The EMX125 series kicks off this weekend in Spain, and with many of last year’s top riders moving up to the EMX250 class, the championship is wide open. Fans can expect an exciting mix of talent, ambition, and potential breakout stars as the next generation of riders lines up for the first round of the 2026 season.
One manufacturer that always fields a strong EMX125 roster is Fantic, and this year is no exception. Danish prospect Bertram Thorius and Italian talent Gennaro Utech will carry the banner, eager to repay Fantic’s faith and make their mark in the series. Both riders arrive with opportunities to impress and set the tone for a strong season.
The MJC Yamaha team narrowly missed out on last year’s title with Mano Faure, but they return with French talent Sleny Goyer. After a promising rookie season cut short by injury, Goyer is expected to challenge at the front once again. Unfortunately, fellow MJC Yamaha rider Levi Townley will miss the opening round due to ongoing injury issues, though he remains a talent to watch once he’s back to full fitness.
Norman KTM Factory Rookies also boast a solid line-up, featuring Austrians Moritz Ernecker and Ricardo Bauer. Ernecker, known for his strong starts, impressed in pre-season testing and enters the season full of confidence. Bauer, who won a moto at the challenging Lommel track last year, adds another threat – though his recovery from a winter injury will determine how quickly he can return to top form.
Young Swiss rider Ryan Oppliger showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season and will be one to watch. Like Ernecker, his fast starts could make him a consistent contender as he gains experience in the EMX125 environment.
TM have signed up Italian rookie Andrea Uccellini, a highly rated talent expected to be stronger in his second year in the category. Meanwhile, Riccardo Pini remains in EMX125 for 2026, bringing experience and consistency that could see him on the podium multiple times this season.
The 737 KTM team, led by former GP rider Valentin Teillet, returns with a trio of riders: Leo Diss-Fenard, Eliot Buysschaert, and Rafael Mennillo. Teillet’s guidance helped develop Mathis Valin, and he will be hoping to replicate that success with his new roster.
Newcomers TMX Competition bring Liam Bruneau and Enzo Herzogenrath to the paddock. Bruneau steps back into EMX125 after racing a 250cc last year, while Herzogenrath arrives as a talented rookie, having won the EMX85 championship at Loket in 2025.
Estonian rookie Lucas Leok carries big expectations, hoping to follow in the footsteps of his father, Aigar, in becoming a GP rider. He may need time to adapt, but his talent suggests he won’t be far from the front once settled into the class.
The De Baets AIT Yamaha team will run Dex Kooiker, returning after racing with the team in 2024, and Torre Van Mechgelen, who will use his rookie season to gain experience and learn the ropes of EMX racing.
Swiss prospect Emil Ziemer aims to be more consistent in 2026 after showing glimpses of potential last year. He’s one of the emerging Swiss talents hoping to follow in the foorsteps of Jeremy Seewer, Arnaud Tonus and Valentin Guillod.
Dutch talent Timo Heuver embarks on his first full EMX125 campaign, looking to demonstrate the speed he shows in the Netherlands across Europe. He could be one to watch.
Italian rider David Cracco, now with a season of experience under his belt, will also look to strengthen his performance as the championship unfolds.
There’s British representation too. Drew Stock, who competed as a privateer last year, earned a ride with JK Yamaha through the Blu Cru Cup and had an impressive start to the British Championship. Hayden Statt, has been signed up by Chambers KTM, also returns aiming to improve on last year’s learning experience.
With so many exciting rookies, experienced campaigners, and strong teams, the 2026 EMX125 championship promises high-paced action and thrilling battles from the very first race in Spain.
