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Monster Energy Kawasaki has confirmed Malcolm Stewart will join Garrett Marchbanks for the 2027 Monster Energy SMX World Championship, finalizing its factory roster and making Stewart’s signing official.

The news comes after Chase Sexton and Kawasaki mutually agreed to part ways, ending their partnership one season into a three-year deal. Instead, Stewart now joins the returning Marchbanks aboard the new 2027 KX450F-SR.

Stewart’s move reconnects him with the manufacturer he represented during his amateur career through Kawasaki Team Green. His credentials include a maiden 450SX victory and King of Paris Supercross crown in 2025, followed by one podium and 14 top-10 SMX finishes this season.

“I’m very excited to be joining Monster Energy Kawasaki for 2027,” Stewart said. “I started my racing career on a Kawasaki as an amateur, so coming back to the brand feels like I’m returning to my roots.

“It’s a full-circle moment to have started my career with Kawasaki and now have the opportunity to return to where it all began. I’m looking forward to working with the team, getting on the KX450F-SR, and starting this new chapter.”

Marchbanks earned a contract extension after securing 2026 450SX Rookie of the Year honours. He also recorded career-best fourth-place Pro Motocross finishes at Thunder Valley and Unadilla, before finishing sixth in the SMX World Championship standings.

“We have a strong line-up in place for 2027, with Garrett returning for his second year on the team and adding Malcolm to the program,” explained team manager Dan Fahie. “Garrett showed strong progression aboard the KX450SR this past year, and we look forward to building on that foundation.

“Malcolm brings proven experience and a strong work ethic to the team, making him a great addition to the program. Both riders have the talent and skill to compete at the front of the 450 Class, and we look forward to seeing what each of them can accomplish this upcoming year.”