Image: Supplied.

A late opportunity with Monster Energy Kawasaki will see Garrett Marchbanks in position to prove his capabilities in the premier class next season, teamed with Chase Sexton for the 2026 SMX World Championship onboard the factory KX450SR.

After months of speculation surrounding the second seat alongside new recruit Sexton for next season, 24-year-old Marchbanks was drafted in to replace Jorge Prado.

As part of the Mitch Payton-led Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki team this year, Marchbanks finished P5 in 250SX West and third in 250MX, before claiming eighth overall in the SMX Finals series.

It was initially anticipated that the Utah native would remain at Pro Circuit for another term, before Kawasaki and Prado’s separation was formalized and instead saw Marchbanks promoted into the factory operation full-time.

“I’m super-pumped to be moving up to the 450 class full-time with Monster Energy Kawasaki,” Marchbanks commented. “This is an incredible opportunity and I’m honored that they see the potential in me to move up. I’m looking forward to the new challenge and showing everyone what I am capable of.

“I’ve been wanting to show my skills on a 450 and I can’t picture a better team to do it with. Kawasaki has always been family for me since mini bikes, and I’m glad I get to continue my career with such an amazing crew.”

Marchbanks spent a partial season in the premier class with ClubMX during 2023, finishing sixth in the Pro Motocross 450MX standings, and then backing that form up with seventh in the inaugural 450SMX championship.

Both Marchbanks and Sexton will debut with Monster Energy Kawasaki at the season-opening round of the 2026 Monster Energy Supercross Championship at Anaheim 1 in January, as the team enters the new year with an all-new roster.