Monster Energy Kawasaki announced on social media that Chase Sexton will miss Round 8, the Daytona Supercross, after a practice crash that left him with hip and lower-back injuries. The team provided limited medical detail and no firm timetable; one post added he will be out “at least one round,” while other updates reiterated there is no return date.

Cycle News described the announcement as sudden and said missing Daytona is almost certain to end Sexton’s title hopes given the timing and his position in the points. Sexton, the 2023 450 Supercross champion, is currently fifth in the 450SX standings with one main-event win (Anaheim 2) — his only podium so far — and a season average finish of fifth. He trails points leader Hunter Lawrence by 27 points. This season’s reported finishes include 8th at Anaheim 1, 4th at San Diego, 5th at Houston, 7th at Glendale, 5th at Seattle and 6th at Arlington.

The absence follows Sexton’s high-profile move to Monster Energy Kawasaki in the off-season and would be his first missed Supercross since Seattle in March 2022. Kawasaki did not name a replacement; Garrett Marchbanks will be the team’s sole rider entered at Daytona. Team personnel, fans and media are awaiting further updates on Sexton’s recovery and possible return.

Sources