Key Takeaways from the 2026 Anaheim 1 Supercross Event
The much-anticipated Anaheim 1 event marked a rocky start to the 2026 Supercross season for several racers. Notably, Chase Sexton debuted his new Monster Energy Kawasaki but struggled throughout the day.
Chase Sexton’s Challenges at Anaheim 1
Chase Sexton excelled early in the day, securing the top position in qualifying by a significant six-tenths of a second. However, the situation deteriorated during the heat race when Sexton crashed while chasing leader Ken Roczen on the over/under bridge. He managed to remount and finish fifth, but the incident affected his performance in the main event.
In the main, Sexton started from 14th position and attempted to move up the ranks. Despite his efforts, he encountered another crash and went off track several times, ultimately finishing in eighth place. This result fell short of expectations for both Sexton and his team. Furthermore, his teammate Garrett Marchbanks missed qualifying for the main event altogether during his 450SX debut.
Max Anstie’s Triumph in the 250SX Class
On a brighter note for Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing, Max Anstie secured a victory in the 250SX class. Anstie, starting strong, navigated past competitors including Chance Hymas and Cameron McAdoo, asserting himself by the midway point of the race. This win followed a solid pre-season and marked the second consecutive year he started his 250SX Championship with a win.
- Anstie’s last four season-opening results: 2-2-1-1.
- He is now the oldest winner in the history of the 125/250SX classes in AMA Supercross.
Notable Performances: Hymas and DiFrancesco
Chance Hymas, riding for Honda HRC Progressive, claimed his first dry 250SX podium with a commendable second-place finish. Previously, he secured his first win in challenging conditions during the Foxborough event last season. Following a significant ACL injury, Hymas refocused his training regimen and performed exceptionally well at Anaheim 1.
Ryder DiFrancesco also made headlines, leading the race for six laps and capturing his first professional trophy with the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna team. Both Hymas and DiFrancesco are striving to prove their capabilities as serious championship contenders this season.
Competitive Landscape in the 450SX Class
The 450SX class continues to showcase an increasingly competitive environment with numerous teams and riders. Notable non-factory support riders included AMA Arenacross Champion Vince Friese and Mitchell Harrison, who both qualified for the main event. This year, his efforts were notable as Friese managed to qualify through his heat race while Harrison earned the last spot in a challenging last chance qualifier.
The depth of talent this season suggests an exciting Supercross series ahead, with upcoming rounds promising intense competition among established and emerging riders alike.
