Brazil is now in the rear-view mirror for Stephen Rubini after announcing he has parted ways with Honda Brazil after winning the title. Rubini is expected to announce his plans for the 2026 season soon, and it appears the French rider is gearing up for his very first full season racing the AMA championships.
After stepping away from the World Championship at the end of the 2023 season, Rubini headed to Brazil to join the official Honda Brazil team. Vice-champion in the premier Motocross class in 2024 and champion in 2025, the French rider announced his departure from the structure managed by Reinaldo Almeida just a few days ago. He is now expected to race in America next year.
A three-time French champion, two-time European vice-champion, and MX2 World Championship podium finisher before cutting short his move to MXGP, the Frenchman – who will turn 27 in January – is set to answer the call of US Supercross, the AMA Pro Motocross Outdoor series, and the SMX Championship next season.
According to our information, Rubini will sign a deal with the Rock River Yamaha team for next season, making his debut in 450SX before lining up for the 450cc AMA Pro Motocross series and the SMX 450 championship.
That would give Rubini four weeks to refine his Supercross preparation before taking on the best in America. He would join Dylan Ferrandis, who was the only French rider competing in the premier class this year. Without any plans in 2023 after parting ways with Honda SR Motoblouz at the end of the Elite season, Ferrandis tried his luck in the 450 AMA Pro Motocross series on a KX-F 450 with support from Bud Racing, gaining his first experience in the AMA championships. He finished 21st at Unadilla, 14th at Budds Creek, and 18th at Ironman.
Rock River Yamaha have yet to officially announce its 2026 roster, but the team is expected to line up two European riders next year, as Valentin Guillod and Stephen Rubini are both rumoured to be joining the American squad. The Swiss rider is expected to race 250SX East before stepping up to the 450 class for the Outdoors and SMX. Stephen Rubini, meanwhile, is set for a full 450cc program in 2026.
We’ll bring you the news when it is officially confirmed.
