Image: Align Media.

Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing recruit Kayden Minear will debut in the professional ranks of AMA Pro Motocross in Colorado this weekend, the Western Australian teenager to contest select rounds after going 1-1 in SMX Next at Hangtown.

Minear – who finished runner-up in the Australian MX2 Championship last season – was signed to an amateur contract with Star Racing in 2025, but will now get his opportunity in 250MX for ‘a few outdoor rounds before Loretta Lynn’s.’

“I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to make my pro debut this weekend at Thunder Valley,” the 18-year-old commented. “I’ve been putting in a lot of work with the team to get up to speed and I’m confident that I can go compete with the pros and get the results we’re looking for.”

Minear will join defending champion Haiden Deegan, Michael Mosiman and Nate Thrasher at Thunder Valley, with Cole Davies, Max Anstie, Pierce Brown, Daxton Bennick all currently sidelined through injury. Jeremy Martin’s three-race cameo will resume in his home round at the Spring Creek National next month.