Great news from Down Under: former MXGP rider and three–time AUS ProMX Champion Dean Ferris has officially confirmed his return to the championship after a year and a half on the sidelines.
Back in 2024, Ferris (35) was leading the Australian Pro Motocross series with the CDR Yamaha team when a heavy crash during qualifying at Round 4 in Maitland ended his bid for a fifth title and forced him out for the remainder of the season — and ultimately the entire 2025 campaign. After a long recovery process, Ferris is set to return to racing with the Penrite Empire Kawasaki Racing Team, joining forces with teammate Brad West.
“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 following my small injury and team split, I never officially retired and remained open to returning to racing on the right program for me.
I am aware of the current level in MX1 and under no illusions that I have a lot of work ahead of me, but with that being said, the feeling I have on the bike already makes me feel confident I will be competitive and challenge at the front of the field.”
Ferris is one of the most accomplished riders in ProMX history, with 69 moto wins, 32 overall victories, and four MX1 championships to his name. His comeback after an extended layoff marks the beginning of a new chapter in his storied career.
