Triumph Racing has been making waves in the Motocross and Supercross world. Despite a short time in the sport, they have already worked with riders like Mikkel Haarup, Jordon Smith, and Austin Forkner so there’s plenty to discuss. We caught up with Ian Kimber, Head of Global Racing Programmes at Triumph Racing, to get the latest on Haarup’s unique deal, the development of Triumph’s 450cc machine, and MXGP plans for the future. Kimber also shared insights on Smith’s Supercross season, Forkner’s comeback, and what’s ahead for Triumph’s growing presence in top-tier motocross racing.
GateDrop: Ian, Mikkel Haarup is currently in America and rumours suggest he’ll race the AMA Nationals this year. Is this something you can confirm?
Kimber: (laughs) There will always be rumours around racers! Obviously, we announced that we signed Mikkel for a development year, and ahead of us moving to MXGP. Having the facility in the US, and a team based there allows us to use it as a training compound for any of our riders, road or off road. Jonny Walker is current training there too after the SuperEnduro season.
GateDrop: We also believe he was actually going to race Supercross for Triumph after injuries to other riders but then he got injured himself. What was the injury, and it looks like he’s all good now?
Kimber: He flew out at the start of the year, to ensure he stayed bike fit, as obviously this is going to be really important to keep him riding at intensity for MXGP. He did pick up a small injury during training, but he’s back riding again, and putting the motos in. It’s just a risk with riding off road.
GateDrop: I don’t think he has ridden or tested the new 450cc Triumph machine yet. When will he start developing/testing the 450cc to prepare for the 2026 season?
Kimber: Mikkel was actually at our 450cc launch, at our compound, so has put a significant number of hours in on the standard machine. This is where we formulated the idea for sending him back to the US for training. We’re already on with development of the 450cc race bikes, for both MXGP and Supercross/Pro Motocross.
GateDrop: His deal is unique as he signed for the MXGP World Championship in 2026. Is the plan still for the current Triumph GP team to run Mikkel in 2026 along with two MX2 GP riders? Or will another team take it over – I assume Triumph still plan to only run 1 MXGP rider in 2026?
Kimber: It is pretty unique to sign him with a year gap, but with our 450cc programme moving back slightly, we felt it was right to make a commitment to Mikkel. We will only run one MXGP rider in 2026.
GateDrop: In 2027, presumably that is when each class will run two riders and there will be two different teams. Have you started talking to any other teams yet about running the MXGP line up? Tim Mathys would be a great option!
Kimber: The set up for 2027 is still to be defined. It doesn’t have to run out of two separate teams, but I know it is typical. We will develop this moving forwards and make the announcements at the right times.
GateDrop: Just on America and Supercross, Jordon Smith was doing a great job battling for the title until it went wrong with that crash – but you must have been delighted with what he was doing until that moment? Supercross is tough, one mistake and it’s over!
Kimber: The whole team has done an incredible job this year and Jordon’s results have shown how capable the bike is. Obviously getting out first podium in only our second year, was an incredible achievement. Taking a win in the Triple crown was a moment we will never forget and will go down in company history. It is a shame he got injured, but Jordon is focused on coming back strong, and back to challenging at the front. To be honest though that mentality is no different for any of our riders when they are injured, and I know Jalek and Stilez are just as motivated. It’s been a tough year for all manufacturers with injuries this year and goes to show just how hard the sport is.
GateDrop: Smith is the most experienced rider Triumph have in the AMA Supercross paddock – there’s been talk he’ll race the 450cc next year in America. Is this something that is likely to happen?
Kimber: There are so many different considerations when it comes to who will ride in the 450cc class. Right now, we’re focused on the 250cc championship with Jordon.
GateDrop: After a horrific injury, it’s nice to see Austin Forkner just back racing and whilst we know he has the talent for better results – he just needs time, right?
Kimber: Austin’s raw speed and talent are clear to see. All riders recover from injuries in different ways, and actually lining up again after a crash like Austin had in Arlington, is testament to his resilience. I’m sure he will show us all what he is capable of again, it’s just a matter of time.
