More developments for Team USA just days before the 2025 Motocross of Nations at Ironman Raceway in Crawfordsville, Indiana. Justin Cooper is now the team’s official MX2 rider after Haiden Deegan bowed out of competition due to the broken collarbone he sustained at the final round of the SuperMotocross Playoffs.
Deegan rode the bike for the first time on Tuesday but decided he wouldn’t be able to race at a winning speed after his recent surgery. His Monster Energy Star Racing Yamaha teammate, Justin Cooper, will drop down to the 250 class and fill Deegan’s spot, joining Eli Tomac and RJ Hampshire in another quest for the Chamberlain Trophy. This marks Cooper’s third time competing in the Motocross of Nations event. He was part of the winning team back in 2022 at RedBud where he also took the overall win in the MX2 division.
“I’m really excited to get the call and line up for Team USA this weekend at Ironman,” said Cooper. “It’s a bummer to see the injuries to both Haiden and Chase [Sexton] these past few weeks, but I’ve done my best to stay ready for this exact scenario. I only have a few days riding on the YZ250F, but I feel really good and was able to get back up to speed quickly. The MXoN has always been an event that I take a lot of pride in, so I can’t wait to get back out there with Eli and RJ and make America proud!”
“At this point, I have done everything in my power to race this weekend,” Deegan said. “I rode today for the first time after my surgery to prepare for MXON. After riding today and discussing with the team, it became clear that I couldn’t sustain my speeds at a winning level. The team has decided the best option is for me to fully recover and have Justin Cooper fill my spot. I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to representing the USA in the future when I’m healthy.”
“The team is proud to represent the U.S. on home soil at this year’s Motocross of Nations,” said Star Racing Team Manager Wil Hahn. “Haiden was doing everything he could to be back from injury and represent his country, but unfortunately, after riding today, he’s just not quite there yet to ride at his level. Justin’s been working hard, and we all thank him for changing his plans and being ready to fill in on short notice. We’re looking forward to the weekend.”
