2026 Supercross Season Preview: Anaheim Opener Set to Showcase Star-Studded Field
The 2026 Supercross season kicks off on January 10 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, featuring a competitive lineup in the 450SX Class, including five past champions: Jason Anderson, Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton, defending champion Cooper Webb, and Jett Lawrence, the reigning SMX World Champion from Australia.
Challenging this elite group will be contenders vying for their first title, such as Hunter Lawrence (2025 SMX World Championship runner-up), Ken Roczen, Dylan Ferrandis, and notable former champions Justin Cooper, Aaron Plessinger, Malcolm Stewart, and Justin Barcia.
As the series transitions to outdoor racing on May 30, Jett Lawrence will attempt to defend his Pro Motocross title against formidable competitors including Chase Sexton, Eli Tomac, and Dylan Ferrandis. Rising stars such as Hunter Lawrence, Justin Cooper, rookie RJ Hampshire, Jorge Prado, and Aaron Plessinger will also be in the mix for their inaugural championships.
The season’s schedule features three Triple Crown events, a fan-favorite format since its introduction in 2018, which disrupts the traditional Main Event format. These races are slated for Round 4 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, Round 9 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Round 14 at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio.
In the 250SX Class, the West Division Championship will commence alongside the main series with its first four rounds held in California and Texas: Anaheim on January 10, San Diego on January 17, another Anaheim round on January 24, and Houston on January 31. The East Division will launch with its first round in Arlington, Texas, on February 21, culminating in a series of critical dates through to April.
Key matchups are anticipated in the upcoming East/West Showdowns, particularly the first on March 21 in Birmingham, Alabama, and a second on April 4 in St. Louis, Missouri. The final showdown will take place at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on May 9.
Supercross will also feature FanFest events at nearly all rounds, offering fans unparalleled access to stars and teams, enhancing the overall spectator experience. Ticketing information for the event at Daytona International Speedway on February 28 will be made available through official channels.
As the season approaches, the competition is set to intensify, promising thrilling battles on the track.
