Image: MXN.

Motorcycling Australia (MA) has revealed Victorian Bailey Malkiewicz will replace former 65cc world champion Caleb Grothues at this year’s FIM Junior Motocross World Championship in Tartu, Estonia, on 30 July.

Grothues, who is currently contesting the European Motocross Championship in the EMX250 category with Team Diga-Procross, has been forced to withdraw from the event due to team commitments.

His absence has opened up an opportunity for the youthful Malkiewicz to join the remaining Australian team members, who will be endeavouring to defend the Team title that was claimed in 2016.

Team manager Mark Willingham expressed his confidence in the team representing Australia, stating he believes there’s a good mix of both local and European-based riders in the seven-man squad.

“Our team is very strong and are confident about the possibilities at this year’s event,” said Willingham. “With Australia’s previous success, many riders registered their interest to be part of the Australian team. If you look at several riders’ careers after the WJMX, it’s obvious that it’s a great stepping-stone for future possibilities.

“I feel that we are in a really good place this year, as we are able to have a mixture of riders based here in Australia and based in Europe. It’s definitely important to make sure junior riders from Australia are able to represent their country well, while also learning all they can from the experience.”

Mason Semmens will join Malkiewicz in the 125cc class, while 2014 65cc world champion Jett Lawrence, Alex Larwood and Cody Chittick will contest the 85cc division, with Jet Alsop and Kayden Minear completing the team in the 65cc category.