Jason Anderson on his Anaheim 1 podium

Image: Kawasaki USA | Words: Press Release

Monster Energy® Kawasaki riders Jason Anderson and Jorge Prado kicked off the 2025 Monster Energy AMA Supercross season with strong performances, securing third and 14th place finishes after both riders ran up front during 450SX Main Event at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California.

After a rigorous offseason of testing, KX™450SR riders Anderson and Prado began their day with solid qualifying performances, securing fourth and 11th place, respectively. When the gate dropped for the 450SX Heat 1, Anderson and his No. 21 Kawasaki entered the first turn in fourth. With calculated line choices, Anderson made quick passes and finished the heat in second place. In 450SX Heat 2, Prado made his racing debut with Monster Energy Kawasaki on the No. 70 KX450SR. The World Champion started just outside the Top 5 but soon found his rhythm, picking off competitors one by one to finish second, meaning both Kawasaki riders would have premium gate pick for the main event.

As the gate dropped to start the 2025 season, the two Monster Energy Kawasaki riders put the power to the ground, with Prado grabbing the holeshot and Anderson banging bars with his competitors, but rounding the first turn in sixth. The 2018 Supercross champion quickly made his way past his teammate in the whoops to take the lead. As the race unfolded, Prado dropped to fourth, and a mid-race crash in the whoops forced him to remount in 15th, ultimately finishing 14th. Anderson battled with his title contenders, but a couple small mistakes dropped him third. He remained consistent, latching on to the leaders pace and secured a well-earned podium finish in third place.

Jason Anderson: 

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“We have done a lot of testing in the offseason and it was awesome to see it all pay off by starting the year off with a podium. Finishing second in the heat race gave me the confidence for the main event. Off the start, I got very sideways and was leaning on everyone, but was able to muscle my way to the front pack. Battling with my Monster Energy Kawasaki teammate up front in the first few laps was incredible, but I was able to make the pass lead some laps. Overall it was a great opening night for the 2025 season and I am excited to line up next weekend in San Diego.”

Jorge Prado: 

“Anaheim 1 is done and there are so many positives to take from the night. I placed second in my heat race, grabbed a holeshot in the main event and even led some laps. This shows that I mean business and I can fight for the top spot any night. I cannot ask for more in my first race with the Monster Energy Kawasaki team and they worked so hard to put me in a position to battle up front. I am looking forward to getting redemption next weekend in San Diego.”