The six-time World Champion wrapped up his season in style in Japan, winning Saturday’s qualifying race and both Sunday motos. Meanwhile, Jay Wilson secured his fourth national title with a solid performance at the final round.
As has become tradition in recent years, Japanese manufacturers often invite some of the world’s top riders to compete in the final round of their national championship. Tim Gajser made a guest appearance in previous seasons, followed by Romain Febvre last year. In 2026, Japanese fans had the opportunity to see Jeffrey Herlings in action.
Fresh off securing his sixth Motocross World Championship title, and his first with Honda HRC PETRONAS, the Dutchman travelled to Japan as a special guest of the Japanese manufacturer to contest the ninth and final round of the Japanese Motocross Championship at Sugo, in Miyagi Prefecture.
There were no surprises as Herlings began the weekend by winning Saturday’s qualifying race. On Sunday, he completed a perfect performance, taking both motos and leading from start to finish in each outing to once again demonstrate his incredible speed.
Kainosuke Oshiro (Yamaha) joined him on the podium with two second-place finishes (2-2), while third overall went to Nakajima Soja (Yamaha). The young Japanese rider, making his debut in the premier class after claiming two IA2 (250cc) titles, secured the final podium spot with 3-3 moto results.
Jay Wilson Claims Fourth Japanese Championship Title
Beyond Herlings’ dominant performance, attention was also focused on the championship battle. Jay Wilson arrived at the final round with a 17-point advantage over Yuki Okura (Honda), a margin he managed to protect to secure another national crown.
The Australian finished the two motos with 6-4 results, while Okura recorded 7-4 finishes. That was enough for Wilson to maintain his championship lead and secure his fourth Japanese Motocross Championship title overall, adding a third crown in the premier 450 class.
The Sugo round also marked the end of Wilson’s time with Yamaha. For now, his plans for the 2027 season remain uncertain.
