Honda HRC Progressive rider Jett Lawrence will miss all three rounds of the 2026 SuperMotocross Playoffs as he undergoes further surgery on the right ankle injury that has troubled him throughout the season.
American Honda confirmed the news on Wednesday, with Lawrence opting to address the ongoing pain and instability in the ankle that was originally injured during training last December.
Despite the setback, the Australian completed the entire AMA Pro Motocross Championship and remained a major title contender throughout the season. Lawrence claimed four overall victories and finished runner-up in the final 450 championship standings behind teammate Hunter Lawrence, but he did so while managing persistent pain and discomfort.
The injury worsened at the Ironman National when Lawrence aggravated the ankle during the opening moto, resulting in a renewed level of pain and instability that ultimately led to the decision to undergo surgery.
Lawrence is scheduled to have the procedure performed on September 9 at the Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado. Following consultations with doctors, the decision was made to address the issue now in an effort to ensure a full recovery and protect his long-term future in the sport. Specialists from the Steadman Clinic will continue overseeing his rehabilitation following the surgery.
Explaining the decision, Lawrence said the focus is now on returning to full fitness rather than attempting to race through the upcoming SMX series.
“I’ve made the decision with my team to sit out the SMX series to get my ankle back to 100% for the longevity of my career,” Lawrence said. “I suffered through the summer and did everything I could to win the outdoor championship, but my ankle hasn’t felt right since the start of the season, and it’s even worse now after Ironman. I want to do everything I can to get back to being me. The most important thing is that I get back to being pain-free as I work towards next year. I appreciate the patience of my team, family and fans as I do everything I can to make that happen!”
The opening round of the SuperMotocross Playoffs takes place on September 12 in Columbus, Ohio, where Honda HRC Progressive will field newly crowned 450 AMA Pro Motocross Champion Hunter Lawrence in the premier class, while reigning 250SMX Champion Jo Shimoda and Chance Hymas will contest the support category.
Hunter Lawrence finished a close second to his younger brother in last year’s SMX Championship, while Shimoda enters the playoffs as the defending 250SMX title holder.
American Honda Manager of Racing & Experiential Brandon Wilson said the team fully supports Lawrence’s decision to prioritise his health and recovery.
“We’re sorry that Jett won’t be able to go for his fourth consecutive SMX Championship, but the entire team supports him in this decision,” Wilson said. “Although it would be great to see him battle for another SMX title, he has a long career ahead of him, and we’re in full support of doing what’s necessary to get back as close to 100% as possible. In the meantime, we look forward to taking on the SMX Playoffs with Hunter, Jo and Chance, all of whom should be very competitive.”
