Hunter Lawrence Claims 2026 AMA Pro Motocross 450 Title

Hunter Lawrence of Honda HRC Progressive has secured his first premier-class motocross championship, winning the 2026 AMA Pro Motocross 450 title. The Australian rider clinched the championship by a narrow two-point margin over his younger brother and teammate, Jett Lawrence, at the season finale held at Ironman Raceway on August 31, 2026.

This victory marks a historic moment in motocross, as it is the first time two brothers have each won a premier-class motocross championship. Hunter Lawrence’s season was characterized by resilience, a trait evident in the final race where he overcame an early crash to secure crucial points.

Hunter Lawrence Secures 450 Championship

The championship battle culminated in a dramatic showdown at Ironman Raceway. In Moto 1, Hunter Lawrence experienced a crash after another rider fell, forcing him to remount in last position. Demonstrating significant determination, he steadily advanced through the field, eventually passing Jett Lawrence midway through the moto and finishing eighth to keep his title hopes alive.

Jett Lawrence faced his own challenges in Moto 1, starting outside the top 20 and aggravating an existing foot injury, ultimately finishing 11th. With the championship still undecided, both brothers lined up for the final moto. Hunter and Jett started second and third, respectively, with Hunter maintaining position behind Jett through the checkered flag to secure the overall championship by just two points, 474 to 472.

Honda Dominates with Team and Manufacturer Awards

Honda's success extended beyond the individual rider championships. The manufacturer capped off its season by earning the prestigious Manufacturers Championship. The Honda HRC Progressive team also received several top honors in the premier class, including Team of the Year.

Individual accolades were also awarded within the Honda HRC Progressive camp. Team Manager Lars Lindstrom was recognized as the Manager of the Year, while Hunter Lawrence's tuner, Cameron Camera, received the Mechanic of the Year award. These awards highlight the collective effort behind Honda's successful 2026 season.

Strong Finishes in 250 and WMX Classes

In the 250 class, Chance Hymas closed out his season with strong performances, earning a 1-2 moto tally for second overall at Ironman Raceway. He finished fourth in the championship standings, tied on points for third with Levi Kitchen and Julien Beaumer, but was placed fourth based on season tiebreaker rules. Hymas's season included five podium finishes, three moto victories, and an overall win, and he was also selected to represent Team USA at the 2026 Motocross of Nations.

The Women's Motocross Championship (WMX) also saw strong Honda representation. Quad Lock Honda's Charli Cannon dominated the final round, sweeping both motos and closing the championship gap to six points, ultimately finishing runner-up to Lachlan Turner. SLR Honda's Mikayla Nielsen also secured a podium finish in the WMX championship, placing third overall.

The 2026 AMA Pro Motocross season concludes with Honda celebrating multiple championships and individual awards, setting the stage for the upcoming SMX Playoffs.