Jay Wilson has kicked off his 2025 season and title defence in perfect fashion, claiming victory at the opening round of the All Japan Motocross Championship over the weekend.
Held at the HSR circuit in Kyushu, Wilson picked up right where he left off in 2024, delivering a dominant performance with a double moto win in the IA1 class aboard his Yamaha Factory Racing YZ450F.
Despite ideal weather, the track was wet and heavy throughout the weekend, offering a tough challenge for riders—particularly for the season’s first outing. But Wilson, known for his strength in the mud since his racing days in Australia, took command in both 30-minute motos and secured comfortable victories.
The result sets Wilson up for a strong start as he chases his fourth championship title in Japan, having previously won the 250cc class in 2022 and back-to-back IA1 titles in 2023 and 2024.
“It was a mud race in the sunshine,” Wilson laughed at day’s end. “And in a strange coincidence, when I think about those conditions, I think about Appin in Australia where they were running at ProMX Championship at the same time. We have had some mud races in the sunshine there over the years.
“Anyway, was good to get the win and start the year right. I had a good break over the off season, then went down to New Zealand to spend a month working with Josh Coppins as part of my preseason and I think that has helped a lot. The pace increases here a little every year and the riders are gaining more international experience, so it’s important I continue to prepare as well as I can as the moment I relax, it will show in the results.
“Thanks to my mechanic and team again for their hard work on the weekend and I look forward to Sugo in a couple of weeks’ time,” Wilson concluded.
