Image: Supplied.

A premier class seat with Monster Energy Kawasaki remains the target for Levi Kitchen, with the 250SX contender aiming for a title in 2026 as part of his pathway toward a future promotion with the factory 450 team.

The 24-year-old has come close over the past two seasons, falling five points short of RJ Hampshire (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing) in the 2024 250SX West series, before crashing out of last year’s 250SX East series while second in points.

Currently part of the Monster Energy Pro Circuit Kawasaki roster, Kitchen indicated that a potential move to the 450 class has been discussed with the senior team, however, the move remains largely contingent on securing a 250 championship.

“My goal for the last four years has been to win a championship,” commented Kitchen. “I’ve been told a couple of years in a row now that if I win, I will move up, and although it looked likely a couple of times, it just hasn’t worked out.

“I feel like if I win the championship this year, I’ll fill a spot hopefully, and if I don’t, then maybe somewhere else will be available. I always have that conversation with Kawasaki though, letting them know that I do want a future there – so hopefully I can earn that spot.”

Kitchen is expected to contest the 250SX West series this season, with Anaheim 1 set to open the Monster Energy SMX World Championship for 2026.

Monster Energy Kawasaki is in its first of a three-year contract with Chase Sexton, while fellow new recruit Garrett Marchbanks – a late replacement for Jorge Prado following his exit – is on a single-year deal that could be extended based upon performance into next year.