Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki has officially finalised its 2026 ProMX Championship roster with the signing of four-time MX1 Champion Dean Ferris. The announcement confirms that Ferris will join rising talent Brad West in the team’s newly refined MX1-only program. Press: KMA

Ferris, one of the most decorated riders in Australian motocross history, brings an extraordinary résumé to the green machine—69 moto wins, 32 overall victories, and four MX1 championships. His comeback follows an extended break triggered by injury and a mid-season team split in 2024, but Ferris says the desire to compete never faded.

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“I’m beyond thankful to be signing with Empire Kawasaki for the 2026 season,” Ferris said. “Everyone is aware of the phases I’ve had in my career and although I stepped away from racing in the middle of 2024, I never officially retired. I stayed open to returning if the right program came along. Empire Kawasaki were forthcoming with the intention to go after a ProMX Championship with me in 2026.”A major draw for Ferris is reuniting with Team Manager Brad McAlpine, his former crew chief during three of his MX1 title-winning seasons. Early testing on the Kawasaki KX450 has already left a strong impression.“To be able to reunite with Brad McAlpine is an amazing opportunity and I am already loving being on the KX450 and working with the team,” Ferris added. “I’m aware of the current level in MX1 and have no illusions about the work ahead, but the feeling I have on the bike already gives me confidence that I can be competitive and challenge at the front.”Empire Kawasaki Team Owner Tyson Cherry said Ferris’s arrival aligns perfectly with the team’s strategic shift heading into next season.“We have made a big push for 2026 and progressed our relationship with Kawasaki Australia, moving into a new focus as an MX1-only program,” Cherry said. “For us to sign a rider of Dean’s caliber elevates our entire program. His history with Brad McAlpine made it an ideal fit. It’s early days, but Dean looks great on the bike and we are excited to work through the off-season and come out swinging at Wonthaggi.”Ferris will make his official debut for Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki at the opening round of the 2026 ProMX Championship at Wonthaggi on March 21–22, where anticipation will be high for both his return and the team’s renewed title ambitions.

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