Danish talent Magnus Smith has just completed his first season racing the MX2 World Championship, and the year proved to be a steep but rewarding learning curve. Stepping up from EMX250 to the MX2 World Championship is never easy, but Smith embraced every challenge that came his way.
Looking back on 2025, Smith says he takes plenty of positives from the campaign. The season brought its share of highs and lows, but importantly, he felt progression round by round.
“I definitely learned a lot, and I got better and better throughout the season. There were ups and downs, but a lot of fun too and plenty of experience”, Smith told GateDrop.com.
The jump in level from EMX250 to MX2 was noticeable straight away. Smith quickly discovered how deep the field is, with the top 15 riders almost exclusively on full factory machinery. Add to that a more demanding format with significantly more bike time, and it took a few rounds before he found his rhythm.
“The format took me a few races to adapt to. It’s tougher with so much more time on the bike.”
A memorable part of Smith’s rookie season was lining up with KL KTM, the first-ever Danish team in the MXGP paddock. Riding for a squad from his home country added a special feeling to the year.
“It was a pleasure to be part of it. Being the first Danish team in the GP paddock meant a lot.”
KL KTM have decided to take a break – for at least one year – from the paddock, which has left Smith assessing his options for 2026. Conversations are ongoing, but nothing is signed. With one more eligible year remaining in MX2, Smith’s ideal scenario is clear: he wants another shot at the class to show his true potential.
“I’ve been speaking to a few people, but haven’t got the finished offers yet. It’s a bit uncertain what’s going to happen. I would for sure prefer one last year in MX2 to hopefully show what I’m capable of.”
That said, he isn’t ruling out alternatives. Smith has already spent time on a 450cc machine, particularly in the lead-up to the Motocross of Nations, and enjoyed the feel of the bigger bike.
“I really like riding the 450cc, and I’m confident on it, so yes, I’m open to racing in the MXGP class.. It’s difficult (to find a ride). There are so many strong riders, so finding an open spot is not easy.”
If a Grand Prix deal doesn’t materialise, he would consider focusing on domestic championships, though he hopes to combine them with at least some GP appearances.
“If that’s my only option, yes. But I’d rather do a few GPs alongside a full domestic championship. I’d like to race some GPs at least.”
One of the major influences in Smith’s season was former MX2 vice-world champion Thomas Kjer Olsen. Having Olsen in his corner proved invaluable both on and off the track.
“Me and Thomas came along very well. I mean he’s the best Danish rider we ever had and I really like to work with him. He helped me get my starts dialled in pretty good and a bunch of other things. He’s pretty straightforward – if you do bad, he’ll tell you what to improve, and if you do good, he’ll let you know. He’s just a nice guy to be around.”
Smith’s season ended on a high note with the chance to represent Denmark at the Motocross of Nations in America – a moment he won’t forget.
“It was incredible. It didn’t end how I wanted, but that’s how it is sometimes. I still had a sick time and rode really well.”
With valuable experience behind him and his future still open, Magnus Smith heads into the off-season motivated and eager for the right opportunity. Wherever he lines up in 2026, the young Dane has made it clear he isn’t done progressing yet.
