Team GB has revealed its three-rider line-up for the 2026 Motocross of Nations, with Taylor Hammal, Ben Mustoe and Ben Watson getting the call for Ernée, France, on October 3-4.
Hammal has been picked to represent Great Britain in MX1, Mustoe has been selected for MX2 and Watson completes the team in the Open category.
This year’s selection reflects a slightly different approach from TeamGB Manager Mark Chamberlain who has put greater emphasis on giving opportunities to riders that have tested themselves in international competition and shown they can perform at that level.
Several British riders have competed in MXGP and EMX events during the season, including at the recent British Grand Prix at Foxhills, giving TeamGB selectors a broader pool of international performances to assess.
The selection approach also reflects the ACU’s renewed focus on supporting the development of British riders as they progress, and creating opportunities for them to prove themselves on the international stage.
While Hammal, Mustoe and Watson sit outside the ACU High Performance Academy programme for Motocross riders, their selection underlines the importance of recognising emerging talent at all levels
Watson meanwhile, provides valuable Motocross of Nations experience and has previously raced at Ernée – a purpose-built motocross track that is located in the north west of France.
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Chamberlain said: “Ben knows this event and the track, and he has shown that he can raise his level at the Nations. He can help the two younger riders through the build-up and at the race. I think that will give us a good balance as TeamGB and help everyone to perform at a level that will make TeamGB proud.”
For Hammal, his selection is extra special. His first real memory of watching motocross came at Ernée 21 years ago, when he attended the Motocross of Nations with his dad, Chris. October’s event will mark the first time he’s returned to the venue in any capacity.
“It’s an absolute honour to be picked,” the 26-year-old said. “Everyone knows how special this event is, so to be selected for TeamGB means a lot. I feel like my riding has stepped up this year and it’s great that Mark has recognised that.
“There’s always pressure at the Nations, but my approach will be the same as it has been all year. I’ll go out, ride the best I can and give it everything. The track and the time of year should suit me, so if all three of us can perform at our best, I think we can give a good account of ourselves as a team.”
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Images courtesy of ACU
