Just days away from the United States defending its homeland during the 2025 FIM Motocross of Nations on Oct. 3-5 in Crawfordsville, Ind., the American Motorcyclist Association announced that Justin Cooper will officially join Team USA.
Due to injury, Haiden Deegan is no longer able to compete for the United States, and Cooper will join Eli Tomac and R.J. Hampshire on the team, which is managed by AMA Director of Racing Mike Pelletier.
“We’d like to offer our deepest gratitude to Justin Cooper for his ongoing and unwavering commitment to supporting Team USA” Pelletier said. “Cooper has continued to train to be prepared at a moment’s notice, and now he has answered the call to compete for his country. Cooper is excited to represent the United States once again on home soil.”
Cooper will ride in the MX2 Class while Tomac will race in the MXGP class and Hampshire will seek victory in the Open Class.
The United States seeks its 24th Motocross of Nations title in 2025, having previously won the global competition in 2022 — the last time the Americans hosted the event.
Wil Hahn – Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing 250 Team Manager
“The team is proud to represent the U.S. on home soil at this year’s Motocross of Nations. Haiden was doing everything he could to be back from injury and represent his country, but unfortunately, after riding today, he’s just not quite there yet to ride at his level. Justin’s been working hard, and we all thank him for changing his plans and being ready to fill in on short notice. We’re looking forward to the weekend.”
Justin Cooper – Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing
“I’m really excited to get the call and line up for Team USA this weekend at Ironman! It’s a bummer to see the injuries to both Haiden and Chase (Sexton) these past few weeks, but I’ve done my best to stay ready for this exact scenario. I only have a few days riding on the YZ250F, but I feel really good and was able to get back up to speed quickly. The MXoN has always been an event that I take a lot of pride in, so I can’t wait to get back out there with Eli and RJ and make America proud!”
Haiden Deegan – Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing
“At this point, I have done everything in my power to race this weekend. I rode today for the first time after my surgery to prepare for MXON. After riding today and discussing with the team, it became clear that I couldn’t sustain my speeds at a winning level. The team has decided the best option is for me to fully recover and have Justin Cooper fill my spot. I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to representing the USA in the future when I’m healthy.”
