The 2026 Darwin MXGP of Australia entry list is now finalised, confirming a powerhouse line‑up of returning world‑class athletes for the final round of the FIM Motocross World Championship at Hidden Valley.
Fans will be immersed in high‑octane action across three days as some of the biggest names in global motocross go head‑to‑head. The MXGP category features an exceptional field, including two‑time MXGP Champion and reigning World Champion Romain Febvre (FRA), a four‑time winner at the FIM Motocross of Nations, alongside Jeffrey Herlings (NED), widely regarded as the greatest racer of all time with five world titles, and four‑time MXGP World Champion Tim Gajser (SLO).
The MX2 class brings its own elite talent. Darwin debut round champion Sacha Coenen (BEL) returns, while last year's Darwin podium placegetters Kay de Wolf (NED) and Simon Längenfelder (GER) are back, this time stepping up into the MXGP field after progressing to the premier class. Current MX2 championship leaders Farres Guillem (ESP) and Camden Mc Lellan (RSA) are also locked in to compete.
The adrenaline‑charged weekend will again feature a round of the Women's Motocross World Championship (WMX) with the world championship once again to be decided in Darwin. Fans will witness the raw talent of two‑time and reigning champion Lotte van Drunen (NED), current world championship leader Daniela Guillén (ESP) and six‑time world champion Kiara Fontanesi (ITA) as they battle for the final points of the season.
The MXGP of Australia delivers a comprehensive program designed for racing fans, teams and riders:
Friday, 18 September - National support classes take centre stage, with all three MX85 races (15 minutes + 1 lap) and MX3 races (20 minutes + 1 lap).Saturday, 19 September - A packed day of Free Practice and Qualifying for WMX, MX2 and MXGP, plus the first WMX race and the final races of the State Challenge MX85 (8:10am) and MX3 (8:50am), will keep fans trackside from early morning through to the afternoon.Sunday, 20 September - The final race day for the 2026 the FIM World Championship races. Warm‑ups lead into the championship decider for the 2026 WMX World Champion, followed by two intense GPs for MX2 and MXGP. MX2 Race 2 runs at 3:10pm and MXGP Race 2 at 4:10pm, before the 2026 world champions are officially crowned.
Darwin is the 19th and final round for MXGP and MX2, and the 5th and final round for WMX - culminating a 17‑week, five‑country journey for the women's series. With championship points still in play, making this one of the most significant motorsport weekends on the global calendar.
Beyond the international battles, the event also shines a spotlight on Australia's motocross future. Selected Australian riders will receive wildcard entries into MXGP, MX2 and WMX, offering a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity to compete against the world's best.
Fans can now secure their place at one of Australia's biggest motorsport events, with a range of ticket options available. The Holeshot Hotel offers a relaxed, Territory‑style premium experience, with Friday access from $275. A special Father's Day 2‑for‑1 ticket offer is available for general admission, including the 3‑Day Hot Pass. Kids under 12 enjoy free entry with a paying adult. For race entry details and to purchase tickets, visit: mxgpaustralia.com.au. here
Quotes from Tourism and Events NT Executive Director of Events, Aimee Luxton:
"The MXGP of Australia continues to strengthen the Territory's position as a world‑class events destination, and we are proud to welcome back the line‑up of international stars to Darwin in 2026. Their return highlights the confidence global sporting organisations have in the Territory and the capability of our people, facilities and partners to deliver major events at the highest standard.
"This event brings thousands of visitors, supports local jobs and delivers significant economic benefits for businesses across the Top End. We encourage Territorians and visitors to get trackside and experience the excitement of world‑championship motocross right here in Darwin."
Quote attributed to Australia wildcard rider, Rhys Budd
"It's unreal to be lining up for my first MXGP wildcard, and to do it on Australian soil makes it even more special. The level in MXGP is insane, you're up against world champions, factory riders and the fastest guys on the planet, but that's exactly why I'm so pumped for Darwin.
"I can't wait to get out there, fly the Aussie flag and show what I can do against the best."
