After three successful years in the USA, he returns Tom Vialle 2026 with the Honda HRC PETRONAS Team Back on the MXGP stage – and with one of the most exciting steps of his career. The two-time world champion is making the move up to the 450cc class and will compete for the first time in the premier category of the Motocross World Championship. New bike, new team, new opponents – and at the same time, familiar territory in Europe.
Before the start of the season, the Frenchman answered questions from the international press about his return from America, the switch to the 450, his expectations for his first MXGP year and the special motivation that drives him.
Tom, after three years in the USA you're back in Europe and will be competing in the MXGP class on the 450 for the first time in 2026. How was the transition for you?
It was actually a nice return. I spent three years in the USA and before that four years here in Europe. Adjusting wasn't a huge adjustment; I quickly got back into the rhythm. Of course, the 450cc bike is new to me—this is my first season in this class—so there's still a lot to learn.
What was the biggest challenge when switching to the 450cc class?
Definitely the bike. The 450's performance is completely different, plus there's a new team and new opponents I've never raced against before. I've been riding the Honda since November and we've done a lot of testing to find a good setup I'm happy with. But testing and training is different from racing GPs – that will be the real test.
You've already achieved tremendous success in the 250cc class, both in the USA and in the World Championship. What are your expectations for your first 450cc season?
It's hard to say exactly. I've only just finished my first 450cc race. GP races are completely different from preparation races. The first step is to get on the podium and, if possible, fight for wins. Consistency is key because the season is long – almost 20 GPs. I want to be at the front every weekend and improve throughout the season.
How does racing in Europe differ from your time in the USA?
The tracks are different, the format is different – in MXGP we have two race days and a long weekend. I know the European tracks, but I need to get used to the rhythm again. However, I spent four years here in the 250cc class, so I think I'll adapt quickly.
A third World Championship title would put you in a special position historically. Is that something that motivates you?
To be honest, I didn't even know that before. But of course, that would be a dream. Right now, I'm focused on developing in the 450cc class. If we can compete for titles someday, that would be fantastic.
Chase Sexton mentioned that he'd like to see you at the Motocross of Nations in Ernée. Would that be a particular goal for you?
Motocross of Nations is always something special, especially in France. I was there in 2023 and we won – that was one of the best weekends of my life. If I'm selected, I'd love to race again and compete against Chase. We've trained together a lot, but we've never actually battled each other on the track.
How would you describe your starting position before the first GP in Argentina?
I feel well prepared. We've worked hard, the bike is at a good level, and I've quickly readjusted to Europe. Now it's about putting that into practice in the race and progressing step by step.