Connect with us
       

Monster Energy MXoN

Dissected: Picking Team USA

The biggest MXoN question.

Published

on

Who should represent Team USA at the Motocross of Nations? This was once a simple question, as it was a foregone conclusion more often than not. When Matterley Basin last played host to the prestigious race, which was eleven years ago, the team was supposed to consist of Ricky Carmichael, Ryan Villopoto and James Stewart. There was not much debate.

This season could not be more different though, as debate has raged on across the globe. Ryan Dungey is retired, Eli Tomac has a frantic schedule, Jason Anderson requires surgery and others just are not on form. Who is left to represent Team USA? That is the real question. The only thing that seems set in stone is that Zach Osborne will get the opportunity that he has longed for and finally be a member of the squad. Based on current form, ‘16’ may end up as the strongest member.

The best-placed American riders in the 450MX standings, Eli Tomac and Blake Baggett, are out, so Cole Seely is seemingly the next option. Seely has limited experience abroad though; he has not even taken part in some of the traditional events that are run throughout the off-season. That would perhaps be more of a worry if the event was held at a circuit like Loket or even Ernee, but Matterley Basin boasts many traits that resemble a circuit on the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross tour. Just take a second to think about how incredible it would be to see Seely, who was an unknown on a Fun Centre Suzuki in 2009, at the MXoN. What a story that would be!

Enlarge

Site-Cole-Seely
Cole Seely is undoubtedly a candidate to represent the USA.

Honda Racing Corporation

Based on the current landscape, one would presume that Seely can almost not be ignored. The fact that the transition to Europe would be made seamless by the united HRC outfit makes him even more of an attractive option. Who else even is there in the 450MX division? Cooper Webb is undoubtedly an option, but has commented that even he is not overly keen to travel to the United Kingdom for a race in October. Webb did not rule it out though and, if he is willing, it seems most likely that he will get a third shot at racing for the USA.

Weston Peick, Justin Bogle, Christian Craig and Justin Barcia are next up in the 450MX standings. The latter has undoubtedly been considered, because of the fact that he has been great at the MXoN in the past, but the fact that he has just hit his head and will most likely be switching teams makes him a long shot. A majority of contracts expire at the conclusion of September, so those who are moving to a different awning would be in a rather sticky situation.

Enlarge

Site-Justin-Barcia-1
Justin Barcia must be considered at least, despite his lacklustre results.

Monster Energy/Ryne Swanberg

Selecting talent from the 450MX division may be difficult, because of the current circumstances, but bumping 250MX riders to the bigger bike is undoubtedly an option to ponder. When considering the situation that Team USA are in, 2009 tends to arise at the forefront of my mind. Similar problems beset the nation in the weeks prior to the event and, consequently, Ryan Dungey was bumped up to the 450F. Dungey completed three Monster Energy Supercross events on a 450F in 2008, but had not ridden the bike outdoors at a professional level or contested the MXoN before.

Jake Weimer rode a 250F for the United States, despite the fact that he finished fourth in the series standings that year and had won just two motos in his career, and Ivan Tedesco completed the team. Although they were hardly the favourites on paper, the Chamberlain Trophy was retained and they managed to defy the odds. Risks can pay off at an event as unique as the Motocross of Nations. Pundits are eager to see riders like Jeremy Martin and Aaron Plessinger, who is reportedly going in for surgery at the end of the season, considered for a 450F role, for that very reason. Heck, Cooper Webb was bumped up just one year ago! Don’t be surprised to see a similar scenario play out this season.

This speculation will end on Saturday, as the American Motocross of Nations team is typically announced at Unadilla. That historic circuit, which played host to the prestigious event in 1987, will act as the tenth Lucas Oil Pro Motocross round this weekend.

Words: Lewis Phillips | Lead Image: Honda Racing Corporation

Monster Energy MXoN

Joel Roelants appointed new Team Manager for Belgium

See now.

Published

on

I (Joel Roelants) am delighted to announce my appointment as the new Team Manager for Belgium. It is a tremendous honour to lead this team and collaborate with a highly talented generation of riders. My commitment is to elevate Team Belgium’s performance and strive for podium success in the years ahead.


Words: Press Release | Lead Image: Bavo Swijgers


While I acknowledge my relative youth in this position, I am driven and motivated to guide this collective effort to new heights. I extend my sincere gratitude to the dedicated individuals behind the scenes who volunteer their time to support our team, as well as our valued sponsors for their unwavering commitment.

I express my appreciation to the Belgian supporters and acknowledge the tireless efforts of the teams working diligently to ensure our riders represent our country with utmost pride. Together, let us embark on this journey towards excellence.

Best regards,
Joel Roelants

Love what we do? Please read this article as we try to raise £30,000.

Continue Reading

Monster Energy MXoN

The MX Vice Show Episode #155 with Zach Osborne

Listen now.

Published

on

In the latest MX Vice Show, Zach Osborne talks to Ed Stratmann and Brad Wheeler about his brilliant career in Europe and America, some of his awesome stories from his time in the GP paddock, his inspirational journey to the top, his future plans, training Jack Chambers, Steve Dixon, launching his new training service, the upcoming 2024 AMA Supercross season and more.

The MX Vice Show is as always available to listen to on Spotify, iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher and Google Play. Thanks to Parts Europe, Scott, Acerbis, Fly Racing, AS3 Performance, ARMA nutrition, Holeshot Motorhomes and Even Strokes for their support of The MX Vice Show. If you would like to become a part of the show, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Find out more about Holeshot Motorhomes including the Commander motorhome for motorsports HERE!

Lead Image: AMA Supercross

Love what we do? Please read this article as we try to raise £30,000.

Continue Reading

Australian Motocross

The MX Vice Show Episode #152 with Lee Hogan

Listen now.

Published

on

In the latest MX Vice Show, former Aussie motocross star Lee Hogan talks to MX Vice Editor Ed Stratmann about his commentary and media work, his role as Factory Honda Junior Team Manager, the state of play in Aussie moto and supercross, training young riders, his excellent career, MXoN memories, how thankful he is for all those who support him and much more.

The MX Vice Show is as always available to listen to on Spotify, iTunes, SoundCloud, Stitcher and Google Play. Thanks to Parts Europe, Scott, Acerbis, Fly Racing, AS3 Performance, ARMA nutrition, Holeshot Motorhomes and Even Strokes for their support of The MX Vice Show. If you would like to become a part of the show, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Find out more about Holeshot Motorhomes including the Commander motorhome for motorsports HERE!

Lead Image: Lee Hogan

Love what we do? Please read this article as we try to raise £30,000.

Continue Reading

Latest