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In a significant development for motocross, five-time world champion Jeffrey Herlings has signed a multi-year contract with Honda HRC. Known as ‘The Bullet’, Herlings is recognized as the most successful Grand Prix (GP) rider in history, accumulating an impressive array of titles. This marks his first experience racing the Honda CRF450R, following a long-standing partnership with Red Bull KTM.
Anticipation for the upcoming season
The 2026 MXGP World Championship is approaching, with the opening round scheduled to occur in Bariloche, Argentina, in just over three months. Jeffrey Herlings is eager to adapt to his new machine and will begin training on the Honda CRF450R immediately. This transition is crucial for him as he seeks to maintain his competitive edge in an intensely contested field.
Previous accomplishments
Jeffrey Herlings began his illustrious career in 2008 by winning the 85cc World Championship. Since that milestone, he has recorded 112 overall wins across various terrains, demonstrating his adaptability and skill in different racing conditions. Renowned for his prowess in sandy environments, Herlings has consistently met challenges head-on, heightening expectations for his future performance with Honda HRC.
A new era for Honda HRC
Herlings joins Honda HRC alongside fellow competitors Tom Vialle and Ruben Fernandez. This trio seeks to revive the legacy of the 1980s, a period when Honda dominated the 500cc championship. Additionally, Valerio Lata will represent the team in the MX2 class, amplifying anticipation for the upcoming season as fans look forward to witnessing potential historical moments.
Herlings’ perspective on the change
Herlings expressed his enthusiasm regarding his recent transition to Honda HRC. He stated, “This is a significant change for me, but I’m incredibly excited to be part of Honda HRC and to ride the CRF450R. Having spent years in the paddock, I’ve observed various teams and how they operate. When Honda showed interest in bringing me on board, it was clear to me that this was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I know I’m joining a highly professional and organized team dedicated to supporting its riders.” His eagerness to adapt to the new bike is evident, as he likened the experience to a child eagerly awaiting the unwrapping of a gift.
Words from the team management
Marcus Pereira de Freitas, General Manager of Honda HRC for MXGP, highlighted the significance of signing a talent like Jeffrey Herlings. “The opportunity to acquire a five-time world champion is not something that comes along often. As soon as we realized we could bring Jeffrey onto our team, we had to make it happen,” he stated. De Freitas acknowledged Herlings’ enthusiasm for the upcoming season, suggesting that it holds exceptional potential for the entire team. Although the timeline for Herlings to adjust to his new environment is tight, the team is eager to see his performance on the Honda CRF450R.
Herlings’ transition to Honda HRC marks a considerable change in the motocross landscape. His determination, combined with the strong support from the Honda team, sets the stage for an exciting season ahead, filled with potential victories and memorable moments in the sport’s history.