Image: Supplied.

Triumph Racing has strengthened its SMX Next program for the 2027 season, signing this year’s Nicky Hayden AMA Horizon Award winner Landon Gibson to its amateur roster.

Gibson has spent the past three seasons with Rockstar Energy Husqvarna, finishing second in the Open and 250 Pro Sport categories at Loretta Lynn’s in 2026, before placing third in the SMX Next World All-Stars Championship.

The 17-year-old now transitions to Triumph, where he will contest each SMX Next round alongside the major amateur national events in 2027. He’s already had his first hit-out with the new team, winning the 250 Pro Sport division at the MotoPlayground Race at Ponca City.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity that I have been given,” commented Gibson. “Thank you to everyone that has put this together for me, it’s time to have fun and do work.”

General manager of Triumph Racing America Jeremy Coker added: “I’m extremely excited to have Landon join our program. Anytime you have the opportunity to bring in a highly talented racer – especially a Horizon Award winner – it’s a great addition to the program.

“Landon has a tremendous amount of potential, and I’m really looking forward to watching him develop and progress through our amateur program and into SMX Next.”

Triumph has secured Aaron Plessinger to lead its premier class line-up on a recently-announced two-year deal, with current 450 rider Jordon Smith expected to join him. It’s also understood that Deacon Denno will be the team’s sole 250 class representative in 2027.