What a change a year makes in Des Nations selection. Last year with the race on home soil the Americans fielded a powerhouse Team. Everyone wanted to be a part of event and it was the best chance of America breaking there losing slump going way back to 2011.
There is no doubt, the Nations needs a strong US Team. They bring the rockstar element to the event with a chance for European fans to see big stars like Eli Tomac and current SX champion Chase Sexton up close. This is also the only time of the year where the American racers get to face off with the top MXGP riders giving us fans a small opportunity to bench race as to whos the fastest man on the planet.
But 2022 is a thing of the past and all is not good in the Team USA camp. Its now the 3rd of September and the American Team is still undecided. The current world champions are in an uphill struggle, the clocks ticking as Roger Decoster tries to find a half decent team to field.
So whats Decosters options?
On the 250 side:
Justin Cooper was keen and willing to go and even arranged his wedding for the week following the nations. But in a hugely unfortunate turn of events the nations got pushed back a week following the introduction of the American SMX championship. Ruling out the New York native.
Then we have the super talented rookie Haiden Deegan. When Deegan got outright patriotic on the 250 podium at Red Bud most American fans believed there number 1 250 rider would proudly accept the call to represent the stars and stripes. Much to the disappointment of the die hard American fans it appears Haiden has turned the offer down to focus on another event instead. Can Decoster convince Haiden to change his mind? Time will tell.
Who does this leave for the 250 then? There have been rumours of Hampshire or even bam bam barcia dropping down. Now were also hearing rumours that Mitch Payton’s Seth Hammaker could get a call or even Max Vohland, who is now being heavily tipped to be on the team, which makes sense logistically with Red Bull KTM and Roger DeCoster.
On the 450 side things appear to be just as much of a headache for Decoster.
The number 1 rider chase Sexton will move from Honda to KTM following the SMX final in LA. That wouldnt give him sufficient time to test the KTM & get it setup. Rumours are he is keen to ride, could he go on a honda or is he out?
The only good news for now is that the cowboy Aaron Plessenger is fit, willing and able to go. He appears to be locked in.
But who will be his 450 team mate? Will RJ Hampshire step up? Or will they call in Copper webb who posted on social that he was waiting for a call. Was he serious or just trolling us?
All we know for certain is that with only 5 weeks to go Team USA is in a pickle!
Who do you think will be on the team? Give us your thoughts below.
Article: Stephen Megarry