Suzuki and the rumors about an MXGP comeback

In recent months, rumors have been circulating that Suzuki is working on a return to the Motocross World Championship after years of absence. Officially, the Japanese manufacturer remains tight-lipped – but internally, there seems to be much more activity than one would expect after their surprising withdrawal from MotoGP and MXGP. And that's precisely why so many are watching Hamamatsu with bated breath: Will the yellow bikes actually make their comeback in 2027?

Why Suzuki again, of all things?

Since the end of its factory program in 2017, Suzuki's presence in motocross has been a mere shadow of its former self. No model updates, no official teams, no visible plan for the future. Yet, behind the scenes, the brand has never completely ceased to send signals about its motorsport heritage.

The most important clue: Suzuki operates in multi-year development cycles. So, if 2027 emerges as a possible comeback year, that would fit perfectly with the kind of long-term planning for which Japanese manufacturers are known. And that's exactly what several independent insiders are currently saying.

The role of Silvan Geboers – a name that makes you sit up and take notice

When it comes to Suzuki and motocross, one name comes up again and again: Silvan Geboers. The Belgian led the successful Suzuki factory team for decades, produced world champions, and is still considered a key figure for everything concerning Suzuki and off-road racing.

Geboers' recent trip to Japan reignited the rumor mill. A clear denial? Not a chance. Instead, a typically cautious statement that sounded more like "I'm not allowed to talk about it" than a genuine "no." And we know exactly these kinds of nuanced pronouncements all too well from this industry.

2026 is cancelled – and that's precisely what makes 2027 so realistic.

If Suzuki returns, it won't be half-hearted. And that means: a new motorcycle. The RM-Z platform has long since reached its technical limits. Ride-by-wire, modern electronics, a new frame – all of that is on the to-do list if Suzuki wants to make a comeback internationally. No new model is homologated for 2025 and 2026, which makes it clear: a factory entry before 2027 is virtually impossible.

Conversely, this also means that if a factory team is to compete in 2027, Suzuki would have to appear in Europe with test prototypes by 2026 at the latest. And many are talking about exactly that.

The perfect time for a comeback? Actually, yes.

Motocross is currently undergoing a transformation. Triumph and Ducati have entered the field in recent years, and Beta and Fantic are investing. MXGP is regaining manufacturer interest as a platform – and Suzuki could seize this moment to reposition itself without being directly overshadowed by the Japanese manufacturers remaining in MXGP.

Furthermore, HEP Suzuki's US project demonstrates that racing program structures can work when implemented correctly. The success of riders like Ken Roczen has further boosted the brand's profile. This is momentum that shouldn't be allowed to stagnate.

How likely is a comeback really?

It seems like one of those rare projects where many puzzle pieces suddenly fall into place – without anyone saying it out loud. And that's precisely what makes the situation so exciting.

That's for sure:
Nothing will happen in 2026.
Suzuki is reconsidering motocross.
– Several insiders report consistent activity.
Geboers plays a role – at least in an advisory capacity.

It is likely that:
– a new RM-Z model is already in development,
Test drives are scheduled to begin in 2026,
– 2027 would be the most realistic comeback window in years.

The following remains open:
– who would lead the team,
– which drivers are eligible,
– and how deeply Suzuki intends to invest financially.

A comeback with history – and with a future?

Nothing is official yet. But this time the rumors seem different – ​​more substantial, more coordinated, and above all: unchallenged. Suzuki is making progress, albeit slowly, but noticeably. And perhaps in a few years we will indeed see yellow factory bikes back on the MXGP starting grid.

Until then, only one thing remains certain: this issue will be with us for a long time to come. And perhaps that is a good sign.