Following major structural changes within the factory racing lineup, the American off-road racing transfer market continues to heat up significantly. Just days after the official departure announcement of Chase Sexton from the primary factory squad, management moved swiftly to secure Malcolm Stewart as their newest factory rider.
Previously, Stewart held the status of a free agent in the transfer market after his former manufacturer, Husqvarna, decided to scale back their full factory involvement. This exact situation was promptly capitalized upon by Kawasaki's management to recruit the highly experienced competitor to bolster their frontline ahead of the upcoming racing calendar.
For the 34-year-old rider, this transition holds deep emotional significance as it marks a return to his roots with the manufacturer that nurtured his early development. Throughout his entire amateur racing career phase, he consistently relied on the machinery of the Japanese manufacturer before advancing to the professional ranks.
"I started my racing career as an amateur on a Kawasaki," Stewart explained in his official statement. "It is a moment where everything comes full circle. I began my career with Kawasaki and now I am returning to where it all started. I am looking forward to working with the team."
Aside from the arrival of an experienced new face, management also confirmed a contract extension for Garrett Marchbanks. The young rider was rewarded with a fresh one-year contract extension following his impressive performances throughout his debut premier class campaign in 2026.
Marchbanks successfully secured sixth place in the final standings of the US Nationals while simultaneously claiming the coveted Rookie of the Year honors in the SuperMotocross World Championship or SMX. Such consistency served as the primary consideration for management to retain him within the main factory garage.
"I am super excited to be back with Kawasaki for 2027," Marchbanks commented regarding his contract extension. "I am super proud of the whole team and the great work they put in this year. We learned a lot over the course of the season and I want to build further upon that."
Meanwhile, the contract of interim replacement rider Cornelius Toendel, who was previously brought in to fill the void left by Sexton's injury, will not be extended by team management. The roster composition for the upcoming year has now been officially locked in featuring a combination of veteran presence and promising young talent.
Dan Fahie, serving as the Kawasaki Racing Senior Manager, shared his perspective regarding this newly formed rider lineup. "We are strongly positioned for 2027, with Garrett returning for his second year and Malcolm joining the team as a new addition," Fahie stated in his official evaluation.
Fahie added that both of his riders possess the necessary talent and capabilities to contend at the sharp end of the 450cc class. "Garrett made good progress this past year and we look forward to building on that foundation. Malcolm brings proven experience and a strong work ethic to the team, making him a great addition to our roster," he concluded.
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