Eyes will not only be on the battle for the men’s crown at Thunder Valley, with one of the biggest names in women’s motocross heading to America as Lotte Van Drunen is set to take on the best of the American field at Round 2 of the AMA WMX Championship.
The defending FIM Women’s Motocross World Champion arrives in the United States as one of the sport’s standout young stars, having secured back-to-back WMX world titles in 2024 and 2025. At just 17, Van Drunen became the youngest WMX World Champion in history and has since established herself as a consistent front-runner on the world stage.
Known for her strong starts, adaptability across sand and hardpack circuits, and composure under pressure, the Dutch rider has quickly built a reputation as one of the most complete young talents in women’s motocross. While her 2026 season hasn’t delivered the same level of domination seen in her breakthrough years, she remains firmly in the title fight and a regular podium contender as the WMX championship continues to grow in depth and competitiveness.
Her move to race in the United States adds another major storyline to Round 2, with WMX continuing to attract increasing international attention and deeper competition across both continents. Van Drunen’s arrival sets up a fascinating benchmark against the American regulars, with the field already proving tight at the front following the opening round.
“AMERICA, I AM READY! Proud to say I will be lining up at the AMA WMX at Thunder Valley & Highpoint,” Van Drunen said on social media.
The US-based WMX opener saw defending champion Lachlan Turner take victory ahead of Australia’s Charli Cannon, setting the stage for a highly competitive season as Van Drunen now enters the mix.
The announcement was welcomed by WMX officials, who believe van Drunen’s participation highlights the growing international profile of the championship and the calibre of talent it continues to attract.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lotte van Drunen to the U.S. to compete in the Women’s Motocross Championship Powered by Synchrony. The opportunity to add a two-time World Champion into the mix serves as yet another milestone for this series and is a testament to the talent of our athletes,” said Christina Denney, WMX Director. “This is confirmation that the world is watching WMX and it’s incredibly rewarding to know we’re building a championship that the most elite racers from across the globe want to be a part of.”
On-track action for the WMX at Thunder Valley will span two days, with qualifying and the weekend’s first 12 Minutes + 1 Lap moto scheduled for Friday, June 12. The women will return to the track on Saturday, June 13, for a midday warm-up before contesting the second and final moto following the conclusion of the men’s 450SMX and 250SMX classes.
