The 2025 season was a hallmark of dominance for Team Honda HRC Progressive, a year defined by silverware and a historic sweep of three major championships. However, the momentum of the legendary factory squad has been met with a harsh reality as the 2026 preseason approaches. In a devastating blow to the paddock, superstar Jett Lawrence has suffered a significant ankle injury, sidelining him for the opening stages of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship.
The incident occurred during a routine training session on Friday at The Dog Pound. While spinning laps, the 22-year-old Australian crashed, resulting in fractures to both the talus and navicular bones in his right ankle and foot. These specific bones are critical for joint stability and weight distribution, making the recovery process particularly delicate for a professional athlete. Lawrence underwent successful surgery on Saturday to stabilize the fractures, but the road to recovery will be lengthy. Medical estimates suggest a three-month hiatus from competitive racing.
This injury is a cruel twist of fate for the younger Lawrence brother, who was entering 2026 with a chip on his shoulder. His 2025 Supercross campaign was cut short in heartbreaking fashion after he tore his ACL during Round 4 in Glendale. Having worked tirelessly to reclaim his status at the pinnacle of the sport, Jett took to Instagram to express his frustration and resolve, noting that his primary goal for the 2026 season was to compete in all 31 scheduled races—a goal that has now been rendered impossible.
The timing could not be worse for Team Honda HRC Progressive. The “injury bug” has seemingly taken up residence in the Honda pits; just last month, 250SMX champion Jo Shimoda was involved in a serious practice crash that has cast doubt on his availability for the upcoming season. With Lawrence and Shimoda both on the sidelines, the team’s once-unstoppable roster is looking remarkably thin.
Currently, the factory effort rests on the shoulders of Hunter Lawrence in the 450 class and Chance Hymas, who is slated to contest the 250 West series. The vacuum left by Jett’s absence raises immediate questions regarding a fill-in rider. Last season, the team turned to veteran Dean Wilson for five rounds to substitute for the Lawrence brothers during their respective recovery periods. Whether Honda will seek a high-profile replacement for the early 2026 rounds or focus their resources on their remaining two riders remains to be seen.
If his rehabilitation stays on track, the industry is circling the March 21st race in Birmingham, Alabama, as a potential return date for the “Jet.” While his championship aspirations for the indoor season may be effectively over, his return will be vital for Honda’s defense of their SuperMotocross titles later in the year. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the 2026 season kicks off, wondering if the Red Riders can overcome this early-season adversity.