As the 2024 Supercross and Motocross seasons approach, the much-anticipated “silly season” is coming to a close, with contract announcements and team changes being confirmed. Here’s a rundown of the key updates in the 250 class, highlighting both major shifts and renewals across various teams.
Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki
Mitch Payton’s Pro Circuit Kawasaki squad will see minimal changes for the upcoming season, with most riders staying onboard. However, the biggest news is the departure of Austin Forkner, a long-time member of the team, moving on after years of racing exclusively with Kawasaki. Forkner’s next destination is covered later in this article.
Renewals for the team include Seth Hammaker and Cameron McAdoo, both signing new two-year contracts that will keep them with the team until 2026. Additionally, Garrett Marchbanks, who previously raced for Pro Circuit before moving to ClubMX, will return to the squad on a one-year contract.
Another major signing is Ty Masterpool, who impressed during his fill-in ride for the team in 2024. Masterpool has earned a two-year contract, securing his place through 2026. Meanwhile, Levi Kitchen remains under contract for 2025, though his future beyond that will depend on his performance next season.
The team also has Drew Adams, who is expected to continue under his Team Green contract for 2025. While he’s likely to race the full Pro Motocross season, there’s a chance he could get called up for Supercross if other riders suffer injuries.
Triumph Factory Racing
The Triumph Factory Racing squad is expanding its presence in 2025 with a four-rider 250 team. Jalek Swoll is the only rider continuing from 2024, while both Jordon Smith and Stilez Robertson join from the Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing squad. Smith has signed a two-plus-one-year deal, while Robertson is on a two-year contract.
The fourth rider for Triumph will be Austin Forkner, marking a major shift in his career after departing Kawasaki. Forkner’s deal also includes a 450 option, with the possibility of him debuting in the premier class as early as 2026, depending on his performance.
Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing
The Star Racing team is always in the spotlight due to the sheer number of riders they manage. Departing the team are Jordon Smith, Stilez Robertson, Nick Romano, and likely Enzo Lopes, whose return depends on his recovery from injury.
Returning for 2025 are Haiden Deegan and Daxton Bennick, both under contract through 2026. Deegan, in particular, has 450 potential, but it’s expected that he will remain in the 250 class for at least the 2025 season. Michael Mosiman and Max Anstie, who joined the team mid-2024, are also confirmed for the next two years.
New addition Pierce Brown from the Troy Lee Designs (TLD) GasGas team has also signed on for 2025 and 2026. Additionally, Nate Thrasher re-signed with Star Racing, securing his place for the next two seasons.
On the amateur front, Star Racing has added Cole Davies, Kayden Minear, and Carson Wood, ensuring a strong future pipeline for the team.
Rockstar Energy Husqvarna
Husqvarna’s 250 roster for 2025 will include Casey Cochran, Ryder DiFrancesco, and RJ Hampshire, although Hampshire will split time with the 450 class. Ryder D will race on GasGas-branded equipment as the GasGas team is absorbed into the Rockstar Husqvarna program. Departing from Husqvarna are Guillem Farres, who is expected to head back to Europe, and Christian Craig, who is moving on to a different team.
Troy Lee Designs GasGas
The TLD GasGas team will undergo significant changes in 2025, as Troy Lee steps away from running the GasGas factory program. The team will be on hiatus until a possible return in 2026, potentially becoming the Ducati factory program. Meanwhile, Justin Barcia and Ryder DiFrancesco will move over to the Rockstar Husqvarna team while still riding GasGas equipment.
Red Bull KTM
No major changes are expected for KTM’s 250 team, with Tom Vialle and Julien Beaumer continuing on with the squad. Vialle will look to defend his Supercross Regional Championship, while Beaumer enters the final year of his current deal.
Honda HRC
The Honda HRC team remains stable, with Chance Hymas and Jett Lawrence both under contract through 2026. Joe Shimoda also remains with the team after securing a contract extension through 2026, solidifying Honda’s lineup for the next few years.
Muc-Off FXR ClubMX Yamaha
Lastly, the ClubMX Yamaha team will continue with Coty Schock and the recently signed Maximus Vohland, who inked a two-year deal. There were rumors about a potential switch to KTM or GasGas for 2026, but for now, the team will stay on Yamaha.
As the 250 class wraps up its contract signings for 2025, many exciting moves and new deals have set the stage for an intense and competitive season. Keep an eye on these riders as they chase glory in both Supercross and Motocross.
