MXGP of Australia 2026 wildcards announced
The MXGP of Australia presented by Sitzler is shifting into gear for its return to Darwin from 18 to 20 September 2026, with a stellar lineup of international and Australian wildcard riders confirmed, the return of the MA Motocross State Challenge and preparations well underway for another world‑class weekend at Hidden Valley.
A total of 21 wildcard riders across MXGP, MX2 and WMX have been announced, representing elite talent from Australia, Japan and the United States.
The 2026 lineup features rising stars, established national contenders and major international names making their Australian wildcard debut, including 2‑time Japanese motocross champion Souya Nakajima, who is set to contest a full ProMX season in 2026.
Motorcycling Australia CEO Peter Doyle said the depth of talent would make 2026 one of the strongest fields yet.
'It’s tremendously exciting to see so many Australian wildcards on the starting gates,' Doyle said. 'The MA Motocross State Challenge will add to an already brilliant Darwin spectacle and seeing 3 new world champions crowned on Sunday will be icing on the cake.'
Nakajima will line up in the MXGP class alongside returning Australians Jacob Sweet (Victoria) and Cooper Holroyd (New South Wales), while Queenslanders Ryley Fitzpatrick and Rhys Budd will make their MXGP of Australia debuts.
British‑born Dylan Walsh also joins the MXGP wildcard field for his first appearance in Darwin. A former British champion and current ProMX MX2 title contender, Walsh brings valuable FIM Motocross World Championship and Motocross of Nations experience to an already impressive international lineup.
In the WMX category, 10 women have been awarded wildcard entries, including 9 Australians and current American WMX number one, Lachlan 'Lala' Turner, who is contesting the full 2026 Penrite ProMX Championship.
Turner said she was eager to race in Darwin for the first time.
'I’ve heard so many good things about the GP last year and I can’t wait to race it myself,' Turner said. 'It will be the first time I get to line up against the best girls in the world championship — all in one place, on a neutral track.'
Nakajima said competing in Darwin would be a major milestone.
'Racing at Darwin will be another level,' Nakajima said. 'It’s not often Japanese riders get to race a GP, so I plan to make the most of it and represent my country and team well.'
The MA Motocross State Challenge will open the weekend on Friday 18 September, before MXGP, MX2 and WMX riders take over Hidden Valley for the final round of the 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship across Saturday and Sunday.
The purpose‑built 1.6km Hidden Valley motocross circuit will again deliver the high‑speed, high‑intensity racing that earned Darwin the title of best promoted event of the 2025 Championship.
Across 3 days, interstate visitors can enjoy world‑class racing plus the Territory’s iconic waterfalls, national parks, vibrant food and drink scene and unforgettable tropical sunsets.
Fans can secure tickets now, with options including the Holeshot Hotel, 3‑Day Hot Pass, Day Passes and Paddock Pass upgrades. To book, go to the MXGP of Australia website.
You can also check out the full list of MXGP of Australia wildcard entrants.
