Italian rider, Michael Conte will make the step up from the EMX125 class to the EMX250 series for the 2026 season, marking his rookie campaign in the EMX250 class.
Conte will continue racing a two-stroke machine, lining up on a 250cc Yamaha while remaining under the support of the MJC Yamaha team. Adding further strength to his program, former GP rider Nico Aubin will work closely with Conte, providing experience and guidance that could prove crucial for the young Italian.
“I’m very happy both to change category and to compete in the EMX250, because recently I was struggling with the 125 class due to my physical build. I’m very motivated because, thanks to Yamaha and the MJC team, I can perform in the 250 class of the European Championship,” Conte told GateDrop.com.
“The switch to a 2-stroke was a proposal from the MJC team together with Yamaha to develop this bike, and having been chosen gives me an extra motivation to give my best. The MJC team is definitely a great support for me and is fundamental for competing at this level, because on my own with my family it would be difficult. Thanks to them, there will be more news coming in January, and I’m very grateful for their belief in me and all they do on my behalf,” he added.
Being his first year in the class, Conte is keeping his expectations realistic. “I don’t have big expectations, but I definitely aim to qualify, score some points, and I’ll try to give my absolute best,” he concluded.
With Yamaha and MJC backing him, and guidance from Aubin, Conte will be looking to learn as much as possible as he takes on the EMX250 challenge in 2026.
