Image: Supplied.

Kawasaki Racing Team has signed Francisco Garcia in an expanded two-rider line-up for the 2027 MX2 World Championship, graduating from Bud Racing in EMX250.

The 18-year-old currently leads the European championship, set to team up with French standout Mathis Valin onboard the factory KX250F-SR next season.

“For sure, it’s a dream to move to the world championship with the Kawasaki Racing Team,” Garcia said. “I am so happy to have this opportunity. Of course, I am very motivated for next season, as I have been already this year.

“I know the factory bike has a huge potential as Mathis has shown already. I’m happy to join him as we often practice together with our trainer Thierry Van Den Bosch. The main goal at the moment is to secure the European title to end this chapter of my career with Bud Racing on a high before joining KRT.”

KRT team manager Antti Pyrhonen added: “We have enjoyed a strong two years in the MX2 category with Kawasaki, and we want to push even more in the future. We are happy to welcome another young talent into the team with EMX250 leader Francisco Garcia – it makes a clear statement regarding what we want to achieve in the future.

“We need to thank Bud Racing for the great cooperation we enjoy together. Mathis learnt a lot with Bud, and the same goes for Francisco, who is thus already prepared for his move to the next level with the factory team. I am confident that both Mathis and Francisco will help us to reach our goals in this category!”

Garcia has won five of the first eight races to date in the 2026 EMX250 season and holds a commanding lead in the standings. He also made a strong MX2 GP debut as wildcard at the French GP with a top-10 result overall.