Image: Octopi Media.

Recovering Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s RJ Hampshire will remain on the sidelines for the final round of the 2023 Pro Motocross Championship at Ironman as he shifts his focus to the SuperMotocross World Championship (SMX) playoffs.

Hampshire missed the Budds Creek National following a second moto crash at Unadilla, and after deliberation, the 27-year-old made the decision to sit out the 11th and final round of 250MX this Saturday.

“A lot of back and forth on going racing this weekend,” Hampshire shared. “I rode a couple days and felt good enough but wasn’t going to be at my best.  I finally made progress on my stomach and know I can be back to 100 percent soon. We will focus on that and sit out this weekend!

“Never an easy decision but glad my team is onboard and we can end this year out strong. See you soon SuperMotocross.”

Hampshire scored two moto victories throughout the 2023 Pro Motocross Championship and currently holds the third 250SMX seed ahead of the SuperMotocross World Championship playoffs, set to commence at zMax Dragway on 9 September.