Japanese Motocross champion Taiga Yanase is set to take the biggest step of his career in 2027, as he makes the move to Europe to contest the MX2 World Championship. The Japanese talent has agreed a deal that will see him stay on Honda machinery and will be looking to make his mark on the world stage.
After years of working towards an opportunity to race overseas, Yanase will finally get the chance to test himself against the best riders in the world. Having enjoyed a breakthrough season in Japan, he heads into the new challenge full of motivation, with the aim of continuing his progression and establishing himself in the highly competitive MX2 paddock.
The last Japanese rider to race the MX2 World Championship was Kei Yamaoto back in 2014.
Japanese Champion in 2026
Yanase has enjoyed an impressive 2026 campaign in Japan, finally getting his hands on the IA2 Championship after six seasons competing in the class. Racing for Honda Dream Racing, the Japanese rider delivered when it mattered most to secure the title and cap off a successful year.
Reflecting on what the championship meant to him, Yanase told GateDrop.com:
“I was honestly really happy. This was my sixth season in the IA2 class, and from this year I had the opportunity to race with Honda Dream Racing, which meant there were higher expectations for results than ever before. I’m relieved that I was able to deliver and win the championship in that environment”
Not only did Yanase secure the championship, but he managed to wrap up the title before the final round of the series. That allowed him to approach the last race without the pressure of fighting for the championship, giving him the opportunity to enjoy the occasion.
“Yes, definitely. Being able to race the final round without having to worry about the championship standings has taken a lot of pressure off me”, added Yanase.
A chance to race the MX2 World Championship in 2027
Winning the Japanese IA2 Championship has opened the door to an exciting new chapter, with Yanase now preparing to make the move to Europe and take on the MX2 World Championship.
The opportunity represents the realization of a long-held ambition for the Japanese rider, who has dreamed of racing internationally since he was a child.
“I’ve wanted to race overseas since I was a little kid, and that’s what I’ve been working towards all these years. I’m really grateful to have been given this opportunity, and I’m very happy and excited about it”.
Although Yanase has followed the World Championship from Japan, the 2027 season will also bring a completely new experience away from the track. Having never visited Europe before, he will have plenty to discover as he adapts to life on the other side of the world.
“Yes, I do follow the World Championship, although I mostly watch highlight videos(laughs). No, I’ve actually never been to Europe before so this will be my first time”.
Making the move to Europe
Adapting to European tracks will be one of the biggest challenges facing Yanase as he prepares for his rookie MX2 campaign. However, the 21-year-old Japanese champion believes his experience riding on sand could prove to be an advantage as he takes on some of the toughest circuits on the calendar.
“There isn’t really one particular country I’m most excited about visiting. When I was younger, I used to ride on sandy tracks, so I think sand tracks are one of my strengths compared to other Japanese riders. I’m really looking forward to seeing how well I can ride on proper European sand tracks”.
With preparations for 2027 now on the horizon, Yanase is keen to arrive in Europe as early as possible to give himself the best chance of adapting to his new surroundings and the demands of the MX2 World Championship.
While his arrival date has yet to be confirmed, the Japanese rider already has a clear target for his debut season. He knows there will be plenty to learn, but he is determined to make steady progress and fight for strong results throughout the campaign.
“Nothing is confirmed yet about when I get over to Europe, but I want to get there as early as possible. My goal is to finish in the top 10. I want to give my best in every race and continue to improve throughout the season”.
With a Japanese IA2 title secured and a long-awaited move to Europe confirmed, Yanase now has an exciting opportunity ahead of him. He will be aiming to turn his childhood dream into a successful first season on the MX2 World Championship stage.
