The stage is set for the opening round of the 2025 SuperMotocross (SMX) World Championship Playoffs, and the spotlight turns to Charlotte Motor Speedway’s zMAX Dragway in Concord, North Carolina. Fans are eager to watch their favorite riders battle for glory as the sport enters its postseason, but not everyone will be lining up at the gate this weekend.
As with any grueling motocross and supercross campaign, injuries and setbacks have taken their toll. Some riders are returning to action just in time for the playoffs, while others are unfortunately sidelined, forced to watch from the stands or focus on long-term recovery. Here’s a comprehensive look at who’s racing and who isn’t in both the 450SMX and 250SMX classes.
450SMX Class: Veterans in and out of the mix
The premier class is packed with talent, but a few notable absences will surely shake up the competition.
Jason Anderson – Out (Health Issues)
One of the most experienced riders in the paddock, Anderson has been struggling with ongoing health problems that have ruled him out for the remainder of the year. His absence will be felt, as the former Supercross champion remains a fan favorite.
Grant Harlan – In (Leg)
After a frightening crash at RedBud where he was run over and sidelined with a leg injury, Harlan makes his return this weekend. His resilience and determination to line up for Charlotte will make him one to watch.
Colt Nichols – Out (Thumb)
Nichols’ playoff dreams ended when he required surgery for a torn UCL in his thumb. It’s an unfortunate setback for the talented rider who had shown flashes of strong form earlier in the season.
Aaron Plessinger – Out (Illness)
Plessinger’s outdoor season was cut short due to lingering health concerns. Though he had hoped to regroup and make it back for the playoffs, he’s not yet at 100 percent. His focus is already turning toward a fresh start in 2026.
Joey Savatgy – In (Leg)
Savatgy also dealt with a leg injury suffered at RedBud, but with his playoff spot secured, he wisely used the downtime as a mini off-season. He’s recharged and ready for SMX action before heading abroad to race in World Supercross or the Australian Supercross series.
Chase Sexton – In (Shoulder)
Sexton gave fans a scare with his Ironman crash, where he banged up his shoulder. Luckily, he’s healed up enough to be ready for the playoff opener. His presence will add serious firepower to the 450 field.
Cooper Webb – In (Knee)
Another RedBud casualty, Webb tweaked his knee and had minor surgery to address it. The gritty competitor is back and cleared for Charlotte, where his determination and racecraft could make all the difference.
250SMX Class: Young stars battling injuries
The 250 class has been equally impacted by injuries, but several riders are gritting their teeth and returning just in time for the postseason.
Max Anstie – In (Leg)
Anstie hasn’t raced since breaking his leg in Birmingham, but he’s finally back on the bike and ready to make his playoff debut. His return adds an experienced edge to the 250 field.
Julien Beaumer – In (Banged Up)
Beaumer had a heavy crash at Budds Creek that forced him to DNF, but he’s shaken off the damage and will suit up for Charlotte.
Pierce Brown – Out (Back)
Brown endured a tough comeback story. After already missing significant time, he returned at Ironman only to crash again and injure his back. Sadly, he won’t be part of the playoffs.
Mikkel Haarup – Out (Collarbone)
Haarup broke his collarbone at Unadilla and has shifted his attention toward representing his country at the Motocross of Nations. His absence is a blow to the depth of the class.
Chance Hymas – Out (ACL)
Hymas tore his ACL earlier in the year at High Point, ending his season prematurely. His injury status confirms he won’t be racing any of the playoff rounds.
Michael Mosiman – Out (Ankle, Head)
Mosiman’s season has been a tough one. Already struggling with a twisted ankle, he suffered a brutal crash at Unadilla that left him with a concussion and facial cuts requiring stitches. He’s out for the playoffs, focusing instead on a full recovery.
Jalek Swoll – Out (Leg)
Swoll tore a calf muscle at Ironman, removing him from contention in the postseason. It’s a tough break for a rider who had been building solid momentum.
What It Means Going Into Charlotte
The attrition list is long, but that only creates new opportunities for the riders who are lining up. With stars like Chase Sexton, Cooper Webb, and Joey Savatgy back in action, fans can expect fierce battles at the front of the pack. Meanwhile, the return of Max Anstie and Julien Beaumer ensures the 250 class will still deliver high drama.
Injuries are an unfortunate reality of the sport, but they also highlight the toughness and determination of motocross athletes. Whether coming back from surgery or racing through lingering pain, these riders embody grit and resilience. As the gate drops at zMAX Dragway, the road to the 2025 SMX World Championship officially begins and despite the setbacks, the action promises to be unforgettable.