Jay Marmont will be behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz during much of the MX Nationals season. Image: Alex Gobert.

Monster Energy Kawasaki turned up to this week’s official launch of the Monster Energy MX Nationals, Australian Motocross Championship, in style after sealing a deal with Centenary Classic Mercedes-Benz during the off-season.

Team riders Jay Marmont, Billy Mackenzie and Kade Mosig will drive Mercedes-Benz vehicles to all major events in 2012, in a unique partnership that further outlines the professionalism of Monster Energy Kawasaki team.

Brad Lipke, sales manager of the Brisbane-based Mercedes-Benz dealership, told MotoOnline.com.au that it was an ideal program that has been put in place for this year.

“We looked at the Monster Energy Kawasaki team because a lot of people are involved in motocross and many clients of ours have that interest,” Lipke explained. “The team is such a professional outfit – the bikes look good, they’re fit and they signed Jay this year.

“I saw it as something we could get some mileage out of, so we supply support cars to take to the rounds for exposure. Troy had myself and my son as guests in the corporate Monster hospitality at Ipswich and we had a ball.

“It was that, as well as the signing of Jay Marmont, that sealed it for me. We thought we need to get onboard, it’s all trial and error, but we’ll see what we can do for eachother.”

Marmont at the Monster Energy MX Nationals launch in Melbourne. Image: Alex Gobert.

Monster Energy Kawasaki team manager Troy Carroll is pleased to welcome yet another quality sponsor to the team for 2012.

“It’s great to have Centenary Classic Mercedes-Benz onboard for 2012,” Carroll added. “It’s really positive to have riders arriving in nice cars when they are at the races, and also further displays the professionalism of the team and what we are aiming to achieve.

“Brad and the company have been very good to work with and we thank them for helping us out, so we look forward to a successful future together.”

The MX Nationals series will commence at Conondale in Queensland on Sunday, 1 April, where Marmont and Mosig will make their official debut for the team alongside the returning Mackenzie.