BREAKING NEWS
KEN ROCZEN RETURNS to PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE ECSTAR SUZUKI for 2026 SUPERMOTOCROSS SEASON
Suzuki Motor USA, in collaboration with Pipes Motorsports Group, has officially confirmed that Ken Roczen will remain with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki team for the 2026 SuperMotocross World Championship season. The German superstar will once again line up on the iconic Suzuki RM-Z450, a machine that has carried him to podiums, memorable victories, and a strong resurgence in the sport.
This announcement ends months of speculation surrounding Roczen’s future and signals Suzuki’s continued commitment to competing at the highest levels of Supercross and Motocross. For fans, it means one thing: the 2026 season just got even more exciting.
Roczen’s Legacy and Star Power
Ken Roczen has long been regarded as one of the most talented and inspirational figures in motocross. Known for his fluid style, fearless race craft, and magnetic personality, Roczen has been a fan favorite since his arrival on the U.S. racing scene more than a decade ago. Over the years, he has secured multiple AMA Supercross wins, AMA Motocross titles, and international accolades.
But Roczen’s career has been about more than results—it has been about resilience. He has endured career-threatening injuries, lengthy rehabs, and personal setbacks, only to fight his way back to the front of the pack time and time again. That relentless drive has made him one of the most respected athletes in motorsports.
Heading into 2026, Roczen remains one of the sport’s biggest names and an essential piece of the global motocross story. His re-signing with Suzuki ensures that his fans—and the sport as a whole—will get another year of unforgettable performances.
Building on Momentum from 2025
The decision to extend Roczen’s partnership with Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki is not only sentimental but strategic. In 2025, Roczen delivered one of his strongest seasons in recent memory, proving that his speed and determination remain world-class.
- He briefly held the red plate as the points leader in the Supercross series, reminding rivals and fans alike that he remains a serious contender.
- His victory at the Daytona Supercross—often regarded as the most grueling and prestigious stop on the calendar—was a highlight of the season. The win was a testament to his fitness, mental toughness, and ability to rise to the occasion under immense pressure.
- Roczen consistently ran inside the top five, showing both the bike’s competitiveness and the synergy between rider and team.
With such momentum, 2026 presents an opportunity for Roczen and Suzuki to elevate their game even further.
A Strong Partnership: Suzuki & Roczen
When Roczen signed with Suzuki in late 2022, many questioned whether the RM-Z450 platform could compete with rival manufacturers who had invested heavily in new technology. Roczen, however, silenced critics by making the Suzuki competitive at the very top level.
Three years into the partnership, both sides have benefited:
- Suzuki regained credibility as a race-winning brand in Supercross and Motocross.
- Roczen found a team environment where he could thrive, focusing on performance rather than politics.
- Fans were treated to a revival story that continues to inspire.
Chris Wheeler, Motorsports Manager at Suzuki Motor USA, expressed excitement about the extension:
“Ken is not only a phenomenal rider but also an incredible ambassador for Suzuki worldwide. His commitment, professionalism, and results speak for themselves. We’re thrilled to continue building on what we’ve started and aim for even greater success in 2026.”
Larry Brooks, Team Manager for Pipes Motorsports Group, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing Roczen’s leadership within the team:
“Ken pushes everyone around him to be better—from the mechanics to the crew to his fellow riders. Having him back for another season is huge for us. We believe the RM-Z450 has even more potential, and with Ken at the controls, we’re aiming for wins and a serious run at the championship.”
Roczen’s Outlook on 2026
For Roczen himself, the re-signing signals a chance to keep chasing unfinished business. Though he has achieved nearly everything in motocross, a SuperMotocross World Championship title remains a coveted goal. With his health, confidence, and team in alignment, he’s ready to make another run.
In a statement released by Suzuki, Roczen shared:
“I’m really excited to continue this journey with Suzuki and the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR team. The past few seasons have been full of challenges and great moments, and I feel like we’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible. The RM-Z450 feels like home to me, and I can’t wait to line up in 2026 with a fresh mindset and go after wins from round one.”
That renewed energy could make all the difference. After years of battling injuries, Roczen enters 2026 healthier than he has been in a long time. For his fans, it’s a reason to believe that his best racing may still lie ahead.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Motocross
Roczen’s return to Suzuki also speaks to the evolving landscape of SuperMotocross. With manufacturers like Honda, KTM, Yamaha, and Kawasaki constantly pushing development, the competition is fiercer than ever. Yet Suzuki, often underestimated, continues to punch above its weight with Roczen as its spearhead.
For the sport, Roczen’s involvement is vital. His international fanbase stretches from Europe to the United States, bringing global attention to the series. His presence also boosts attendance, viewership, and sponsorship interest, ensuring that SuperMotocross continues to thrive.
With Roczen re-committed, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive seasons in years. Rivalries with riders like Eli Tomac, Chase Sexton, Jett Lawrence, and Cooper Webb will once again ignite stadiums across the country. Fans can expect fireworks from the very first gate drop.
Looking Ahead
As preparations for the 2026 SuperMotocross season get underway, anticipation is building. Ken Roczen’s decision to stay with Suzuki is more than a contract extension—it’s a statement of intent. He’s not just here to race; he’s here to win.
For Roczen, for Suzuki, and for motocross fans worldwide, the stage is set. Daytona proved he still has what it takes. Now, the question is: can he carry that form across an entire season and write another chapter in his legendary career?
If history has taught us anything, it’s this—never count out Ken Roczen.
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