Red Bull KTM Factory Racing will expand its SMX 250 operation from one motorcycle to four in 2027, giving the manufacturer one of the youngest and most substantial factory lineups in the class. Ryder DiFrancesco, Daxton Bennick, Julien Beaumer and Sacha Coenen are set to race KTM 250 SX-F FACTORY EDITION motorcycles in AMA Supercross, Pro Motocross and the SMX Finals.

The change brings DiFrancesco and Bennick into KTM’s factory structure after the Husqvarna factory team closes. DiFrancesco, 21, enters the program after a standout 2026 campaign. He finished second in the 250SMX World Championship, placed fourth in the western 250SX standings and ended the 250MX season fifth. His first 250SX podium came at Anaheim 1, followed by more podium results during the outdoor season and the playoffs.

Bennick, 20, finished third in the 250SX East championship standings in 2026 and reached his first 250SMX podium at the opening SMX Playoff round in Columbus. His move also extends a relationship with KTM: he came through the manufacturer’s Orange Brigade program.

Beaumer will stay with the team for a fourth season. A new contract keeps the 20-year-old with KTM through 2027 and beyond; he previously finished runner-up in 250SX West in 2025 before suffering an injury after that season ended. The fourth rider, 19-year-old Sacha Coenen, steps over from the MX2 World Championship after taking third in the 2026 standings and running the red plate earlier in the year.

Nathan Ramsey becomes team manager of the 250 operation and will work alongside 450 manager Ian Harrison. The 450 side features reigning SMX World Champion Jorge Prado and new recruit Lucas Coenen, Sacha’s twin brother. KTM’s expanded 250 team will begin racing when the 2027 AMA Supercross Championship opens in Anaheim on January 9.