KTM Launches High-Profile 2026 SMX World Championship Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Roster

Red Bull KTM unveils its 2026 SMX team with Eli Tomac, Jorge Prado, Aaron Plessinger, and Julien Beaumer ready for a new championship season.

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A reenergized Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team has officially launched its 2026 SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) lineup at RD Field, the testing grounds of KTM North America, Inc. The event unveiled a dynamic rider roster, combining returning stars Aaron Plessinger and Julien Beaumer with newcomers Eli Tomac and Jorge Prado.

Plessinger (#7), Tomac (#3), and Prado (#26) will compete aboard the new KTM 450 SX-F FACTORY EDITION in the 450 Class. Meanwhile, Beaumer (#13) will race the KTM 250 SX-F FACTORY EDITION in the 250 Class. Both motorcycles were also officially presented to the media during the team launch.

Plessinger Extends His KTM Journey

Confirmed earlier this year, fan favorite Aaron Plessinger, 29, will continue with Red Bull KTM through 2026. Entering his fifth straight season with the team, the Ohio native is eager to build on his strong results. Plessinger earned five podiums in 450SX this year, including a career-highlight Main Event win in Foxborough. Known for his energy and determination, “The Cowboy” remains a major contender in the SMX Championship.

Tomac Joins KTM for a Historic New Chapter

Motocross legend Eli Tomac, 32, joins Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for 2026. One of the sport’s most decorated riders, Tomac brings four 450MX titles and two 450SX championships to the team. The Colorado native is second on the all-time Supercross premier class wins list (53) and fourth outdoors (32). Despite an injury earlier this season, he rebounded to finish third overall in both 450MX and 450SMX. Interestingly, Tomac’s racing journey began with KTM—he was a graduate of the KTM Junior Supercross program in 2001.

Prado Returns to the KTM Family

Making his return to KTM, Jorge Prado adds another world-class name to the roster. The four-time FIM Motocross World Champion (MXGP 2023–2024, MX2 2018–2019) aims to expand his legacy in the U.S. After debuting in Supercross in 2024 with four 450SX starts and a best finish of P7, the 24-year-old Spaniard is eager to build momentum with Red Bull KTM in 2026.

Beaumer Leads the 250 Class Program

In the 250 division, Julien Beaumer continues as Red Bull KTM’s lead rider. The 19-year-old from Arizona has impressed since his debut, earning the AMA 250SX Rookie of the Year title in 2024. This year, he claimed his first Supercross victory in San Diego and secured second place in the 250SX West standings before injury sidelined him during the SMX postseason. Beaumer remains focused on recovery and is expected to return at full strength for the Pro Motocross season.

Ian Harrison: Confidence in a Balanced Team

Ian Harrison, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager, expressed confidence in the team’s 2026 prospects: “We’re excited to continue working with Aaron and Julien while welcoming Eli and Jorge to the team. Aaron had a strong start this year, and we know he’s eager to get back to top form. Eli brings unmatched experience and maturity, which will benefit everyone in the team. Jorge’s return is special—he’s part of the KTM family and already familiar with our culture. Julien is recovering well, and we look forward to seeing him back on the track. The team chemistry is great, and we’re motivated to start strong at Anaheim 1.”

The 2026 SMX World Championship begins January 10, 2026, with Supercross at Anaheim 1. The Pro Motocross series kicks off on May 30 at Fox Raceway in Pala, California, featuring 11 rounds. Finally, the three-round SMX Playoffs and Final will conclude the season in September. With a mix of proven champions and rising stars, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing is set to make a bold statement in 2026, uniting experience, youth, and passion in pursuit of global victory.