Neither Deegan nor Cooper? Star Racing Yamaha pulls out of 2026 MXoN

This withdrawal is a major setback for the 2026 MXoN on 4 October in Ernée, as it affects the US team: the logical choices for Team USA are Haiden Deegan for the MXGP class and possibly Justin Cooper for the Open class. These two riders are unlikely to be able to compete unless Yamaha Europe finds a last-minute solution.

Statement from Star Racing Yamaha

“Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing is withdrawing from the 2026 MXoN,” the team’s statement reads. “Due to the demanding schedule of the SMX series, and taking into account the associated travel and support costs, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing and Yamaha Motor USA have jointly decided not to field either the 250ccand 450cc teams will not be fielded for the upcoming 2026 Motocross of Nations in Ernée. The team would like to thank the AMA for their consideration and thanks its fans, partners and the entire motocross community for their understanding and support.”

Will the USA only field a B team?

Without Deegan and Cooper, putting together a strong line-up is proving difficult, and the AMA can now only hope for support from KTM. Although Eli Tomac is still not 100 per cent fit, he recently showed at Budds Creek that he is continuing to improve. Aaron Plessinger also secured another top-10 finish recently, and with Julien Beaumer, the Americans would have a strong rider in the MX2 class.

Topic of the week

Ferrari row with Hamilton and Leclerc: Team principal Vasseur must now step up

Ferrari came away empty-handed at the Dutch Grand Prix: Lewis Hamilton finished fourth, Charles Leclerc fifth. Afterwards, both drivers were angry, and team principal Fred Vasseur found himself having to explain the situation.

Mathias Brunner

Read more