Chase Sexton Leaves Kawasaki: Could KTM, Yamaha or Suzuki Sign Him for 2027?

Chase Sexton has officially parted ways with Monster Energy Kawasaki after just one season, leaving one of motocross racing's biggest names without a confirmed ride for 2027. With KTM, Yamaha and Suzuki all emerging as possible destinations, the former champion faces a major decision about where he can rediscover his best form.

The split was confirmed on October 23, ending a three-year agreement after only its first season. Sexton's time aboard the Kawasaki KX450SR delivered two AMA Supercross victories, at Anaheim 2 and the Salt Lake City finale, but his campaign was interrupted by inconsistent results and a serious injury.

He finished sixth in the 2026 450SX championship before a crash at Thunder Valley left him with a torn ACL, ruling him out of the remaining Pro Motocross rounds and the SuperMotocross playoffs.

Neither Kawasaki nor Sexton has provided a detailed public explanation for the early separation. However, questions about whether the bike suited his riding style have followed the partnership, and the end of the deal has drawn comparisons with Jorge Prado's similarly short spell at Kawasaki.

Now the focus shifts to the rider market. Sexton has already proved he can win both Supercross and outdoor motocross championships, so finding the right technical package and working relationship could be more important than simply joining the most prominent team.

Could Chase Sexton return to KTM?

A reunion with Red Bull KTM Factory Racing looks like one of the most compelling possibilities. Sexton raced for KTM before moving to Kawasaki, meaning he is already familiar with the machinery and the team's way of working.

There is also a reported indication that contact has taken place. Motocross commentator Steve Matthes has discussed a meeting between Sexton and KTM, although there has been no official confirmation of an offer or negotiations reaching an agreement.

KTM's rider plans make this worth watching. With changes to its premier-class line-up, the manufacturer could have reasons to consider another established title contender. Sexton would bring proven speed and championship experience to a programme that wants to remain competitive in both Supercross and outdoor motocross.

Jorge Prado's return to form after leaving Kawasaki for KTM provides an interesting parallel. Prado showed in 2026 that a change of manufacturer can make a substantial difference when a rider finds a package that suits him. That does not mean Sexton would automatically enjoy the same success, but it demonstrates why returning to a familiar bike could be attractive.

The complication is that Sexton and KTM previously went their separate ways. Any reunion would depend on whether both sides believe the relationship can work better this time. Familiarity with the motorcycle is an advantage, but trust, communication and a clear development plan would be just as important.

Our take: KTM could be a logical option if the team can offer Sexton the right role and both parties are comfortable putting the previous split behind them. His knowledge of the bike could reduce the adjustment period compared with starting from scratch on another manufacturer's machine.

Is Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing a serious option?

Yamaha is another name firmly in the conversation. Reports have suggested that Bobby Regan, the influential figure behind Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, could be interested in Sexton's availability.

A factory Yamaha ride would give Sexton access to an established programme and the resources required to fight for wins across the AMA calendar. It could also offer the fresh start he needs after a frustrating year with Kawasaki.

However, a deal would depend on the team's 2027 line-up and where Sexton would fit within its plans. Yamaha has several important rider commitments and developing stars to consider, so signing another championship contender would require a clear decision about roles, priorities and available machinery.

There is also the question of whether Sexton wants to join a large factory operation again or would prefer a different environment after his recent experience. The quality of the team is only part of the equation; how well the rider works with the crew and how quickly they can establish a competitive setup will matter just as much.

At present, Yamaha remains a plausible destination, not a confirmed signing.

Could PRMX offer Sexton a different route with Yamaha?

Rather than joining the factory Star Racing squad, Sexton could potentially consider a Yamaha-supported operation such as PRMX Racing. The team is switching to Yamaha machinery for 2027, creating another possible route if a factory seat does not materialise.

PRMX attracted attention after posting that Kyle Chisholm had been working to get its Yamaha 450 riders dialled in, adding that more news was coming. The timing prompted speculation, but the message did not identify Sexton or confirm that he was involved in the team's plans.

There could be advantages to a smaller operation if the arrangement gave Sexton greater input into testing and bike development. On the other hand, the size of the budget, the level of factory support and the available testing resources would all need careful consideration for a rider whose target is to challenge for championships.

Steve Matthes has also raised the possibility of Sexton running his own team, although that would place a different set of responsibilities on the rider and his management. Building a competitive operation from the ground up would be a substantial undertaking, especially with the next season approaching.

A supported privateer route is therefore an outside possibility rather than an established plan. It would only make sense if Sexton could secure the machinery and resources needed to compete at the front.

Could HEP Suzuki make a move?

Suzuki could enter the picture if an opportunity emerges within the HEP Motorsports programme. The team has already recruited Justin Barcia for 2027, while Ken Roczen's decision about whether to continue racing could influence the availability of another premier-class seat.

Signing Sexton would be a major statement for Suzuki. He has the speed and experience to challenge for race wins, and his arrival would raise expectations for the RM-Z450 programme.

But the situation is less straightforward than a simple vacancy. The team's final rider line-up, Roczen's plans and the competitiveness of its 2027 package all need to be clearer before Suzuki can be considered a leading option.

For Sexton, switching to Suzuki would also mean learning a different motorcycle and working with another team. That challenge may be worthwhile if the package offers the feel and consistency he has been seeking, but there is currently no confirmed indication that a deal is being pursued.

Could Quad Lock Honda bring Sexton back to red?

Honda is another possibility worth keeping on the radar. Sexton previously raced for the factory Honda HRC team, while changes at Quad Lock Honda have fuelled speculation that the satellite organisation could be an alternative destination.

A return to Honda machinery would give Sexton familiarity with a brand he has raced successfully before, although a move to Quad Lock Honda would not be the same as returning to the factory HRC squad.

There is no confirmation that Honda has made an approach. Still, if a suitable role were available, it could offer Sexton another way to reset his career without returning to KTM or joining Yamaha.

Which team makes the most sense for Sexton?

Every option comes with a different balance of familiarity, factory backing and uncertainty. KTM offers the possibility of returning to a bike he already knows, Yamaha could provide a fresh factory environment, while Suzuki's prospects may depend on how its 2027 roster takes shape. PRMX and Quad Lock Honda would offer alternative routes if the larger factory programmes cannot provide the right fit.

My assessment is that the deciding factor should be the motorcycle and the people around it, not simply the badge on the fuel tank. Sexton has already demonstrated that he can win at the highest level. What he needs now is a package he trusts, a team that can translate his feedback into useful development and enough time to prepare properly for the season.

A rushed decision could leave him facing another adjustment period, whereas finding the right environment could put him straight back into the championship conversation. His recovery from the ACL injury and his return to riding will also be important parts of the preparation for 2027.

For now, the KTM, Yamaha and Suzuki links remain speculation, with PRMX and Quad Lock Honda also possibilities being discussed. No destination has been officially announced, and the rider market could change quickly as teams finalise their line-ups.

One thing is certain: Sexton's next move will be one of the most closely watched developments of the off-season. After a difficult year in green, the 2027 season offers him a chance to reset and the team he chooses could determine how quickly he returns to fighting for wins.