The 2026 British Motocross Championship roars into life this weekend at the old-school and iconic Hawkstone Park circuit. The sandy Shropshire venue has long been one of the most demanding tracks in the country and provides the perfect stage to launch what promises to be a fascinating MX1 campaign.
With a deeper field and a few MXGP riders ready to battle at the front it could be tighter than ever. Let’s take a look at some of the key names lining up in the premier class this season.
Conrad Mewse – The Champion to Beat
There’s no better place to start than with the reigning champion, Conrad Mewse. The 2025 season was nothing short of dominant for the British rider, who controlled the championship from start to finish.
However, 2026 may not be quite as straightforward. The level of competition at the front of the field has increased, with a couple of MXGP-level riders entering the mix. Still, Mewse’s speed on British soil is unquestionable. He knows the circuits, thrives in the conditions, and will arrive confident that he can defend his title.
Oriol Oliver – The Dark Horse
Oriol Oliver became a welcome addition to the British Championship paddock last season after joining the SS24 Gabriel KTM team following an unexpected change in circumstances.
The Spaniard impressed with his raw speed and race craft, but 2026 presents a fresh challenge as he moves up into the MX1 class. While he didn’t contest the full series last year—meaning some circuits will still be new to him—he now has a better understanding of the championship.
Oliver remains somewhat underrated, but don’t be surprised to see him fighting for race wins and possibly even the title.
Ben Watson – A Homecoming
One of the biggest talking points heading into the season is the return of Ben Watson to the British Championship.
After competing in the MXGP World Championship with the Factory Beta team, Watson has largely been absent from UK competition in recent years. That changes in 2026 as he lines up with the Dirt Store Triumph squad.
It will be a welcome sight for British fans to see Watson racing on home soil again—and given his pedigree, he could quickly establish himself as a serious contender.
Adam Sterry – Building Momentum
Adam Sterry enjoyed a solid and consistent 2025 campaign. As the series progressed, his pace improved and he gradually closed the gap to Mewse at the front of the field.
Remaining with the Chambers KTM team for 2026 should provide valuable continuity, and he will be aiming to take another step forward this season. If his off-season progress has been strong, race wins could certainly be within reach.
Josh Gilbert – Consistency and Style
Josh Gilbert had an impressive season last year with the Lexa MX team. For 2026 he remains on Honda machinery but has switched to the Apico Honda squad.
Alongside his British Championship commitments, it’s believed Gilbert may also contest selected AMA rounds in the United States this year. Known for his smooth riding style and consistent results, the British rider is rarely far from the front and continues to fly slightly under the radar.
Taylor Hammal – Building on a Strong Rookie Year
There were plenty of unknowns surrounding Taylor Hammal heading into his first MX1 season in 2025. However, the young rider quickly proved he belonged in the class.
Riding for the DRT Kawasaki team, Hammal delivered a series of impressive performances and seemed to make a habit of finishing fourth. With a full season of experience now behind him, he’ll be looking to turn those strong results into podium finishes in 2026.
Bobby Bruce – A New Chapter
2026 marks a fresh start for Bobby Bruce. The British rider has extensive experience racing across Europe in multiple classes and now returns to the 450cc category.
Bruce is launching his own structure this season and will switch from Kawasaki machinery to Honda. Injuries have unfortunately disrupted his career in recent years, so the primary goal will be to stay healthy and show the speed he’s capable of.
Tristan Purdon – Looking for Redemption
Tristan Purdon endured a frustrating 2025 season after an injury forced him to miss much of the campaign.
The South African has since signed with Lexa MX for the upcoming year, which also sees him transition to Honda machinery. Since making the move from South Africa to the UK, Purdon has consistently shown strong pace and determination, and he’ll be eager to get back into the racing rhythm.
Brad Todd – UK and USA Double Duty
Brad Todd will spend much of his season competing in the AMA Pro Motocross Championship in the United States, but he is still expected to line up at most of the British rounds.
Those races will serve as valuable preparation as he builds momentum before heading stateside. Strong performances in the UK could be exactly the confidence boost he needs.
Eddie Wade – Back for the Love of Racing
Another exciting return in 2026 comes from the talented Eddie Wade.
The British rider will line up on the Triumph 450, and after years of chasing results in the intense Grand Prix paddock, it’s refreshing to see him back racing with the main objective of enjoying the sport he loves.
Tanner Ward – A Canadian Challenger
Canadian rider Tanner Ward is set to line up at the opening round and could potentially contest the full series with the SC Sport Homes Husqvarna team.
Ward finished second in the Canadian championship last year and represented his country at the Motocross of Nations. Racing in the UK would provide a new challenge—and fans will certainly hope he sticks around for the full campaign.
Irish Talent Ready to Impress
The MX1 grid will also feature some strong Irish representation. Jason Meara makes a welcome return to racing after health issues forced him to step away last year, while Nathan Green will also line up in the premier class as he looks to gain more experience at the highest level.
With a stacked MX1 field, returning stars, and new challengers entering the mix, the 2026 British Championship promises plenty of excitement. And with Hawkstone Park’s demanding sand circuit hosting the opening round, the stage is perfectly set for the season to begin in spectacular fashion.
