After five seasons with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing, Aaron Plessinger has secured his next ride, with 5.11 Triumph Factory Racing officially confirming that the popular American has signed a two-year deal to contest the AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross Championships aboard the TF 450-X.
One of the most recognisable figures in American motocross and Supercross, Plessinger brings extensive experience and race-winning credentials to Triumph’s growing 450 program as the British manufacturer continues to build towards the front of the SuperMotocross World Championship.
The move marks a new chapter for both rider and team. Plessinger has watched Triumph’s rapid rise since the brand entered top-level motocross competition and believes the team’s ambitions align with his own as he looks to add more wins to his résumé and challenge for championships.
Before preparations for the 2027 season ramp up, Plessinger will make his first official appearance as a Triumph rider at the company’s Global Dealer Conference in Thailand from October 6-9. The event will see him formally welcomed into the Triumph family in front of approximately 1,200 dealers from around the world.
Following Thailand, Plessinger will return to the team’s facility near Atlanta, Georgia, where he will begin testing the TF 450-X and establishing his base settings ahead of the new season.
His first competitive appearance on the Triumph machine is scheduled for the Paris Supercross in November, before an extensive testing and development program begins in preparation for the 2027 SuperMotocross World Championship.
Plessinger said the opportunity to join Triumph was one he was genuinely excited about, having closely followed the progress of the program over the last few years.
“I’m super excited to be joining 5.11 Triumph Factory Racing,” Plessinger said.
“I’ve been watching what the team has been building over the last few years and I really believe in the potential of both the team and the TF 450-X.”
The American said the goals between rider and team were aligned.
“We all want the same thing, which is to win races and fight for championships, and I’m excited to be part of that journey.”
Plessinger is also looking forward to getting to know his new team before beginning the serious work of preparing for 2027.
“I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone, spending time with the team in Thailand at the Global Dealer Conference, and then getting back to Georgia to start testing properly,” he said.
“The Paris Supercross will be a great way to begin this new chapter, and after that we’ll really get to work preparing for the 2027 SuperMotocross season.”
Looking ahead, Plessinger hopes he can contribute both on and off the track.
“Hopefully I can bring plenty of good times, some victories, and put Triumph right in the fight for championships.”
Triumph Racing America General Manager Jeremy Coker said bringing Plessinger into the program was a significant addition for the team, particularly given their history together.
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Aaron to 5.11 Triumph Factory Racing,” Coker said.
“Having worked with Aaron previously, I have a tremendous amount of respect for him both as a racer and as a person.”
Coker reflected on their previous success together and believes the partnership can deliver more results.
“Winning championships together with Aaron was honestly some of the most fun and rewarding racing I’ve ever been a part of, so having the opportunity to work together again is really special for me.
“I know what Aaron is capable of, I know the determination and personality he brings to a race team, and I truly believe we have the right people and programme around him to be successful.”
For Coker, the objective is straightforward.
“Our goal is simple: give Aaron everything he needs to get back to his winning ways and compete for race victories and championships.
“I couldn’t be more excited to have him as part of 5.11 Triumph Factory Racing and to start this next chapter together.”
Triumph Motorcycles Head of Global Racing Programmes Ian Kimber believes Plessinger’s arrival will strengthen the team both on and off the track.
“We’re really excited for Aaron to join 5.11 Triumph Factory Racing and work with us on taking the next step in the AMA SuperMotocross World Championship,” Kimber said.
“Not only is he a respected, talented, and professional racer, he’s also a great guy and an absolute fan favourite.”
Kimber expects the American’s experience and personality to make an immediate impact within the organisation.
“His enthusiasm, experience, and talent will provide a new dimension for the team, bringing us some fresh energy and a new perspective, while this will also give him a completely new challenge as he steps onto the TF 450-X.”
As Triumph continues developing its 450 program, Kimber said the team is eager to get started.
“We can’t wait to see him get stuck in on the bike as we head into the off-season, and we’re really looking forward to working together.”
