As the United States aims to defend its homeland during the 2025 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations next weekend in Crawfordsville, Indiana, it has been announced that R.J. Hampshire will join the team.
Due to injury, Chase Sexton will no longer be able to compete for the United States at the 2025 Motocross of Nations.
Filling this void for the weekend of October 3-5 is Hampshire, who will join Eli Tomac and Haiden Deegan on the team, to be managed by AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier.
“We’re deeply grateful to R.J. for stepping in at such short notice to represent his country,” Pelletier said. “R.J.’s commitment and professionalism is outstanding, and I know he is honoured and excited to represent the United States on home soil.”
Tomac will race in the MXGP class while Deegan will compete in the MX2 Class and Hampshire will seek victory in the Open Class.
“[I’m] really excited to get the chance to race for Team USA again! It’s an honour to race for this country and one I’ll never take for granted.
“Even if I wasn’t the first pick, I’ll always answer the call and give it everything I’ve got,” Hampshire said.
“A lot went into making this happen last minute, and I can’t thank my sponsors and team enough for pulling it together. Ironman is one of my favourite tracks, and I’m fired up to battle in the front with this team.”
Additionally, in support of Team USA, Justin Cooper is continuing to train to be prepared to ride if needed.
“I would like to offer our sincere appreciation to the versatile Justin Cooper for his unwavering dedication and professionalism,” Pelletier added.
“Justin is continuing to train at the highest level in an effort to be ready at a moment’s notice and support his fellow countrymen. This speaks volumes about his character, work ethic, and commitment to the team. His effort behind the scenes does not go unnoticed and is a true unsung hero of the sport and Team USA.”
The United States seeks its 24th Motocross of Nations title in 2025, having previously won the global competition in 2022 – the last time the Americans hosted the event.
Photo courtesy AMA
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