Defending champion Jett Lawrence cannot take part in the SMX Playoffs

The drama was already on the cards at the season finale at the Ironman Raceway. Australian HRC works rider Jett Lawrence is not fit. His right ankle, which he injured earlier this year, continues to cause him problems. Jett is due to undergo further surgery in Colorado on Wednesday 9 September, meaning he will miss all three SMX Playoffs. The first Playoff takes place this coming weekend in Columbus, Ohio.

Statement from Jett Lawrence

“With a view to my future, I want to get my ankle back to 100 per cent fitness,” explained Jett. “I’ve battled my way through the summer and done everything I could to win the outdoor championship. But my ankle hasn’t felt right since the start of the season, and it’s got even worse since Ironman. I want to do everything I can to get back to my old self. The most important thing is that I’m pain-free again with a view to next year.”

Problems throughout the entire outdoor season

Lawrence was able to compete in the entire AMA Pro Motocross season and proved extremely competitive. He won four races and finished runner-up overall behind his team-mate Hunter Lawrence. Throughout the season, however, Jett struggled with severe pain and discomfort. After aggravating the injury again in the first race at the Ironman Raceway, he experienced intense pain and instability in the joint.

HRC line-up for the play-offs

HRC will field the newly crowned 450cc AMA Pro Motocross Champion, Hunter Lawrence, in the 450cc class for the play-offs. Last year, Hunter Lawrence finished runner-up in the SMX overall standings, just behind Jett. In the 250 class, Jo Shimoda and Chance Hymas will be competing. Jo Shimoda is the defending champion in the 250 class.

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