Image: Simon Cudby.

Former AMA supercross and motocross regular and current team manager of the Rocky Mountain AVT/MC KTM outfit Michael Byrne has been promoted to the role of team manager role for Australia’s 2018 Monster Energy FIM Motocross of Nations (MXoN) squad.

The seven-time Team Australia member will take over from Gary Benn, who’ll continue to assist Byrne after being at the helm of the country’s efforts for a number of years.

“I always loved riding for the green and gold and now to be named team manager for Team Australia is just such a privilege and honour,” Byrne commented. “I don’t think that a lot of things will change as far duties go. Gary and myself have been sharing duties pretty well the last couple years and it’s been working out good. Gary will be happy that he doesn’t have to do all the media stuff now though [laughs].”

The 2018 edition is set be hosted at RedBud in the United States of America on 6-7 October, where the worlds best riders will represent their nations for the coveted Chamberlain Trophy.

It’s unclear who will be selected to represent Australia this year, however applications have just opened for riders looking to be reviewed for the three-man squad. Two-time Australian motocross champion Dean Ferris confirmed earlier this year he won’t be be available for Team Australian selection in 2018.