AMA Announces New Leadership for Team USA: Transition from De Coster to Pelletier
In a significant shift for American motocross, the AMA has appointed Mike Pelletier as the new director of racing, tasked with leading Team USA. This decision aligns with the operational frameworks employed by various FIM National Federations and marks a new chapter following Roger De Coster’s legendary tenure.
Pelletier emphasized the challenges of succeeding De Coster, stating, “The hardest job in the world might be following in the footsteps of Roger ‘The Man’ De Coster… Our intention is not to fill Roger’s shoes but to adopt a model that leverages the talents and input from our riders and their managers.”
De Coster, a five-time 500cc Motocross World Champion, retires from his national team leadership role, having assembled Team USA for numerous international competitions. His impressive resume includes six wins at the MXON and ten at the Trophee des Nations, alongside his gold medal performance at the International Six Day Trial. An AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame inductee since 1999 and a Hall of Fame Legend since 2011, De Coster’s impact on the sport is unparalleled.
Despite stepping back from Team USA, De Coster continues to influence the sport as the motorsports director for KTM North America, having previously managed the KTM factory team in AMA Supercross and Motocross.
Under Pelletier, Team USA will aim to harness diverse strategies from various riders and their teams, reinforcing the collaborative approach essential for success in international competition.
