Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing has added Casey Cochran to its 250 program for the 2027 SuperMotocross World Championship season. The multi-year agreement gives the 20-year-old American a factory ride on the new Yamaha YZ250F, with Cochran continuing to race under number 49.

The deal resolves an uncertain period for the Portsmouth, Virginia rider. Cochran had been part of the KTM Group’s racing structure through GasGas and Husqvarna since 2021, but Rockstar Energy Husqvarna’s confirmation of its withdrawal from the series last May left him without a 2027 seat. Yamaha now gives him a place in an established 250 operation as he prepares for the next SMX campaign.

An exceptional amateur record, followed by a disrupted pro career

Cochran brings a substantial amateur résumé to the team. He is a six-time Loretta Lynn’s AMA Amateur National Motocross champion, and in 2023 he concluded that phase of his career by winning the 250SX Futures Championship and the AMA Youth Rider of the Year award. He made his professional debut at that year’s Budds Creek National.

The move into the professional ranks has been less smooth. Injuries have affected Cochran every season since his AMA Pro Motocross debut in 2023, limiting his opportunities to build momentum. He has nevertheless taken an overall podium at the 2024 Spring Creek National, while his 250SX record currently stands at four starts. Remaining healthy will be a central part of converting his amateur speed into a sustained professional campaign on the YZ250F.

Jensen Hendler, Yamaha’s 250 team manager, said Cochran has stood out to him for years. Hendler believes the rider’s talent and work ethic, combined with Yamaha’s programme, provide the ingredients for success. Cochran becomes the sixth member of the Monster Energy Yamaha Star Racing line-up, joining reigning 250SX East and 250MX champion Cole Davies, Kayden Minear, Caden Dudney, Landen Gordon and Pierce Brown.

The 2027 season begins on January 9 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California, with the opening round of Monster Energy AMA Supercross. That race will start Cochran’s latest attempt to turn a decorated amateur career and a stop-start beginning in the professional ranks into a consistent 250SX presence.