with Red Cross or Red/White Flashing Lights: 9. If Race Direction determines that there was a blatant violation of this rule, the penalty for non-compliance will be: During a Moto Race, if any positions are gained, the loss of the number of positions gained, plus the points and purse equal to two additional positions in the final results for that race, plus two additional points.
250 Class Highlights – GEICO Motorcycle High Point National
The 2023 Pro Motocross Championship will observe its first off weekend of the season before a return to action during the Independence Day holiday weekend. The annual FMF RedBud National from Buchanan, Michigan’s RedBud MX will celebrate 50 years of racing at one of American motocross’ most iconic venues on Saturday, July 1, for the fifth round of the summer. Coverage from RedBud will be streamed live, exclusively on Peacock, beginning with Race Day Live, presented by MotoSport.com, at 7 a.m. PT / 10 a.m. ET, and followed by 4.5 consecutive hours of uninterrupted race coverage beginning at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET.
Australia’s Lawrence Brothers Make American Motocross History at Opening Round of 2023 Pro Motocross Championship
Jett Lawrence Captures Victory in 450 Class Debut While Hunter Lawrence Prevails with Second Career 250 Class Win
The 2023 Pro Motocross Championship, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, got its 11-round summer season underway on Saturday at Fox Raceway under sunny Southern California skies for the KTM Fox Raceway National, presented by Fox Racing. The centerpiece of the new SuperMotocross World Championship began with heavy fanfare to see which riders would make the first statement in the grueling battles that lay ahead for the Edison Dye Cup (450 Class) and Gary Jones Cup (250 Class). After a memorable winter in Monster Energy AMA Supercross, the Australian siblings of Jett and Hunter Lawrence kept the momentum rolling to open the outdoor season with a landmark outing that saw them make American motocross history as the first siblings in more than a half century of the championship to win on the same day. Jett enjoyed an flawless afternoon in his 450 Class debut with a 1-1 sweep, while Hunter’s experience and consistency allowed him to emerge triumphant in the 250 Class with 3-1 finishes.
Moto 1
The opening 450 Class moto of the 2023 season saw the division’s newest face put himself out front off the start as Lawrence easily grabbed the MotoSport.com Holeshot and stormed out to an early lead ahead of Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Dylan Ferrandis, the 2021 titleholder, and Team Honda HRC’s Chase Sexton, the newly crowned Monster Energy AMA Supercross Champion.
Lawrence’s lead continued to grow as the moto wore on, as the young Australian looked comfortable and in full control in his first premier class race. As a result, the focus shifted to the battle for second between Ferrandis and Sexton. The Frenchman held control of second for nearly half of the moto, but Sexton showed patience and persistence and eventually made his move into the runner-up spot.
Out front, Lawrence enjoyed a carefree wire-to-wire performance and cruised to the moto win by 10 seconds over his teammate for a Honda 1-2, while Ferrandis finished with a firm hold of third. Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Cooper Webb followed in a distant fourth, with teammate Aaron Plessinger fifth.
Jett Lawrence amassed a flawless afternoon in his 450 Class debut,
leading every minute of both motos.
Photo: Align Media
Moto 2
The second and deciding moto once again saw Lawrence leading the field through the first turn to sweep the MotoSport.com Holeshots for the afternoon, but he immediately came under fire from Ferrandis. A couple of bobbles by the Yamaha rider saw him lose some momentum, which allowed Sexton to make the pass and give chase to his rookie teammate. Behind the lead trio, the KTMs of Webb and Plessinger added themselves into the mix.
It didn’t take long for the Hondas to inch away from Ferrandis and the KTMs, and the race soon turned into a one-on-one battle between Lawrence and Sexton. About two seconds separated the pair, with Sexton keeping Lawrence honest and settling in through the middle portion of the moto. As they entered the final 10 minutes Sexton picked up the pace and was able to decrease the deficit to about a second. They traded momentum at various points on the track and both navigated their way through lapped riders efficiently. As time ran out on the moto the teammates were closer than they had been all race.
A mere seven tenths of a second separated Lawrence and Sexton as they took the white flag, but Lawrence dug deep to open up just enough distance to manage the final push. Lawrence took the checkered flag a second ahead of Sexton, while Ferrandis, who never factored into the battle, finished a distant third, nearly 44 seconds off the lead.
