MXON 2026: Spain Takes Early Lead Amid Controversial Crashes
Ernee, France — The opening moto of the 2026 Motocross of Nations (MXON) delivered a mix of strategy and drama, with Spain asserting control while France faced setbacks on home soil.
Teams employed a tactical approach to gate selections based on qualifying results. Spain’s Jorge Prado, starting on a favorable gate, shot to the front, followed closely by France’s Romain Febvre. However, disaster struck for France when 250 rider Mathis Valin crashed into a haybale, forcing him out of the race and necessitating a drop score. Team Manager Gautier Paulin confirmed Valin would return for the second moto later in the day.
In contrast, Team USA strategically positioned 250 rider Levi Kitchen on the inside gate, allowing him to secure a strong start, running in the top ten early on. His 450cc teammate, Julien Beaumer, initially found himself in 14th but recovered to finish 10th.
Notably, Spain’s MX2 World Champion Guillem Farres moved rapidly to fourth place, even after a poor gate selection, contributing positively to Spain’s burgeoning lead. However, a pivotal moment occurred when Prado, leading the race, crashed—allowing Febvre to seize command and ultimately secure victory. Prado’s second-place finish and Farres’ fourth helped Spain establish a commanding early advantage.
Belgium’s Lucas Coenen also impressed, returning from injury to clinch third, while teammate Sacha Coenen climbed to 12th despite a challenging gate position.
As the race unfolded, Kitchen was embroiled in a fierce battle with South Africa’s Camden McLellan and Italy’s Alberto Forato. The contest turned disastrous when Forato knocked Kitchen down, forcing him to seek mechanical assistance on the track and likely ensuring his score will be dropped. Beaumer’s 10th place will stand as USA’s best result in the moto.
At the conclusion of the first moto, Spain is poised for success, Belgium is in contention, and France’s hopes hinge on Valin’s performance in the second moto.
“For Kitchen, it’s a frustrating situation,” said Team USA’s Cooper Webb. “He was riding well, and we all know we have a target on our backs being Americans. Now, it’s time for us to perform.” He confirmed Kitchen sustained no injuries but expressed disappointment over his performance.
As the teams prepare for the second moto, all eyes will be on Valin’s recovery and the potential for a French comeback against a strong Spanish front.
