Honda HRC has bolstered its roster even further for the 2025 FIM Motocross World Championship, building on last year’s impressive trio of Tim Gajser (MXGP), Ruben Fernandez (MXGP), and Ferruccio Zanchi (MX2).
The addition of Valerio Lata (MX2) to the team in November promises even more strength, with two riders aboard the Honda CRF450R and two on the CRF250R. This well-rounded lineup has generated plenty of excitement within the team, as they prepare for what could be a highly successful season.
Of course, that shouldn’t come as a surprise when you consider the accolades of five-time world champion Gajser, who narrowly missed out on his sixth title at the final round of 2024. Despite that disappointment, he was able to rebound quickly and put in an incredible performance at the Motocross of Nations in Matterley Basin, going one-one and quickly reminding everyone that he’ll be the man to beat this coming season.
Fernandez is in a different situation, given how he missed a large portion of the 2024 campaign, but the Spaniard showed on his return that he is a force to be reckoned with, when he got back to full-fitness and with a complete off-season behind him, he’s ready to show the speed that saw him take victory at the opening round of the 2023 season. And while the track they visit in Argentina for round one this year is different than the one he won at, the #70 knows what he is capable of, and is excited at the prospect of starting afresh in ’25.
A rookie in the MX2 class last year, Zanchi made a solid debut in Honda HRC’s reintroduced 250cc programme. Despite the challenges, the young Italian delivered several strong performances, ultimately finishing 10th in the championship standings. Now, with a full season of experience and further development of the CRF250R, Zanchi is determined to take his performance to the next level. Relocating to Belgium over the winter demonstrates his commitment to improving, and he is eager to showcase his growth on the global stage.
Valerio Lata, the newest addition to the team, arrives with an impressive European motocross resume and the determination to continue his success in the world championships. Having already earned a podium as a wildcard rider in 2024, Lata has proven he has the speed necessary for the MX2 class. However, he understands the challenges of a full season and has used the winter to adapt to the bike while enhancing his fitness in preparation for the demanding 20-round schedule. Lata is eager to make his official debut with Honda HRC and is excited about the opportunity to prove himself on the world stage.
Before the season kicks off, the team will head to Mantova, Italy, for the Internazionali D’Italia on February 9th, allowing the riders a chance to get in a few competitive races before the championship begins in earnest. Following that, the riders will choose from events in Montevarchi (Italy), Sommieres (France), and Cadiz (Spain) for additional preparation before traveling to Cordoba, Argentina, for the season opener. With a strong lineup and high expectations, the Honda HRC team is ready to showcase their capabilities in the 2025 World Motocross Championship.