Chase Sexton followed his teammate across the line each time,
going 2-2 for a runner-up finish.
Photo: Align Media
Overall
Lawrence led every lap and every minute of his first 450 Class race, which was complemented by the top time in both qualifying sessions, to complete perhaps the most impressive premier class debut in the history of Pro Motocross. Sexton was with Lawrence every step of the way en route to a runner-up effort (2-2) to cap off the second consecutive 1-2 sweep by Team Honda HRC at the Fox Raceway opener. Ferrandis’ 3-3 results rounded out the overall podium in third.
An unprecedented undefeated streak for Lawrence at Fox Raceway now extends to six races, across two classes, having won the previous five 250 Class events in Pala dating back to his first career win in 2020. He becomes the 75th different winner in 450 Class history and the first Australian since Brett Metcalfe won at Round 10 of the 2011 season.
Lawrence and Sexton are separated by six points after the first two motos of the summer, while Ferrandis sits 10 points out of the lead in third.
Dylan Ferrandis made a successful return to action with a solid 3-3 effort for third overall. Photo: Align Media
Jett Lawrence, Team Honda HRC “It’s awesome. I can finally smile. I’ve been trying to stay serious all day, but I’m too excited and can finally let loose. That one [Moto 2] was a little harder than the first one. I could keep hearing [Sexton]. It was a bit of a chess match. It’s great for Honda to have such a great day and hopefully that can continue. It’s going to be a war this summer. I can’t wait.”
Chase Sexton, Team Honda HRC “I had some decent lines to where if I got close enough I could maybe make a move. I did try at one point with about 10 minutes to go, but I messed up. Jett was riding good and he had a good pace. It’s a great start and we’ve got a lot to build on from here.”
Dylan Ferrandis, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing “I think it’s good to be in podium position. It was a long second moto, AP [Plessinger] was pushing me. I had to dig deep, so it was good for me and the team to have that experience.”
Adam Cianciarulo, Port Orange, Fla., Kawasaki – 29
Grant Harlan, Justin, Texas, Yamaha – 27
Jose Butron, Cadiz, Spain, GASGAS – 24
Lorenzo Locurcio, Valencia, Venezuela, GASGAS – 24
Fredrik Noren, Lidköping, Sweden, Suzuki – 20
Moto 1
The first 250 Class moto of the summer began with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Jalek Swoll at the head of the pack with the MotoSport.com Holeshot ahead of Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki’s Jo Shimoda and Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire, who both quickly passed Swoll to grab early control of the moto. Shimoda led briefly, but then gave way to a hard-charging Hampshire as Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Tom Vialle slotted into third.
Hampshire controlled the first 10 minutes of the moto then tipped over in a rut, which subsequently forced Shimoda to come to a stop with no way around. Both riders resumed quickly with no positions changed, but the incident allowed Vohland to close in from third. Not long after, Shimoda went on the attack and made the pass for the lead briefly, but Hampshire responded to regain control. As he looked to remount another attack Shimoda went down and lost multiple positions, which allowed Vohland and his Red Bull KTM Factory Racing teammate Tom Vialle, the 2022 MX2 World Champion, to move into second and third, respectively.
With no pressure from behind Hampshire opened a lead of nearly 10 seconds entering the final phase of the moto, which allowed Vohland to settle firmly into second. Behind them, the battle for the final spot on the podium continued as Shimoda clawed his way back into contention and brought Team Honda HRC’s Hunter Lawrence with him. Both riders were able to make their way around Vialle to drop the Frenchman to fifth and set their sights on Vohland in the closing minutes.
It was smooth sailing for Hamshire the rest of the way as the Husqvarna rider captured the third moto win of his career by 6.1 seconds. A torrid battle for second unfolded on the final lap as Shimoda and Lawrence closed in on Vohland. A lapped rider allowed Lawrence to get by Shimoda, from which the Australian rider continued his charge onto Vohland’s rear fender. However, the KTM rider withstood the challenge to secure the best moto result of his career in second, with Lawrence third, Shimoda fourth, and Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s Justin Cooper rounding out the top five.
Hunter Lawrence overcame soreness from a hard practice crash
to prevail with his second career win.
