Jamie Keith went into the 2025 season with plenty of anticipation as he geared up for his first full campaign in the EMX125 Championship after securing a ride with Italian-based JK Yamaha Racing. Unfortunately, things didn’t unfold the way the young Brit had hoped.
A couple of injuries – one of which prematurely ended his season – meant he didn’t get the chance to impress and grow as a rider racing in Europe. It was a frustrating year, but there’s good news on the horizon. Keith recently got back on the bike and is already putting in the work ahead of 2026, with a full off-season to prepare properly.
Looking ahead, the 17-year-old will step up to the 250cc class, switching to Honda machinery for the next stage of his career. Keith has also made the decision to return to a privateer setup, working closely with his dad and a small group of people who have helped him along the way.
The plan for 2026 is clear: Keith will race the full MX2 British Championship, marking his first season in the UK’s pro ranks, while also targeting the EMX250 Championship. Budget will determine whether he can contest every round in Europe, but either way, it’ll be encouraging to see him back in the GP paddock on a regular basis. Strong results could even put him on the radar for a future team ride which would be a bonus.
“It’s been one heck of a year but after four-five months I finally got back on the bike. With all my injuries etc, I took the rest of the year off but now I’m back and the winter grind has started”, Keith told GateDrop.com.
“For the 2026 season I will be doing the British Championship in the Pro MX2 Class and over in Europe I will be racing in the EMX250 championship. For now it’s going to be a struggle as I’ve changed my whole setup as well as manufacturer, but I’m already loving the Honda 250cc”, Keith concluded.
With a new bike, a new class, and a fresh mindset, 2026 represents an exciting opportunity for Keith to relaunch his career. If he can stay healthy and build momentum, the British rider has the chance to prove himself at home as well as on the European stage.
