Young Irish talent Alfie Herron is set to take a significant step in his career this weekend, as he prepares to make his EMX125 debut at the iconic Arco di Trento track in Italy. The move comes after Herron’s switch to TM machinery for the 2026 season, with the promising rider now firmly embedded within one of the most respected junior setups in the EMX125 class.
Herron will line up under the MCV Motorsport awning, the team responsible for running the official TM junior programme. This places him alongside Riccardo Pini and Cristian Amali, offering the Irish rider a valuable opportunity to learn in a highly competitive environment.
“It’s a privilege to ride the TM bike and work with the whole TM team. I am feeling really happy with the TM machinery, It’s a really strong bike which helps me as I am a tall person. I decided to compete in an EMX125 round this weekend because I really wanted to get in this paddock and when the opportunity came up, I really wanted to compete and see what I could do with such fast guys”, Herron told GateDrop.com.
Having most recently competed in the semi-experts class at the opening round of the Ulster Championship, Herron now faces a major jump in intensity. The EMX125 class is widely regarded as one of the most competitive feeder categories in European motocross, meaning simply qualifying for the races will be a challenge in itself. However, the experience gained could prove invaluable for his long-term development.
“I do follow the EMX125 series and I look how the boys I race with are getting on. This is also why I made the jump to go this weekend, I wanted to see how I will get on amongst the European competitors. I have always grown up watching this track in Arco di Trento. I am excited to go there. It looks so good, it is so well known and in such a nice place which will also be nice to visit”.
Despite the step up, Herron is approaching the weekend with a clear objective and an open mind regarding future appearances in the championship. With interest already in potentially contesting further rounds, his performance in Trentino could shape the direction of his season.
“There are fast guys and everyone wants to qualify so that is my goal, for sure I will give it my all. We have looked at some other EMX125 rounds but we are just taking it round by round. We will see how we get on this weekend in Trentino”, Herron concluded.
Herron’s EMX125 debut marks an exciting milestone for the young Irish rider, as he tests himself against some of the best young talent in the world. While the immediate goal is to qualify and gain experience, the weekend at Arco di Trento could prove to be the beginning of a broader European campaign. Regardless of the result, stepping onto this stage represents a bold and important move in his progression.
