Image: Octopi Media.

Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing together with Yamaha Motor USA have formally withdrawn from the 2026 Motocross of Nations (MXoN) selection process, declaring Haiden Deegan and its broader group of 450 and 250 team riders unavailable.

While Deegan is the headline casualty after previously being linked to Team USA, it also rules out the likes of 2022 winner Justin Cooper, who was also being considered for the American line-up.

Beyond the United States effort, it also confirms that in-form Australian Kayden Minear won’t be available for the defending champion team after being in the race for the MX2 seat. It’s understood that Star Racing has implemented a $25,000 per bike lease program for their factory-backed YZs in recent months, which appears inclusive of all off-season races.

Today’s Monster Energy MXoN announcement – distributed through social media by Yamaha Motor USA this morning – is available in full below:

Due to the demanding schedule of the SMX series, and after factoring in the associated travel and support costs, Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing and Yamaha Motor USA have collectively decided to withdraw both its 250 and 450 teams from consideration in participating in the upcoming 2026 MXoN in Ernée, France.⁠
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“After numerous discussions between the team principals and Yamaha management, both Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing and Yamaha Motor USA have collectively made the difficult decision to step back from this year’s MXoN competition,” said Jim Roach, Yamaha Racing Manager. ⁠
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“We’re choosing to prioritize the health and safety of our riders, which includes affording them, and the entire team, a period of time to recover from the 2026 season. When you factor in the logistical challenges and costs of shipping and converting bikes to FIM spec, the team respectfully wants to stay focused on its continued preparation for the upcoming 2027 SMX season.”
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The team expresses its gratitude to the AMA for consideration, and appreciates its fans, partners, and the broader moto community for their understanding and support.