Chase Sexton and Monster Energy Kawasaki have jointly decided to part ways effective October 23, ending a three-year contract after just a single season together.
Kawasaki's official statement frames was brief, consisting of just three sentences, focusing on the highlights of Sexton's short stint with the factory team:
"Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. and Chase Sexton have mutually agreed to part ways effective October 23rd, 2026. The 2026 season together was highlighted by achieving two 450 Supercross wins in Anaheim and Salt Lake City, adding Sexton to the long list of Supercross winners with Kawasaki. Kawasaki wishes him the best for the 2027 season."
Sexton also released a statement on Instagram that was also succinct:
"Just want to say thank you @racekawasaki 💚 Very appreciative for all the effort by every person involved and I wish the team and all the staff the best going forward. See you at the races!"
Both sides sound like they're playing nice, but the brevity of their statements make it clear: their relationship was not working out.
Those two main-event wins at A2 and Salt Lake City were the high points of a season cut short after Sexton hurt his knee during practice at the Pro Motocross round at Thunder Valley. Both sides disagree on what caused the accident. The engine appeared to cut out, either at mid-jump or at the takeoff. Sexton claimed the engine stalled despite having the clutch lever pulled in, while Team Manager Dan Fahie suggested Sexton was at least partially at fault by not having the clutch disengaged.
This marks the second time in two years Kawasaki has had a 450 rider exit a three-year deal early. Last year, Jorge Prado and the team reached a settlement for his early release, also one year into a three-year contract, following a season derailed by a shoulder injury.
Monster Energy Kawasaki has not named a replacement for Sexton. The team currently has Garrett Marchbanks under contract for 2027. Sexton, meanwhile, has not indicated what he will be doing for 2027.