Image: Supplied.

Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing graduate Kay de Wolf believes he can be ‘ready to fight from the first gate drop’ as the former MX2 champion begins the next chapter of his career in the MXGP class during 2026.

The Dutch rider had a standout MX2 career with 15 GP victories, 28 race wins, 40 podium finishes, and the 2024 world title – now set to take on a new challenge in the premier class.

“I’m really excited to be stepping into MXGP with Nestaan Husqvarna Factory Racing and I feel ready for this challenge,” said de Wolf. “The last few seasons in MX2 gave me everything I needed in terms of experience, confidence, and speed, and the winter preparation has gone incredibly well.

“I know the level in MXGP is high, but I believe I belong at the front and I’m ready to fight from the first gate drop. The goal is to keep building, but also to push for strong results straight away.”

The step up to MXGP comes as Nestaan Husqvarna enters a new era, retaining its established name while unveiling a bold new livery as Red Bull joins the program as a primary partner, adding further support and profile to the factory effort.

Nestaan Husqvarna team manager Rasmus Jorgensen added: “We’re heading into 2026 with a lot of confidence and excitement around this team. Bringing Red Bull onboard marks an important new chapter for us, and pairing that with Kay stepping up to MXGP and Liam coming back fully fit gives us an incredibly strong line-up.

“Kay has proven he has championship-winning speed and the mentality to succeed at the highest level, and we truly believe he’s ready to fight at the front of MXGP.”