Sexton Withdraws from Final Pro Motocross Rounds, Focuses on SMX Playoffs
Chase Sexton, the Red Bull KTM rider, announced via Instagram that he will miss the final two rounds of the Pro Motocross series to prepare for the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) Playoffs. Sexton emphasized the importance of entering the playoffs at full strength after experiencing a brake malfunction that led to a DNF during the second moto at Ironman.
After a solid performance leading up to the incident, Sexton noted the setback affected his right shoulder, which he will have evaluated this week. "It’s in my best interest to get ready for SMX and come in at 100%,” he stated, reflecting on the significance of recovery in the days ahead.
Currently, Sexton holds third place in the 450SMX standings with 510 points. However, he is at risk of dropping to fourth as Jett Lawrence is poised to overtake him following the Unadilla National. Malcolm Stewart, currently 51 points behind, and Hunter Lawrence, 83 points behind, also have a chance to surpass Sexton as the Budds Creek National concludes. With Eli Tomac trailing by 106 points, Sexton is assured of at least a sixth-place entry into the SMX Playoffs, given Aaron Plessinger’s inability to catch up, as he is also out for the remaining rounds.
Sexton’s decision reflects a strategic move to prioritize his physical fitness for the upcoming challenges in the SMX series.
Current 450SMX Standings
- Jett Lawrence
- Aaron Plessinger
- Chase Sexton (510 points)
- Malcolm Stewart
- Hunter Lawrence
Sexton’s aspiration to enter the playoffs fully prepared is a critical insight as he gears up for a crucial segment of the season.
