Cole McCullough is one of the riders on the move ahead of the 2026 season as the talented Northern Irish youngster has inked a deal with the De Baets Yamaha team.
McCullough enjoyed an eye-catching start to the 2025 campaign, immediately establishing himself as one of the standout riders in the EMX125 category. The teenager showed genuine race-winning speed, claiming an impressive moto victory at Arco di Trento and putting himself on the podium in the deep sand of Riola Sardo. His early-season performances underlined his ability to run at the front against Europe’s best young prospects.
Unfortunately, his momentum was halted when a wrist injury prematurely ended his season, forcing him to watch from the sidelines for much of the year. Despite the setback, McCullough’s raw speed and maturity on the bike did not go unnoticed in the paddock, and his name has remained high on the list of teams planning for 2026.
After spending the past two seasons racing Fantic machinery in the European Championship, McCullough is ready for a major step in his career. For the upcoming season, McCullough will switch manufacturers, moving to Yamaha machinery, while also stepping up to the fiercely competitive EMX250 category. 2026 will mark McCullough’s rookie season in the class as he takes on older and more experienced opposition.
The De Baets Yamaha team have decided to secure McCullough’s services for the 2026 season. The programme also includes him racing a 250cc two-stroke machine in the EMX250 series.
De Baets Yamaha have put together an extensive line-up for 2026 across multiple championships. In EMX125, the team have signed up two young riders in the form of Dex Kooiker and Torre Van Mechelen. The structure continues to place a strong emphasis on youth development, offering riders a clear pathway through the European ranks.
Meanwhile, Lotte van Drunen has already been confirmed with De Baets Yamaha for the 2026 season. The Dutch star will be chasing a third consecutive Women’s Motocross World Championship title after her recent success, further strengthening the team’s presence at world level.
