Team France have revealed a formidable three-rider line-up for the 2026 Motocross of Nations, with Romain Febvre, Mathis Valin and Tom Vialle set to carry the hopes of the home nation at Ernée.
Feature Image courtesy of Infront Moto Racing
France will head into the October 2-4 event looking to reclaim the MXoN crown at a venue that has already provided some unforgettable moments for Les Bleus.
Ernée was the scene of French victories in both 2015 and 2023, with the latter producing a record attendance as the home crowd watched France claim another Motocross of Nations triumph.
After finishing third at Ironman Raceway in the United States in 2025, the French federation has selected a potent combination of experience and youth for its latest assault on the Chamberlain Trophy.
Romain Febvre – MXGP
Romain Febvre will lead the French challenge in the MXGP class.
The reigning MXGP World Champion currently sits second in the 2026 championship standings and brings considerable Motocross of Nations experience to the team.
Febvre has represented France six times and has been part of four winning teams, including the country’s 2015 triumph at Ernée. He was also a member of the victorious French squads in 2016, 2017 and 2023.
Mathis Valin – MX2
Mathis Valin gets the MX2 call-up for the second consecutive year.
The Kawasaki rider has continued his progression during 2026 and reached another significant milestone by claiming his maiden Grand Prix victory.
Valin suffered an injury at the Portuguese round but has since returned to training as he works towards being fully fit for Ernée.
Tom Vialle – Open
Tom Vialle completes the line-up in the Open category following his return to the FIM Motocross World Championship this season.
After three years racing in the United States, where he claimed back-to-back 250SX East Supercross titles, Vialle returned to the Grand Prix paddock in 2026 to make his MXGP debut with Honda HRC.
Ernée will also bring back particularly good memories for Vialle. He was part of the French team that won the 2023 Motocross of Nations at the same venue.
With two members of the victorious 2023 squad returning to Ernée alongside Valin, France will undoubtedly be among the nations to watch when the gates drop in October.
The home crowd could once again prove a major factor, with France bidding to add another Motocross of Nations victory to its tally on a circuit where it has enjoyed considerable success.
