It has been a tough couple of years for Håkon Østerhagen mainly due to injuries. This year was shaping up to be an exciting season for the young Norwegian as he inked a deal with the JM Honda team to contest the MX2 World Championship – his rookie season in the class.
Østerhagen was in fine form at Hawkstone International running with the reigning MX2 World Champion, Andrea Adamo. Unfortunately after seven rounds of the series, he picked up a neck injury which ruled him out for the rest of the season.
One thing that is clear is that Østerhagen won’t continue with the JM Honda team. They have signed up David Braceras for the 2025 season to take on the MX2 World Championship. It has left Østerhagen to search for another ride to try and remain in the GP paddock.
Around a month ago, the talented Norwegian wasn’t sure what the future held for him as he told us in an interview he had no offers at that time.
“Sadly no, but I mean I kind of understand when you don’t perform, I have tried reaching out but the teams are mostly full or they are speaking with someone. It would be good to stay in MX2 but as of now I will take what I get”, Østerhagen told us.
We understand that since then, Swedish based team, JWR Honda have offered him a deal which he will take for the 2025 season. The deal will see him drop down and contest the competitive EMX250 championship but a rebuilding year could be exactly what he needs. The deal will also see him remain on Honda machinery.
It wasn’t that long ago Østerhagen was at the very front of the EMX125 championship looking to have a great future but injuries have been the problem. Fingers crossed he can remain injury free in 2025 and remind everyone of his talent.
There’s no doubt that if he can stay injury free, build some momentum that he should be at the sharp end of the EMX250 class which would help him open up some doors for the future.