Image: Octopi Media.

A late shuffle at Team Australia will see Hunter Lawrence transfer across to the MXGP class and Jett Lawrence become the Open class entry in this weekend’s 2024 Motocross of Nations (MXoN) at Matterley Basin.

The all-Team Honda HRC Progressive rider line-up – inclusive of Australian MX1 champion Kyle Webster on a US-specification factory CRF250R in MX2 – initially had Jett in MXGP and Hunter in the Open ranks.

However, the final entry list confirms that the high-profile brothers have effectively traded roles, as Hunter Lawrence will lead the team in the MXGP division and wear the number four when practice officially commences on Saturday. Jett, meanwhile, will race with number six and faces back-to-back motos on Sunday.

“One thing I’ve learnt about the Motocross of Nations over the years is it that it doesn’t give out its rewards easily,” said American-based Team Australia manager, Michael Byrne.

“The one thing that gives me great confidence is that our riders are fit, full of confidence, amazingly talented and have phenomenal work ethics – traits that go hand in hand with MXoN success. I’m confident if they produce their absolute best, it’ll go a long way towards Team Australia winning the Chamberlain Trophy.”

It’s unclear if the decision to promote Hunter Lawrence to the MXGP seat is strategic or otherwise, which will see him feature in race one and race three of the weekend.

In addition to the Lawrences, Australia’s move to place its national 450 champion Webster on a 250 for the Nations is also in rare territory, as the trio target a first-ever victory for the team in the international event. He has spent the past month based in Florida training at the Lawrence’s facility while preparing on the MX2 bike.