Image: Supplied.

Further evaluations will determine the extent of a hand fracture that sidelined 450SX newcomer Austin Forkner from the fourth round of Monster Energy Supercross in Houston, after the Triumph Factory Racing rider crashed heavily during Friday’s press day.

Forkner mistimed the rhythm section before the finish inside NRG Stadium, rapidly ejecting him toward the final turn. That impact and resulting injuries led to his withdrawal from the weekend.

“Austin crashed on Friday and fractured a bone in his left hand, so he will be evaluated on Monday,” explained Steve Westfall, Triumph Factory Racing team manager. “We will see the extent of the injury at that point.”

The Houston incident continues a challenging premier class debut for the multi-time 250SX race winner, who was drafted into the division for the opening rounds of 2026 as a replacement for injured teammate Jordon Smith.

Forkner recorded 15-17 results aboard the factory TF 450-X at both Anaheim rounds, while crashes ruled him out of San Diego and Houston. It’s unclear whether he will revert to the 250SX East division, with the opening round taking place in Arlington on February 21.