Aaron Plessinger will remain with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team through the 2026 SuperMotocross World Championship, with the popular American extending his contract for what will be a fifth consecutive season with the Austrian manufacturer.
The 29-year-old, affectionately known as The Cowboy, first joined KTM in 2022 and has become a fan favourite thanks to his infectious personality, gritty riding style, and consistent performances across both Supercross and Pro Motocross. Plessinger will continue with the factory-backed outfit under the guidance of team manager Ian Harrison, racing aboard the KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition.
“It means everything to me to be part of Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for 2026,” said Plessinger, reflecting on the renewed deal. “I love everybody and everything about this team, it’s been an awesome four years together already, and it’s flying by, but we’re having such a good time. We’ve had some really, really good results, so to have the team want to keep me around and keep going together, it’s really special to me.”
Currently sitting sixth in the 450SX standings with just one round remaining in the 2025 AMA Supercross Championship, Plessinger has notched up five podiums this season, including a hugely popular win at the Foxborough round in April – his second career victory in the premier class.
Beyond Supercross, Plessinger has also been a podium regular in the outdoor Pro Motocross Championship, finishing third overall in the 450MX standings in both 2023 and 2024. In the broader 31-round SuperMotocross World Championship series, he placed fifth in 2023 and improved to fourth in 2024, showing his ability to perform consistently across formats.
In addition to his domestic success, Plessinger has twice represented Team USA at the FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN), riding in both 2023 and 2024. His standout performance came at Matterley Basin in the United Kingdom, where he stood second on the Nations podium in the Open Class category.
While his results speak for themselves, Plessinger’s impact goes well beyond the scoreboard. As Harrison explained, “Looking back on Aaron’s career here at KTM as we move into his fifth year with the brand next year, it’s clear how much of an impact he has had. He is more than just a racer, he is an incredible competitor on the track and a huge personality off it as well.”
Harrison also highlighted the influence Plessinger has had on fans and the paddock alike. “From his long hair and cowboy hat to his unique riding style, Aaron truly stands out. He is, and will continue to be, a massive part of the KTM fanbase into 2026. He brings energy, positivity, and authenticity that resonate not only with our team and the other riders, but also with fans, sponsors, and the entire racing series.”
With another full season ahead and plenty still to play for in 2025, Plessinger is focused on closing out the year strong while looking forward to what lies ahead with KTM.
“I can’t wait for what the future brings and my focus right now is to get the best results that I can with the team,” he added. “To build the fanbase that we have is really special as well, because without them and their support we wouldn’t be anything. It’s always cool to meet our fans, to interact with the KTM Junior Supercross kids and their families at the races, and that’s what dirt bikes are all about.”
With his energy, personality, and proven racecraft, Aaron Plessinger will remain a central figure in Red Bull KTM’s racing efforts – and a favourite among fans – well into 2026.
