The reigning King of Paris will not return to defend his crown this year due to his expected team switch ahead of the 2027 AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross seasons in the United States.
Malcolm Stewart will miss the King of Paris on November 21–22 at the Paris La Défense Arena, ending his hopes of defending the title he claimed last year. The American rider was crowned King of Paris at the 42nd edition of the event after winning four of the six races over the weekend. It was an almost unexpected triumph, as Stewart had joined the entry list as a last-minute replacement.
This time, however, he will not be back to fight for another crown. It has been known since midway through the season that Rockstar Energy Husqvarna would be shutting down its racing operation, forcing its riders to look for new opportunities. RJ Hampshire has already been confirmed with Red Bull Ducati Troy Lee Designs, while Ryder DiFrancesco and Daxton Bennick are set to join Red Bull KTM.
As for Stewart, his move to Monster Energy Kawasaki is an open secret, although an official announcement is not expected for another couple of weeks. And it is precisely his anticipated move to the new team that will keep him out of this year’s Paris Supercross.
Monster Energy Kawasaki is known for its reluctance to compete in events outside the United States, with the team’s absence from the Motocross of Nations being a notable example. In this case, however, Stewart’s absence is more than just speculation. Eric Peronnard, promoter of the Paris Supercross, confirmed that the American will not compete for these very reasons.
There had been some hope that Kawasaki might make an exception, particularly given that Stewart would have the opportunity to make his debut with the team wearing the #1 plate. However, Peronnard has since confirmed that this will not happen. Kawasaki is also facing logistical challenges with the arrival of its new bike, further complicating the situation.
Paris Supercross organizers are now working to find a replacement. One potential candidate is Triumph rider Jordon Smith, who could travel to Paris alongside his new teammate, Aaron Plessinger.
Despite Stewart’s absence, the entry list remains stacked with talent. Ken Roczen, Jo Shimoda, Tom Vialle, and brothers Lucas and Sacha Coenen are among the headline names expected to take on the Paris La Défense Arena.
