Image: Foremost Media.

The Fox Australian Supercross Championship is set to feature an 85cc class at all three rounds of the 2023 season that will be recognised as the ‘CR22 Cup’, with Chad Reed returning as an ambassador for the series.

According to Reed, who honed his supercross craft as a junior prior to embarking on an iconic international career, the role of developing the future of riders in Australia is pivotal in enabling riders to learn the correct techniques from a young age.

“I’m honoured to head back to Australia, play a role supporting the Fox Australian Supercross Championship and put my name to a race that meant everything to me as a kid,” said Reed. “Racing the 80cc class was pivotal for my career and I’m so happy the AUSX events are giving these kids a huge opportunity on the main stage in 2023. Kids aged 12-to-14 are full of enthusiasm and want to learn – the CR22 Cup is a great way to support this age group and give them something to strive towards.

“This is an important move in developing the future of SX – learning proper techniques early on is a great foundation for any rider and will help better the sport in the long-term. The end-game is to create a pathway for kids, while supporting skilled, smart and safe supercross riders who can progress to take on Australia’s best and then, ultimately, on the world stage. And I love that Adelaide will get to enjoy the first one, it’s a special place given it was my first supercross ride on an 80cc – it’s pretty special to be back and involved.”

Championship director Kelly Bailey added: “We were thrilled to announce the return of the 85cc racing category at the 2023 Australian Supercross Championship and it adds another level of excitement to have Chad back and involved.

“We stand by our focus and commitment to nurture young talent, and with Chad’s name and involvement at the inaugural 85cc event, it further promotes the class, opportunity for young riders and has the ability to empower the next generation to chase their dreams. Equally having Chad back involved in the Australian championship is hugely exciting – he was incredibly popular with fans across the board last year, so we are delighted to have him involved at Adelaide.”

The gates will drop on the 2023 Fox Australian Supercross Championship at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on 7 October, followed by McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on 11 November, and concluding with Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium on 24 November alongside the final round of the World Supercross Championship (WSX).