Justin Cooper withdraws from 2026 SMX Playoffs, citing 'limited time to practice'
Justin Cooper was the No. 1 seed entering the 2025 Playoffs, but slid to fifth in the final standings.
Justin Cooper has decided to withdraw from the 2026 SuperMotocross Playoffs due to limited time for practice following a crash in the Hangtown Motocross Classic that left him with a concussion. Cooper returned briefly for the Unadilla National but missed the final two rounds. Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing’s 450 Team Manager Wil Hahn expressed disappointment, stating that Cooper's best decision was to focus on the 2027 season.
Cooper had entered the 2025 SMX Playoffs as the No. 1 seed but finished fifth in the standings after scoring 11th, eighth, and fifth in the three rounds. Despite expressing regret for missing the SMX playoffs, Cooper emphasized that he needs more preparation on the bike to compete at the level he believes he is capable of. He plans to concentrate on regaining full fitness so he can compete fiercely at the front in 2027.
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