Australian champion Ryder Kingsford to compete in Australian MX and AUS X championships as Honda aims to continue its 250-class dominance
Factory Honda has confirmed the signing of Ryder Kingsford, with the rider and team agreeing late last year to compete together across the 2026 Australian Motocross Championship, Australian Supercross Championship, and selected international events.
Factory Honda Team Director Yarrive Konsky expressed his enthusiasm for securing Kingsford early.
“We signed Ryder before he claimed his Australian Championship. We’ve raced against him for several years and know exactly what he’s capable of. His work ethic, talent, and drive are things we believe in with absolute conviction,” said Konsky.
“I was highly motivated to sign him and worked hard to make it happen. We want people in our program who share that level of hunger and commitment.”
Plans were unfortunately disrupted following Kingsford’s Australian Supercross Championship victory, when an injury sidelined him and forced a pause on both his and the team’s international ambitions. While disappointing, both Ryder and the team remain focused on the long-term picture.
“It happens,” said Kingsford. “I was excited about the opportunity to race overseas, but I know there will be more chances. Right now, my focus is on the Australian Motocross Championship. I was lucky enough to ride the bike before I got injured, and I know what it’s capable of. I won’t be at 100 per cent for round one, but it’s a long championship and consistency is what really matters.”
Kingsford acknowledged the team’s recent dominance in the 250 class, with Honda having secured the past five Australian 250 Motocross Championships.
“The team is proven, the bike is proven,” Kingsford added. “My job is to get back to full fitness and strength. I know the team can build what I need to do the job.”
For the 2026 Australian Motocross Championship, Ryder Kingsford will line up alongside his brother Kayd Kingsford and Alex Larwood as part of Honda’s 250 Factory program.
