2026 AUSX Championship Round Two: Auckland Preview
Auckland, New Zealand – Round two of the 2026 AUSX Championship kicks off at North Harbour Stadium, heralding a pivotal homecoming for 19-year-old Cole Davies. The reigning champion, who has yet to race on this stage before friends and family, faces logistical challenges as his factory Yamaha has not yet arrived. Instead, he will compete on a production bike, assembled with parts rushed from the United States. However, he remains the favorite in the SX2 category, with competition from notable riders including Max Anstie, Brodie Connelly, Lux Turner, and Michael Hicks.
In the SX1 category, all eyes are on Ken Roczen, who is set to make his New Zealand debut. The defending Monster Energy AMA Supercross champion enters as a frontrunner, but Christian Craig poses a significant threat, having showcased impressive form in previous races, including last year’s WSX event. Australian Luke Clout, a strong starter, has the potential to challenge the top contenders, while veterans like Cedric Soubeyras and Jorge Zaragosa round out a competitive field.
Beyond the racing, Davies and Roczen have been actively engaging with fans and local media, enhancing the sport’s visibility through numerous promotional activities in the lead-up to the event.
Chase Sexton Rumors
In off-track news, Chase Sexton’s split from Monster Energy Kawasaki after just one season has left the paddock buzzing. Following the controversial departure, several teams including Quad Lock Honda, Pipes Motorsports Suzuki, and a potential return to Red Bull KTM have emerged as possible destinations for the 2021 450 Pro Motocross champion. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his next move, industry insiders suggest a shift to either Honda or Suzuki is likely.
Sexton is recovering from an ACL repair, which adds complexity to his transition to a new bike. As he navigates this critical offseason, the implications of his next decision will reverberate throughout the motocross community. Further updates are expected as the competition progresses into the season.
