Triumph was expected to make its long-awaited U.S. 450 debut in Monster Energy AMA Supercross at Anaheim with Jordon Smith, but he’s still in recovery from surgery on his rotator cuff and labrum (due to a crash in qualifying at the SMX finale in September). Would the brand wait until Smith’s return in late February or find someone else to ride the bike? Answer: 250 rider Austin Forkner is getting the green light for the first six 450SX rounds on the TF 450-X.
Said Forkner: “I’m super excited for the opportunity to race in the 450SX division to start the 2026 season. Whether it turns out to be a little bit of a warm-up going into 250SX East, or potentially a full season if we decide to go that way, I think it’s a great opportunity. I’m excited to see where I stack up in the 450 class and I’ve been putting plenty of time in on the bigger bike in recent weeks. It’s been good so far. I think my style fits a 450 pretty well, and I can’t wait to head to A1 for the first round of the series.”
Remember, Forkner was considered a contemporary of Chase Sexton while coming through the ranks and could have moved to the 450 class years ago if not for numerous 250 seasons cut short by injury. The plan is still for Forkner to return to the 250s, but it’s interesting to hear him say this could become a full 450 season if it goes well.
“We looked at all our options, and having seen Austin ride the bike, it became obvious that it could be a positive opportunity for him to step up a category,” said Ian Kimber – Head of Global Racing Programmes, Triumph Motorcycles
Smith aims to return by round seven.
“We’ve been working on the rehab day in, day out and it’s going well, but the return to racing will not be until Arlington,” said Smith. “Of course, for me it’s super disappointing not to be out there from the start of the season, especially as this is a momentous occasion for Triumph and the next chapter in my career, but I can’t wait to be back out there and on the TF 450-X.”
