Source: Supplied.

Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing has confirmed defending Lucas Oil AMA Pro Motocross 250MX champion Zach Osborne will sit out the remainder of the season after being sidelined with shoulder injury sustained last weekend at Thunder Valley.

It’s the third major injury for the Husqvarna outfit, with Dean Wilson sidelined for the year while recently crowned supercross champion Jason Anderson injured his leg in a training incident, prompting the team to draft in Phil Nicoletti to contest the premier class for the remaining rounds.

“I am extremely bummed to say the least,” said Osborne, who’s won three-consecutive titles between supercross and motocross in the 250 division. “This fourth consecutive championship aboard the FC 250 was one that I wanted bad.

“It’s almost surreal that it has come to an end, but I know everything happens for a reason. I’ll use this time to prepare mentally and physically for the challenge of my first year in the 450 class. I am excited to get my recovery started and move onto the next step of my career.”

Nicoletti, a former long-time fill-in rider for the JGR-operated Yoshimura Suzuki Factory Racing Team, spoke of the opportunity, stating he’s looking forward to showcasing his potential on the factory-backed machine.

“I am happy to have the opportunity to finish out the Pro Motocross season with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team,” Nicoletti commented. “I look forward to getting on the bike and showing everyone what I have. Thank you to everyone backing me, see you at the High Point national.”

The Pro Motocross championship will return to action on 16 June at High Point in Pennsylvania.