Three World Champions Crowned at Darwin’s historic MXGP of Australia

Darwin came alive this weekend as the inaugural MXGP of Australia wrapped up with a thrilling finale at Hidden Valley Motorsport Complex. From 19–21 September, thousands of fans enjoyed three days of world-class motocross racing which saw three World Champions crowned.

French rider Romain Febvre (Kawasaki) secured victory in the MXGP category despite the final race being cancelled, finishing ahead of Lucas Coenen of Belgium (KTM) in second place, while Dutch rider Glenn Coldenhoff (Fantic) claimed third spot.

In MX2, Germany’s Simon Längenfelder (KTM) claimed the crown, with Kay de Wolf (Husqvarna) of the Netherlands hot on his heels in second and Italian rider Andrea Adamo (KTM) rounding out the top three.

The WMX Championship also made its Australian debut, with Dutch rider Lotte van Drunen (Yamaha) claiming victory in this landmark moment for women’s motocross. Italy’s Kiara Fontanesi (GASGAS) finished second and Spain’s Daniela Guillen (GASGAS) took out third.

Adding to the excitement, the first-ever State Challenge brought together 86 of Australia’s best young riders in the MX85 and MX3 classes. In MX85, Ollie Birkitt (KTM, WA) took the title, followed Sidney Stephenson (GASGAS, QLD) in second and Declan Smart (GASGAS, SA) placing third.

In MX3, Ky Woods (Yamaha, NSW) dominated with three straight wins, ahead of Riley Burgess (KTM, NSW) in second and Sonny Pellicano (Yamah, WA) in third. Queensland claimed the overall State Challenge trophy, with Western Australia second and NSW third.

“The return of the FIM Motocross World Championship to Australia has been a resounding success,” said Motorcycling Australia CEO, Peter Doyle. “It’s been a delight to see spectators line the circuit cheering on all the riders – from the stars of tomorrow in the MA Motocross State Challenge to the global superstars of the sport.”

The action went well beyond the track. The MXGP Rider’s Signing Session at the Darwin Waterfront drew huge crowds with stunt shows, music, and a spectacular jet-pack performance over the lagoon. At Hidden Valley, a lively Tourism Hub featured a Million Dollar Fish activation, a reptile zoo, Flavours of the Territory foodie precinct, stunt displays, and the Protraxx Kids’ Zone for younger fans.

Attendances have exceeded all expectations, with more than 36,000 attendances across three days of racing. Around 58% of fans travelled from interstate and overseas, providing a significant boost to the Territory’s economy.

Delivered by the Northern Territory Major Events Company (NTMEC) in partnership with MXGP rights-holder Infront Moto Racing (IMR) and Motorcycling Australia (MA), the event was broadcast to more than 100 countries, reaching a potential audience of over 700 million. Nationally, the final races of the 2025 MXGP Championship on Sunday aired live on Channel 9’s Gem while Stan Sport also provided four hours of dedicated live coverage.

“The images and atmosphere from this weekend and the amazing track will travel around the world, showcasing the beauty of the Northern Territory and the excitement of MXGP,” said Infront Moto Racing, David Luongo. “We are proud of this achievement and already look forward to coming back in 2026 for another unforgettable edition.”

This event marked the return of MXGP to Australia after 24 years, with Darwin locked in as the event’s home for the next four years. The 2026 edition will take place from 18–20 September.

Three-day Hot Pass tickets for 2026 are on sale now at 2025 prices for a limited time, with exclusive Paddock access so fans can get up close with riders and their teams. For tickets and the latest information visit, mxgpaustralia.com.au