Round one of the 2025–26 AMA FIM North American Arenacross Championship kicked in Huntington Beach, California, alongside Roland Sands’ Moto Beach Classic, creating a one-of-a-kind race setting right on the boardwalk — literally over the sand. Despite the unconventional venue, a familiar face emerged on top as Ryan Breece claimed the overall victory to open the season.
Breece picked up right where he left off last year and immediately established himself as the favorite for this season’s title, especially with defending champion Vince Friese sitting out the 2025–26 campaign. In race one, Breece slotted into second behind his MotoConcepts teammate Austin Politelli, who led the first four laps before crashing through the rhythm section. That mistake handed the lead — and ultimately the win — to Breece, who controlled the race from there to the finish after 18 consistent laps.
Robbie Wageman (Solitaire / Heart Beat Hot Sauce Yamaha) briefly led the opening lap but was soon overtaken by the MotoConcepts duo. He regrouped and crossed the line in second, just ahead of his new teammate Cole Thompson in third.
Race two delivered a much tighter battle. Breece grabbed the holeshot and set the pace early, with Thompson staying within striking distance the entire time — never more than three seconds adrift. As Breece encountered lapped traffic, Thompson closed the gap and made his move in the final corner, edging past Breece to steal the win by 0.083!
With 1-2 finishes, Breece secured the overall victory, while Thompson’s 3-1 results earned him second overall. It was a thrilling start to the Arenacross season — and a reminder that Breece remains the man to beat.
RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS
Top 5 AX PRO Overall
- #200 Ryan Breece (Honda) 1-2
- #16 Cole Thompson (Yamaha) 3-1
- #14 Robbie Wageman (Yamaha) 2-4
- #6 Brandon Ray (Triumph) 6-3
- #2 Jeremy Fappani (KTM) 5-5
