Race Report: Ironman Pro Motocross National Preview
As the Ironman Pro Motocross National approaches, championship leaders Jett Lawrence and Haiden Deegan are in a strong position, both having recently secured contract extensions. However, at the previous Washougal round, they faced defeat in the overall standings, with Chase Sexton (450 class) and Jo Shimoda (250 class) taking top honors.
This weekend promises ideal weather conditions in Indiana, setting the stage for an event that also serves as a precursor to the upcoming FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) in October. The Team USA lineup is anticipated to comprise Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton, and Haiden Deegan, marking Deegan’s debut appearance. Following his recent departure, former Team USA manager Roger De Coster will continue to support Sexton throughout the MXoN preparations.
Team USA riders will be identified by numbers #4, #5, and #6, with Deegan confirmed to wear #5. Further decisions regarding the MXGP and Open class riders will be released later, as noted by AMA’s Mike Pelletier.
In addition to the Team USA announcement, the day will feature the third and final SMX Next Combine and the opening moto of the fourth round of the Women’s Motocross (WMX) series. The Combine will showcase top talents, including Enzo Temmerman, winner of the AMA’s Nicky Hayden Horizon Award, and three 2025 LLMX champions: Deacon Denno, McKayden Fitch, and Owen Covell, alongside returning competitor Caden Dudney.
International interest is high, with French team manager Gautier Paulin and the full Team Australia contingent present for reconnaissance. Notably, the Ironman National is set to occur in the same year as the MXoN, a rare occurrence for U.S. tracks, despite historical precedents at previous locations. Australia’s defending champions, including the Lawrence brothers, will also compete in the remaining Pro Motocross rounds.
Looking beyond the Ironman event, the SuperMotocross World Championship is entering its final stages, with remaining rounds in Charlotte, St. Louis, and Las Vegas. Riders will aim to secure their positions in the seeded spots as six motos remain in the series.
This weekend’s events will be critical as athletes prepare for both national competition and international representation at the MXoN.
