Why 2026 Could Be the Biggest Motocross Season in Years

Every season brings its share of transfers and surprises, but it’s hard to remember a time when so many of the sport’s biggest names have switched teams all at once. The “silly season” has lived up to its name, and the ripple effect is already making 2026 look like one of the most unpredictable and exciting years in recent memory.

A Wave of Big Moves

Here’s a snapshot of the rider shuffle shaking things up:

Tim Gajser to Yamaha – After years as Honda’s cornerstone, Gajser is expected to make a huge leap to Factory Yamaha, a move that could completely reshuffle the MXGP title fight.

Jeffrey Herlings to Honda – The Bullet linking up with Honda would be headline news in any season. If healthy, Herlings is still one of the fastest men on the planet.

Tom Vialle returning to MXGP – After his stint in the U.S., Vialle is rumored to be heading back to Europe, likely with Honda, adding another layer of depth to an already stacked MXGP gate.

Jorge Prado leaving Kawasaki – Prado’s future is up in the air. Speculation points toward a KTM return and possibly a U.S. campaign, which would be massive for American motocross.

Maxime Renaux to Ducati? – Rumor has it Renaux might leave Yamaha for Ducati in 2026.

Chase Sexton to Kawasaki – One of the brightest stars in U.S. racing, Sexton swapping brands brings fresh intrigue to the 450 Supercross and Pro Motocross titles.

Jason Anderson to Suzuki – A potential switch that could breathe new life into Suzuki’s racing program.

Haiden Deegan moving to the 450 outdoors – After dominating headlines in the 250 class, Deegan stepping up full-time to the big bike outdoors will be one of the most closely watched moves.

Christian Craig to Honda – A rider with plenty of experience and smooth style, Craig joining Honda would give them another solid, reliable option.

Eli Tomac to KTM – After a legendary run with Yamaha, Tomac is set for a fresh chapter on orange, bringing his veteran speed and race-winning pedigree to KTM’s already stacked program.

Dylan Ferrandis & Justin Barcia to Ducati – Two proven front-runners linking up with Ducati’s ambitious new motocross project — a bold move that could make or break the brand’s entry into the sport.

Malcolm Stewart to Triumph – Stewart brings his explosive style and personality to Triumph’s debut effort in Supercross and motocross, instantly giving the team credibility and fan appeal.

Glenn Coldenhoff to HEP Suzuki (USA) – The ever-consistent Dutchman making the switch to the U.S. with HEP Suzuki adds international flair and proven experience to their 450 program.

And that’s just the headline list — there are smaller shifts happening in satellite squads and factory structures across both MXGP and AMA paddocks.

Why It All Matters

This isn’t just about riders getting new jerseys. Moves of this scale shift the balance of power:

Factories realign – Losing a star like Gajser forces Honda to rebuild its strategy, while Yamaha suddenly becomes a major championship threat.

New rivalries spark – Riders crossing paths in new championships or teams creates fresh storylines for fans and media.

Pressure rises – Switching bikes and teams often lights a fire under riders. Some thrive with the change; others struggle to adapt.

Uncertainty fuels excitement – With so many unknowns, 2026 feels like it’s wide open. It’s no longer clear who the favorite really is, and that makes it even better for fans.

Storylines to Watch

• How quickly can Gajser gel with Yamaha?

• Can Herlings bounce back and win at Honda after a rough stretch of injuries?

• Will Vialle’s return give him a second wind in Europe?

• Is Prado ready to chase success in the U.S., or even a return to MXGP?

• Can Deegan handle the step up to the 450 class outdoors?

• And will these changes spark a new manufacturer arms race in both MXGP and AMA?

When so many champions and fan favorites change colors in a single off season, the stage is set for something special. Between Gajser’s leap to Yamaha, Herlings’ rumored Honda move, and the wave of U.S. stars shuffling brands, the 2026 season looks anything but predictable.

One thing is certain: the gate will drop on a year where every moto feels like it could rewrite the story. And that’s exactly why fans are already counting down the days.