Former FIM MX2 World Champion Andrea Adamo is set to take the next big step in his career, moving into the premier MXGP class with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing for the 2026 season.
The 22-year-old Italian concluded his MX2 career on a high, finishing third in the 2025 World Championship standings after a strong season that included 12 podium finishes and four Grand Prix victories. Adamo remained a title contender right up to the penultimate round of the 20-race series. Having competed in MX2 since 2021 and joined Red Bull KTM Factory Racing in 2023, he quickly established himself as one of the class’s top riders. That same year, he claimed his first Grand Prix win and went on to lift the MX2 world title.
Across his three MX2 seasons, Adamo earned 30 trophies finishing 1st, 6th, and 3rd in the championship during his tenure. His consistent performances and growth have now earned him a new multi-year deal with the factory team as he prepares to step up to the 450 class.
Although still eligible for another MX2 season before reaching the 23-year age limit, Adamo has opted to make the move to MXGP in 2026. He will begin testing and training on the KTM 450 SX-F alongside his current crew in the coming weeks. His debut season in the premier class will begin with select pre-season races before the first Grand Prix of the year on February 22nd.
Looking ahead to the challenge, Andrea Adamo said he’s eager to adapt to the new bike and competition. “I feel very excited to move to the KTM 450 SX-F. It’s a new challenge, new bike and a new style because I’ll have to adapt to the power and there’s no way you can ride it like a 250. It takes a lot of energy. I will have a learning curve. I’m sure I will have a good winter with the team and can put in a lot of hours on the bike to feel more and more comfortable. We can then see where we are and start to grow each GP. We need to get experience with each race and also watch the established top guys. Next year the level is going to be high, probably one of the most competitive championships for a few years. I’m not scared of the challenge, I want to embrace it. I’m confident. I saw what Lucas [Coenen] did this year and it gives extra motivation. I’m also very happy to continue with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing. It was a dream three years ago to join this team and I still feel the same way: it’s so good to stay here and work with these guys because they are the best. Super-happy.”
KTM Director of Offroad Racing Robert Jonas said the team is thrilled to see Adamo make the step up to the premier class and continue their successful partnership. “We’re really pleased to be able to confirm that Andrea will boost our presence in the MXGP class next season, and we’re also happy that we’re continuing our story together after a successful impact in MX2. Andrea is a smart and hard-working racer, so he knows what lies ahead in 2026. We’re confident in the team, in our KTM SX-F machinery and, of course, our champion and GP winner Andrea Adamo onboard for next year.”
