Kiwi Rider October 2023 Vol.2 | Page 19

DIRT NEWS
the entire KTM company have been nothing but accommodating . I think we have a bright future together and I ’ m eager to get to work .” Sexton clinched a first-career premier class Supercross Championship in May this year with six Main Event victories to his credit and went on to claim fourth position in the final 450MX standings , despite missing multiple rounds in the first half of the outdoors He then placed P3 overall following the inaugural SMX post-season to complete the marathon 31-round schedule , winning the hybrid-type Charlotte event to open the playoffs , and once again established himself as a legitimate title challenger across each discipline in taking the championship down to the wire . “ Our goal with Chase from the onset is to make him feel welcomed and truly at home with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing team ,” says Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager , Ian Harrison . “ During these early days , we are working toward preparing a great race package for both Chase and the team to build from . I really think that we can deliver the full factory support system that he longs for and deserves , and I also feel strongly that Chase will continue to elevate the team and our riders to a stronger position . We look forward to being in the fight in 2024 and thank him for trusting in us .” According to KTM ’ s North American Director of Motorsports , Roger De Coster , Sexton has been on the team ’ s radar as a potential signing for some time . “ We are always watching and looking at riders progressing through their early years and Chase ’ s progress has been very impressive , he says , “ I am impressed by his determination and tenacity on the track , as well as his professionalism in the way that he handles himself off the track , and our entire U . S . team is thrilled to have the opportunity to work and grow with Chase in the coming years . Our brand values align with those of Chase , so collectively we are really excited to see what the future has in store for both of us and what we can all achieve together .” The competitive debut of the Sexton and Red Bull KTM Factory Racing combo is scheduled to take place at Round 1 of the 2024 AMA Supercross Championship – which will again double as the SMX season-opener – in Anaheim , California , on Saturday , January 6 .
KIWI RIDER 19