The SuperMotocross League has announced a significant partnership with AUSX to launch a new series called SMX Next Australia. This initiative marks the first regional extension of the official SMX Next development program, which serves as a feeder system into the prestigious Monster Energy SMX World Championship. The SMX Next Australia series will complement existing races within the Supercross and Pro Motocross circuits, enhancing opportunities for riders in the region.
Australia has a rich history in motocross, producing top talent such as Hunter Lawrence, who clinched the 450 Pro Motocross championship in 2026, and Cole Davies from New Zealand, who emerged as the 250 champion. Since its inception in 2023, the SMX World Championship has seen participation from over eighty athletes hailing from more than twenty countries. Notably, German rider Ken Roczen secured the 450 Supercross titles, while Davies also achieved success in the 250 East category.
The SMX Next program was established in 2024, bringing together various elements of motocross development, including the SMX Next Supercross program, Moto Combines from Pro Motocross, and the SMX World All-Stars. This unified approach aims to streamline the development of riders and enhance their competitive edge on the world stage.
Mike Muye, Senior Director of Supercross for the SMX League, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Australia and New Zealand have long produced some of the greatest talent in the world in the likes of Ben Townley, Chad Reed, and now the Lawrence brothers and Cole Davies. SMX Next Australia creates a premier pathway for riders who are working to advance in the sport and pursue elite level goals. The focus is on identifying, encouraging, and supporting the next generation of SMX talent." This sentiment underscores the commitment to nurturing future stars in the sport.
The inaugural AUSX Supercross Championship is set to kick off on Saturday, October 3, in Townsville, Queensland. The series will feature several key events, including stops in Auckland, New Zealand, on October 31, Geelong, Victoria, on November 7, Perth, Western Australia, on November 14, and Newcastle, New South Wales, on November 28. These events will provide a platform for emerging riders to showcase their skills and compete at a high level.
Among the anticipated competitors in the 2026 series is Lachlan Turner, a three-time WMX champion, who will be testing her skills against male competitors. Her participation highlights the growing inclusivity within the sport and the opportunities available for female athletes in motocross.
Adam Bailey, President of the AUSX Supercross Championship, expressed optimism about the future of the sport, stating, "By creating additional opportunities for athletes, SMX Next Australia can help strengthen the future of racing throughout Australia and New Zealand. SMX Next Australia supports rider development while helping build fan interest, participation, and momentum for the sport abroad. The program will continue to build on the strong heritage we already have by investing in future generations and giving emerging athletes a stronger platform." This initiative aims to cultivate a vibrant motocross community and inspire the next wave of talent.
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