Triumph Factory Racing has confirmed that Gage Linville will join the team for the remainder of the 2026 SMX World Championship, stepping in to replace the injured Jalek Swoll aboard the TF 250-X.
The 23-year-old from Georgia arrives with a solid resume, having delivered strong results across AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross, while also recently securing back-to-back Partzilla Arenacross titles. His call-up comes at a critical time for the team following Swoll’s Achilles injury sustained in Birmingham last weekend.
Linville has wasted no time getting up to speed, only beginning his first laps on the TF 250-X earlier this week as he prepares for the 250SX East division. With testing now underway, his debut is expected to come at round six in St. Louis, Missouri, on April 4, pending how quickly he adapts to the new machine.
Speaking on the opportunity, Linville admitted it’s a moment he’s long been working toward, explaining, “I’m very thankful for this opportunity to ride for Triumph Factory Racing. It’s been a dream of mine to have this chance, and I couldn’t be more excited.” He added that his initial impressions of the bike and team have been overwhelmingly positive, noting, “The bike is unreal and I felt comfortable on it from the very first day. Everybody on the team is just top-notch and they’ve treated me amazingly since day one,” before turning his focus to the task ahead, stating, “It’s time to get to work and hopefully be ready for St. Louis!”
Looking further ahead, when the Pro Motocross season begins in May, Linville is set to line up in the 250 Class alongside Austin Forkner, who is currently recovering from a broken hand. In the premier class, Triumph’s 450 effort will be led by Jordon Smith, who recently recorded a career-best ninth-place finish in 450SX at round 10, as well as Danish rider Mikkel Haarup.
Triumph Racing America General Manager Jeremy Coker acknowledged the setbacks the team has faced through injury, expressing his disappointment for both Swoll and Forkner. He explained that Forkner had been nearing a return before suffering another setback, while Swoll had only just begun to regain momentum before his latest injury. “This sport can be brutal, and seeing them on the sidelines is never easy,” Coker said, adding that the team is wishing both riders a fast recovery.
Despite the challenges, Coker is optimistic about Linville’s arrival, describing him as a hardworking and talented rider who has not yet had the opportunity to showcase his full potential at factory level. He said the team is eager to see what Linville can achieve in this environment, adding, “It’s time to see what he can do on a factory team… I’m hoping we will be able to help him reach the level he is capable of. Let’s get to work!”
