Håkon Østerhagen’s future has now been confirmed, with the talented Norwegian set to take on a new challenge for the 2026 season stepping up to race a 450cc machine.
Østerhagen signed with AIT Fantic Racing for 2025 to compete in the EMX250 series and, despite showing flashes of his potential, the partnership ended earlier than expected. However, he still managed to represent Norway at the Motocross of Nations in Ironman, where he raced a 450cc.
For 2026, Østerhagen has inked a deal with Husqvarna Scandinavia. Rather than pursuing a full-time world championship campaign, the strategy is to reset, regroup and build momentum closer to home. He will race the MX1 Swedish Championship and also line up for selected events in Norway.
Importantly, the door to the world stage isn’t fully closed. There remains the possibility that Østerhagen could make wildcard appearances in the MXGP World Championship across the season – valuable opportunities to measure himself against the very best while continuing his development.
After a turbulent period, the move to Husqvarna Scandinavia offers Østerhagen stability, track time, and the chance to rebuild with less pressure – while still keeping one eye firmly on the top level of the sport.
Håkon Østerhagen:
“The plan is to keep things simple in 2026. I am going to do the full Swedish championship and some racing in Norway. If the money is good maybe I will do some MXGP rounds too but we will see”.
“The 450cc is a power rocket for sure but I really enjoy it. I want my riding style to be smooth and as easy as possible. I feel like I get more of that on the 450cc. Of course, it’s going to take some time to get used to the power, but I’ll manage it”.
