Sometimes motocross feels a bit like history pauses briefly – only to then drop a big exclamation mark at precisely the right moment. That's exactly the moment we've reached. Because what we already suspected in NovemberIt is now officially confirmed: The 2026 Motocross World Championship will start the season with two starting numbers 1.
Kawasaki makes it official: Febvre rides the #1
Kawasaki's press release, which has now been published, leaves no room for interpretation. Romain Febvre He will defend his MXGP title with the number 1. It's official: the reigning world champion will compete on his Kawasaki with the #1 in 2026.
This makes it clear: the #1 is not just a design detail, but a conscious decision. Febvre is visibly positioning himself at the top – and taking on precisely the role that has been the exception rather than the rule in MXGP for decades.
Our prediction from November – now reality
Why is this so special? Because we pointed out months ago that something unique was brewing here. The MXGP is traditionally a series of personal numbers243, 84, 222 – numbers that represent identity more than proof of title. That's precisely why our thesis was bold: in 2026, for the first time in over 20 years, both reigning world champions could be riding with the #1.
With the confirmation from Kawasaki, it is now clear: The other half of this scenario is official.
MX2 + MXGP: Two champions, one clear statement
In combination with the already known decision of Simon Langenfelder, who as the reigning MX2 world champion also uses starting number 1, a historical overall picture emerges:
- MXGP 2026: Romain Febvre – #1
- MX2 2026: Simon Längenfelder – #1
A double #1 year, something that hasn't happened since the early 2000s. Not in the 2010s. Not even by chance. But now – deliberately, decisively, demonstratively.
More than a number
The fact that Kawasaki themselves speak of a "dream" is telling. The #1 number doesn't just stand for winning the title in 2025, but for responsibility, expectations, and a point of attack. Choosing it doesn't mean: "I was good." Rather: "I am the standard." That both world championship classes Sending this message in the same year makes 2026 stand out from the crowd. This is no coincidence, no passing trend – it's a clear sign of self-confidence.
Our forecast is based on
Confirmation from Kawasaki makes it official: The 2026 Motocross World Championship will be run with two starting numbers 1.
A rare chapter in MX history. A moment for statistics nerds. And a strong signal to the competition: Anyone who wants to become world champion knows exactly what to do. who needs to be beaten.