Online Reporter
Collin Matiza
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ONE of Zimbabwe’s top junior motocross riders Riley Rocher is set to plunge into his first major international competition when he takes part in the South African leg of this year’s FIM Motocross (MXGP) World Championship.
The FIM Motocross World Championship is officially returning to South Africa for the first time in 18 years with this Round 11 of the season scheduled for July 4-5, at the Terra Topia track in Johannesburg.
And young Zimbabwean rider Rocher will be among an array of international riders, drawn from across the globe, who will be showcasing their skills during this two-day event.
This is not just an event.
It’s the return of a continent to the world stage. This historic event marks the sport’s comeback to the African continent, bringing back world-renowned riders who include Frenchman Romain Febvre, Dutch racer Jeffrey Herlings, and Slovenia’s Tim Gajser. Beyond the racing, the weekend will feature fan zones, live entertainment, brand activations, and food stalls.
And young Rocher’s father, Byran, told Zimpapers Sports Hub yesterday that his 16-year-old son has received a wildcard to rub shoulders with these top professional riders during next month’s MXGP South Africa 2026 in Johannesburg.
Riley has a decorated track record in the sport, including winning the 125cc African Championship in 2025 and holding previous titles such as the Zimbabwe 85cc Champion.
At just 16 years old, the Zimbabwean motocross sensation is preparing to take the biggest step of his young racing career after being selected for a wildcard entry into the MXGP event in Johannesburg.
The MXGP World Championship is regarded as the pinnacle of motocross racing – the highest level of international competition in the sport.
Often described as the “Olympics of motocross”, it brings together the world’s best riders, teams and manufacturers from across the globe.
Riley’s journey to this moment has been built on years of dedication, training and success.
The young Zimbabwean rider has already achieved an incredible milestone by becoming a five-time Zimbabwe national champion, while also claiming African championship honours in 2025.
His achievements have earned him recognition beyond Zimbabwe’s borders and have opened the door to compete against some of the fastest professional motocross riders in the world.
The MXGP wildcard opportunity will see Riley line up alongside international stars as he steps up into the highly competitive MX2 Class – a category featuring some of the world’s most talented professional riders.
The challenge ahead is enormous, but for Riley it represents the next stage of a dream that started on local tracks in Zimbabwe and has grown into an international racing journey.
The 2026 season has already been a successful one for Riley, as he currently sits third in the South African National Motocross Championship, competing against some of the strongest riders in the region.
“For a young Zimbabwean rider, getting the opportunity to compete on this stage is something special,” says Riley’s team. “The goal is to learn, compete, represent Zimbabwe proudly and show that African riders can compete at the highest level.”
The MXGP of South Africa will showcase the world’s best motocross talent at Terra Topia Motocross Track in Johannesburg.
Riley’s racing journey has been supported by a group of partners who share his ambition of taking Zimbabwean motocross onto the international stage.
“A special thank you goes to Better Brands Racing, Surge Energy, Fuchs Zimbabwe and ZLG Water for their continued support and belief in Riley’s journey.
“Their commitment has helped provide the platform for Riley to compete at national, African and now world championship level,” Riley’s team said.
From a young rider chasing laps on Zimbabwean tracks to a five-time national champion preparing to race the world’s elite, Riley’s story is one of ambition, determination and the pursuit of excellence.
MXGP South Africa 2026 marks the long-awaited return of the FIM Motocross World Championship to African soil after an 18-year absence.
Set against the dynamic landscape of Johannesburg, this landmark event will bring the world’s fastest off-road motorcycle racers, factory teams, and global fans together for a high-adrenaline weekend of elite competition, culture, and entertainment.
Some of the best riders on the planet will compete across a purpose-built track designed to challenge speed, endurance, and technical mastery.
With millions of global viewers and international media coverage, MXGP South Africa positions the country as a key player in the global motorsport arena.
