Unfortunately, New Zealand has announced its withdrawal from the 2025 Motocross of Nations, scheduled to be held at Ironman on October 4th and 5th. Since their first appearance at the “Des Nations” in 1987, the New Zealanders have competed 32 times, only missing a few editions (1989, 1999, 2002, and 2021).
This news is especially disappointing considering that new talents are emerging from New Zealand, such as Cole Davies (Star Racing Yamaha) and Brodie Connolly (Quad Lock Honda), who could have benefited from gaining experience at the MXON.
Last year, Team New Zealand finished 22nd at the Motocross of Nations held in Matterley Basin, with Hamish Harwood, Brodie Connolly, and Josiah Natzke. They failed to qualify for the Sunday races after finishing 3rd in the B Final.
Below is official press release from the New Zealand Federation.
“Motorcycling New Zealand has made the decision not to send a team to the 2025 Motocross of Nations (MXoN). While this decision was not made lightly the absence of expressions of interest this year has provided a moment to pause and reset. Our focus now turns to the future – supporting our next generation of riders to represent New Zealand on the world stage in years to come.
New Zealand has a proud and passionate history at the Motocross of Nations. Over the years, we have shared unforgettable moments and proven that Kiwi riders can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world. As we look ahead, we are committed to recreating some of those ‘good times’ and podium-worthy performances that have inspired so many.
New Zealand MXoN Podium Finishes:
3rd 1998 – Foxhills, England | Team: Darryll King, Shayne King, Josh Coppins
3rd 2001 – Namur, Belgium | Team: Daryl Hurley, Josh Coppins, Shayne King
3rd 2006 – Matterley Basin, England | Team: Josh Coppins, Cody Cooper, Ben Townley
We also came tantalisingly close to the podium with strong 4th place finishes in:
2003 – Zolder Belgium | Team: Josh Coppins, Shayne King, Ben Townley
2005 – Ernee France | Team: Cody Cooper, Josh Coppins, Ben Townley
These achievements remain a benchmark for what is possible with a focused and well-supported team. We believe that we can return to the MXoN stronger and more competitive than ever.
We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and sincerely thank our team managers, Shayne King and Bevan Weal, their tireless commitment, countless volunteer hours, and efforts in raising hundreds of thousands of dollars throughout the years have been instrumental in getting New Zealand teams to the start gate at the MXoN.
We are also incredibly grateful to the Taupo Motorcycle Club, who host the Battle of the Clubs as a fundraiser for the New Zealand team attending the event. Thanks to their commitment and the generosity of all Clubs that partake in the event, and the wider Motocross community, significant funds were raised, these will be carried forward to support our campaign for the 2026 Motocross of Nations. Their efforts are appreciated and will help ensure our next team is well resourced and ready to represent New Zealand with pride.
We also thank all the sponsors over the years, Penny Holmes, Best Build Construction, Nutrition Systems, DUB Construction, Priority Demolition, and of course our wider Motocross community.
We look forward to rallying behind our future teams as they work to bring New Zealand back to the top.”
