Image: Foremost Media.

MX1 newcomer Brad West will undergo corrective surgery following a difficult start to his 2026 ProMX campaign, with the Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki rider managing ongoing hand issues throughout the opening three rounds.

The Queenslander signed with the Tyson Cherry-led Kawasaki program this season, stepping into the premier class alongside the returning four-time MX1 champion Dean Ferris as part of a significant restructure for the team.

The transition has so far proved challenging, with West currently 15th in the MX1 standings after a season-best 12th place result in Canberra. A difficult Gillman round – which also included motorcycle issues in moto one – ultimately led to the decision to undergo surgery on his hand.

“Not much to say really, it’s been tough so far,” said West after Gillman. “I’ve been struggling with issues in my hand all season. I’ve tried every alternative treatment possible because surgery was the last thing I wanted, but nothing has truly helped, and it’s time to get it under control.

“Moto one was tough from the gate drop with bike problems completely out of anyone’s control. The team worked their asses off to get everything sorted for moto two, and I can’t thank them enough for that.

“But the unfortunate reality is my body hasn’t been allowing me to ride the way I know I can,” he continued. “[It] feels like I’m out there doing roll laps and that’s not fair on myself or the team with how much effort goes into it for every weekend. Hopefully, this is the step that gets me pain-free and back riding how I know I should be.”

West returned to Australia for last year’s Boost Mobile AUSX Supercross series following an extended stint abroad, having previously contested both Monster Energy Supercross and select Pro Motocross rounds in the United States.

He completed the 2025 AUSX season 12th overall in the SX1 standings aboard a privately-run KX450, before signing with Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki for 2026. It remains unclear whether he will line up for round four of ProMX in Toowoomba on May 24.