Photo: Align Media
Moto 2
The final moto saw Lawrence put his Honda out front with the MotoSport.com Holeshot as Vialle gave chase in second. Behind them, both Hampshire and Vohland were involved in incidents that dropped each of the top-two finishers deep in the 40-rider field. Shimoda didn’t fare well either and started outside the top 15 in the running order.
With a clear track ahead Lawrence easily built a multi-second lead over Vialle, who started to receive pressure from Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing rookie Haiden Deegan. As the top three settled in, the attention shifted to the recovery efforts of the riders that ran at the front of the field with Lawrence in Moto 1. Both Vohland and Shimoda soon found themselves racing one another in a climb up to the top 10, while Hampshire valiantly looked to overcome a pair of tip-overs on the opening lap. Vohland and Shimoda continued their march up the standings, which put both back into contention for the overall podium. The KTM rider was able to reestablish his spot in the overall classification, only to make contact with a rider and go down, which dropped Vohland outside the top 10.
Vohland’s misfortune shifted the momentum to Vialle and Cooper, who engaged in a late battle for third in the moto that would ultimately decide which rider would also secure that position in the overall standings. That was until Hampshire’s slow and methodical recovery saw him break into contention by approaching the top 10 in the running order. Hampshire was able to move himself onto the overall podium, only to watch it slip away with a third incident. The Husqvarna rider lost a couple positions but remounted and made one final push. He needed to pass a pair of riders on the final lap and was successful in doing so.
Back out front, Lawrence enjoyed a wire-to-wire performance that saw him cap off the afternoon with a convincing win, 8.4 seconds ahead of Deegan, with Vialle not too far behind in third.
Haiden Deegan landed on the overall podium for the first time
in just his third start, securing 6-2 finishes.
Photo: Align Media
Overall
Lawrence’s consistent 3-1 moto finishes not only gave the Australian the second victory of his career, but allowed him to establish a solid point lead after just one round. Deegan earned the first overall podium finish of his career in the runner-up spot (6-2), while Hampshire’s valiant late-race effort and impressively resilient moto as a whole allowed him to steal the final spot in third (1-11).
The opening round win established an eight-point lead for Lawrence atop the 250 Class point standings over Deegan, while Hampshire sits 10 points behind in third.
RJ Hampshire showed grit and determination on an up and down day
for hard-fought podium finish in third after 1-11 moto finishes.. Photo: Align Media
Hunter Lawrence, Team Honda HRC “The start was crucial. I had a massive crash Monday and could barely ride press day. I was in so much pain. This one goes out to Dr. G [H. Rey Gubernick]. He’s got magic hands and has taken care of me. I can’t thank [him] enough. He is an asset to our team.”
Haiden Deegan, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing “I’m actually kind of surprised. Some people said I wouldn’t have been close to this. I guess we’re kind of proving people wrong and that’s what I’ve got to do. Second place in my first season of outdoors, I’m hyped.”
RJ Hampshire, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing “Didn’t have a great start and it kind of got mayhem and in that second corner I went down. I picked up in last and made some really good passes and then going up the hill someone took my front wheel out and then I was dead last again. I didn’t know if I had a shot at the podium. I just started digging deep and making passes, then I threw it away again and had to get those back [once more]. Hey, I’ll take the podium.”
250 Class Overall Results (Moto Finishes // Points)
Justin Cooper, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., Yamaha – 34
Max Vohland, Sacramento, Calif., KTM – 34
Jo Shimoda, Suzuka, Japan, Kawasaki – 33
Guillem Farres, Balsareny, Spain, Yamaha – 29
Levi Kitchen, Washougal, Wash., Yamaha – 25
Carson Mumford, Simi Valley, Calif., Kawasaki – 23
The 2023 Pro Motocross Championship will continue next Saturday, June 3, from Prairie City SVRA in Sacramento, California, for the Carson City Powersports Hangtown Motocross Classic. The oldest race in American motocross will be streamed live, exclusively on Peacock, beginning with Race Day Live, presented by MotoSport.com, at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. PT, and followed by 4.5 consecutive hours of uninterrupted race coverage beginning at 1 p.m. PT / 4 p.m. ET.
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