Image: Octopi Media.

Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s Julien Beaumer has undergone immediate surgery on a fractured L3 vertebra in his spine after crashing out of SMX Playoff 1 qualifying in Charlotte.

Beaumer had posted the 11th quickest time in the opening 250SMX qualifying session, but a crash ended his day – and likely his 2025 season – altogether.

“An incident in the second timed session ended his weekend early,” the team’s post-race report announced. “The 19-year-old was transported to hospital, where it was confirmed that he sustained a burst fracture of his L3 vertebra and has since undergone surgery to stabilize the injury.”

Beaumer had recently crashed out of the final round of Pro Motocross and had been sidelined until receiving a late clearance for SMX, but this newfound injury will result in an extended stint on the sidelines. He is contracted to KTM through the 2026 season.