On Sunday, 27 April, 2025, Australian motocross lost one of its most dedicated and beloved riders. Joel Evans, MX1 competitor, privateer hero, and soon-to-be father, tragically passed away following a crash during race two of the ProMX Championship at Gillman, South Australia. He was 30 years old.
Joel wasn’t just another name on the start gate. He was the beating heart of what motocross is truly about: resilience, passion and community. After recovering from a broken back in 2015 that many thought would end his career, Joel returned to racing with the same tenacity and joy that defined his character. He was the privateer who never gave up. In 2020, he made the bold decision to quit his full-time job to go all-in on motocross. That choice, that leap of faith, embodied the privateer spirit – sacrificing comfort, certainty and financial stability to chase the thrill of racing dirtbikes.
Joel became the people’s champion. Whether spinning spanners on his own bikes or filming updates for his YouTube channel, his journey from Privateer to Pro resonated deeply across the paddock. He competed at the highest level, often on limited resources, and still managed top-10 finishes in two of the last three MX1 championships. His career highlight came in 2019, taking third place at a ProMX round in Wonthaggi.
Yet Joel’s impact went far beyond results. He was a warm presence in the pits, a man whose infectious smile, unwavering work ethic and deep love for the sport touched everyone. He was a partner to Michaela, a son, a brother, an uncle and soon, a father to their little boy due in October.
Joel’s story reminds us what motocross is truly about – not the factory trailers or finish line interviews, but the ride, the community, the dream. He lived for it.
Our thoughts are with Michaela, the Evans family and the entire motocross community as we come to terms with this immense loss.
The industry reacts
Michaela – Fiancée
“Our beautiful Joely… a piece of you lives on. The most authentic, loved and kind-hearted soul. He loved and devoted his life to this sport… and rode it out right till the end. He is such a loved partner, uncle, brother, friend and son – but most proudly, a father to our adored little boy who is joining us in October.”
Kyle Blunden, KTM Group Australia Motorsport Manager
“We were reminded – in the most heartbreaking way – of the highs and lows that come with motorsport. Joel was more than just a competitor – he was a true embodiment of the spirit of motocross. His love for the sport was undeniable, his smile was infectious and he had a rare ability to connect with everyone around him.”
Todd Waters, Raceline Husqvarna Tdub Racing Team Owner
“We will deeply miss seeing and lining up alongside Joel Evans at the races. He genuinely had one of the biggest hearts both on and off the bike. It was a privilege and an honour to work with Joel for that final round in Melbourne… his impact is certain to inspire generations to come.”
Yarrive Konsky, Director – Honda Racing Australia
“Joel’s spirit reminded me so much of my own. He lived for the dream… fancy clothes, new cars, none of that mattered to him. What mattered was putting fuel in the tank, getting to the next track and chasing his potential. He embodied what it truly means to be a motocross warrior.”
Yamaha Motor Australia
“Was there a rider who loved racing more than Joel Evans? Nearly every weekend for the past 20 years, you could find Joel riding or racing his dirtbike. From the rice paddies of Asia to the biggest stadiums in Australia, he just wanted to race.”
